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The 10 Best Archaeology Tours in Easter Island, Easter Island
Located in the South Pacific more than 2,000 miles off the Chilean coast, Easter Island’s not the easiest place to reach. (If you’re interested, the easiest access is by air from Santiago or Tahiti.) But isolation has helped preserve the 1,500-year-old mysterious congregation of volcanic rock sculptures (maoi) that’s the island’s biggest claim to fame. After exploring the unique landscape, relax on an uncrowded beach and ponder one of the most mysterious places on Earth.
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1. Moai Rise and Fall: Full Day Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Moai Rise and Fall: Full Day Private Tour is an archaeological field trip that explores the meaning, inception, creation and destruction of the megalithic statues of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). By visiting several key sites, the whole story of the moai comes to life through the explanations of a local expert with academic background. This field trip is based on scientific, ethnographic and historical evidence, supplemented by a deep knowledge of our oral tradition. RPS Experiences is the tourism wing of the Rapanui Pioneers Society, a research and educational organization formed by thoroughly experienced members. Our slow tours go against the fast-paced group tours to make sure that our Rapanui culture is well represented. We visit the sites during the hours of best light and avoiding (as much as possible) the busy hours, and we take our time on each site to get the full experience. This tour is also customizable depending on our travelers' special interests. Private service only.
Inclusions: Picnic lunch at Rano Raraku, Reusable water bottle
Exclusions: National Park Ticket is required to take this field trip.
Reviewed By keithkQ2101FZ
This was an amazing half day. Christian really knows how to deliver a thoughtful and insightful description of the Rise and Fall of the Birdman Cult. I couldn't have hoped for a better experience. It was all I had hoped for.
2. The Birdcult: Half Day Private Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
The Birdcult: Half Day Private Tour is an archaeological field trip based on scientific, ethnographic and historical evidence suplemented by a deep knowledge of our oral tradition. This tour is also customizable depending on our travelers' special interests. RPS Experiences is the tourism wing of the Rapanui Pioneers Society, a research and educational organization formed by thoroughly experienced members. Our guides are scholars or local experts with a vast trajectory working in tourism and experience with some of the top companies in Rapa Nui and abroad. Our slow tours go against the fast-paced group tours to make sure that our Rapanui culture is well represented. We visit the sites during the hours of best light and avoiding (as much as possible) the busy hours, and we take our time on each site to experience them fully. Private service only. Limited availability.
Inclusions: In-person guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation
Exclusions: The National Park Ticket is required to do this field trip.
Reviewed By keithkQ2101FZ
Christian was an outstanding guide. We hiked around Poike Peninsula for a full day. Christian provided fascinating insights into the local history and customs. It was exactly what I was looking for and the highlight of my two week Patagonia - Rapa Nui trip. If you enjoy hiking this is the trip to book and Christian is the guide to have. Thanks for the memories Christian! Take care brother.
3. Private Tour: Full-Day Easter Island Archeological sites
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Providing a more personalized experience discover and learn about the mystery of the Moai and its construction on the hands of a professional tour guide, who will show you around the archeological sites of this unique culture in the world. On a 7 hours tour visit the quarry of Rano Raraku, the place where the moai were carved and transported to their ahus, Ahu Tongariki the fascinating 15 standing moai platform, Te Pito Kura, the navel of the world and so many others archeological sites related to moai and the and the Rapa Nui people and culture.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Entrance fees (USD 80 per person), Lunch, Food and drinks, Gratuities, Tour not available for cruise ship passengers
Reviewed By JJ O
We took a full day tour with Sebastián. It was brilliant! The Guide Sebastián is from Rapa Nui and so was able to combine the factual history aspects of the island with enthusiasm and knowledge of the current culture. He knew everything about each of the sites we visited. On top of that, he is involved with the restoration and preservation on the island so gave us more background knowledge on the places we visited. He answered every question we had and showed us photos and pictures on a kindle as we went along (it was great to use the kindle rather than a phone or tablet so the sun didn't created a glare - just an indication that he'd actually thought about the guest experience rather than just going through the motions of his usual tour). The tour We got picked up from our hotel in a 4x4 at 9am and travelled around the island for the day. It's worth taking some snacks for the car as it's a pretty full on tour from 9am until 3pm. Take water and sunscreen as well. We told Sebastián that we only had one day on the island and he immediately adapted the tour to cover the sites he thought would be most important and most interesting. We were very grateful for this as we would have missed out on visiting Orongo otherwise. We started at a restored traditional village. We were the first ones there - even before the staff. I was a bit skeptical of this part of the tour but it laid the foundations for the entire day so was important to see - for me, that's the difference between having a professional tour guide and doing a DIY tour. We then visited Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, Anakena Beach, Ahu Nau Nau and Orongo (in that order). See my photos for which site is which. We had plenty of time at each of them - not rushed and not bored / waiting around either. For me, the highlight was Rano Raraku and it was great to be one of the first people there. The customer service KavaKava tours were great when booking the tour. Alejandra is very responsive and helpful. We asked Sebastián to take some photos of us during our tour and he was able to send these on within about 5 minutes of us asking when we got home! Summary Our experience on Easter Island was fantastic. If you are wondering whether to get a private tour then I would recommend doing so and I cannot recommend KavaKava tours enough. They were brilliant!
4. Orongo, Tangata Manu Ceremonial Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
On this tour, We will visit 3 must-see places on the island such as Vinapu, Rano Kau Volcano and the ceremonial village of Orongo.
Inclusions: English and Spanish speaking guide
Exclusions: Gratuities, Easter Island Entrance fee, Pick up or drop off from Explora or Altiplanico Hoteles
Reviewed By Relax50012669582
A short and easy walk from the parking lot reveals this stunning sight. Even prettier (because of the waterfall and river) than Japan's Mt. Fuji.
5. The Magic of Easter Island Program 4 days 3 nights
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
The magic of Easter Island will surprise you when you arrive, a guide will wait for you at the airport to depart with your itinerary. Upon arrival at the hotel you can sleep or enjoy the pool, we recommend rest before starting the tour, remember that it is about 5 hours flight more or less from Santiago de Chile. The days that come to enjoy are 4, a perfect place to ignore and find peace, one of the most visited places in America, including transfers, hotels, tours in addition to a reception at the hotel with a flower necklace. , everything you need to enjoy the mystery of the island and its surrounding beaches, volcanoes, statues of Moai and the incredible sacred places of the ancestors to visit. Finally, a complete vision of the island will be taken of its people and its culture, a unique experience that you will not forget.
Inclusions: Lunch, 3 nights accommodation, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Round-trip shared transfer, Airport reception with flower necklace, Tour Orongo, Full day tour Akahanga , Rano rarku , Tongariki , Tepito kura , Ahu nau nau , Anakena, anakena beach , papi nua place volcano
Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified, Air ticket
Reviewed By publiob2018
We had a wonderful time with Claudio. He is a passionate, knowledgeable guide that made the experience a lot of fun. He was flexible and patient and he always made sure that we were having a lot of fun — and we did! We look forward to going back to Chile and when we do, we will surely ask Claudio to accompany us again. It was an unforgettable experience. Thank you!!!
6. Private Tour: Full-Day Easter Island Birdman Cult
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Learn about the last stage of Easter Island before evangelization. The Ceremonial village of O'rongo was the scene where the bird man or Tangata Manu was rammed every year. Visit the crater of the Rano Kau volcano and other archaeological sites left behind such as Tahai and Ahu ‘A kivi .
Inclusions: Private transportation, Bottled water
Exclusions: National Park Ticket is required to take this tour
Reviewed By JJ O
We took a full day tour with Sebastián. It was brilliant! The Guide Sebastián is from Rapa Nui and so was able to combine the factual history aspects of the island with enthusiasm and knowledge of the current culture. He knew everything about each of the sites we visited. On top of that, he is involved with the restoration and preservation on the island so gave us more background knowledge on the places we visited. He answered every question we had and showed us photos and pictures on a kindle as we went along (it was great to use the kindle rather than a phone or tablet so the sun didn't created a glare - just an indication that he'd actually thought about the guest experience rather than just going through the motions of his usual tour). The tour We got picked up from our hotel in a 4x4 at 9am and travelled around the island for the day. It's worth taking some snacks for the car as it's a pretty full on tour from 9am until 3pm. Take water and sunscreen as well. We told Sebastián that we only had one day on the island and he immediately adapted the tour to cover the sites he thought would be most important and most interesting. We were very grateful for this as we would have missed out on visiting Orongo otherwise. We started at a restored traditional village. We were the first ones there - even before the staff. I was a bit skeptical of this part of the tour but it laid the foundations for the entire day so was important to see - for me, that's the difference between having a professional tour guide and doing a DIY tour. We then visited Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, Anakena Beach, Ahu Nau Nau and Orongo (in that order). See my photos for which site is which. We had plenty of time at each of them - not rushed and not bored / waiting around either. For me, the highlight was Rano Raraku and it was great to be one of the first people there. The customer service KavaKava tours were great when booking the tour. Alejandra is very responsive and helpful. We asked Sebastián to take some photos of us during our tour and he was able to send these on within about 5 minutes of us asking when we got home! Summary Our experience on Easter Island was fantastic. If you are wondering whether to get a private tour then I would recommend doing so and I cannot recommend KavaKava tours enough. They were brilliant!
7. Poīke Peninsula: Full Day Private Hike
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Poīke Peninsula: Full Day Private Hike is an archaeological field trip that visits the mysterious Eastern headland of Rapa Nui. The aim is to explore the desolation of this area, riddled with legends and unique archaeological traits that was abandoned by its human residents more than 600 years ago. This field trip is based on scientific, ethnographic and historical evidence suplemented by a deep knowledge of our oral tradition. RPS Experiences is the tourism wing of the Rapanui Pioneers Society, a research and educational organization formed by thoroughly experienced members. Hiking experience recommended. Private service only.
Inclusions: We include a reusable water bottle., A picnic meal is included
Exclusions: National Park Ticket not included
Reviewed By keithkQ2101FZ
This was an amazing half day. Christian really knows how to deliver a thoughtful and insightful description of the Rise and Fall of the Birdman Cult. I couldn't have hoped for a better experience. It was all I had hoped for.
8. Private Tour: 2 Half Days & 1 Full Day
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Maximize your time on this 2 half days & 1 full day tours combination. If you arrive on a midday flight and leave on the third day this program is for you ! Start exploring the island right upon you arrive at Easter Island. See major sites of Easter Island Private guide for a more personalized experience Learn more about the fascinating Rapa Nui history
Inclusions: Lunch, Private transportation, Professional guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: National Park Ticket, Tour not available for cruise ship passengers
Reviewed By JJ O
We took a full day tour with Sebastián. It was brilliant! The Guide Sebastián is from Rapa Nui and so was able to combine the factual history aspects of the island with enthusiasm and knowledge of the current culture. He knew everything about each of the sites we visited. On top of that, he is involved with the restoration and preservation on the island so gave us more background knowledge on the places we visited. He answered every question we had and showed us photos and pictures on a kindle as we went along (it was great to use the kindle rather than a phone or tablet so the sun didn't created a glare - just an indication that he'd actually thought about the guest experience rather than just going through the motions of his usual tour). The tour We got picked up from our hotel in a 4x4 at 9am and travelled around the island for the day. It's worth taking some snacks for the car as it's a pretty full on tour from 9am until 3pm. Take water and sunscreen as well. We told Sebastián that we only had one day on the island and he immediately adapted the tour to cover the sites he thought would be most important and most interesting. We were very grateful for this as we would have missed out on visiting Orongo otherwise. We started at a restored traditional village. We were the first ones there - even before the staff. I was a bit skeptical of this part of the tour but it laid the foundations for the entire day so was important to see - for me, that's the difference between having a professional tour guide and doing a DIY tour. We then visited Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, Anakena Beach, Ahu Nau Nau and Orongo (in that order). See my photos for which site is which. We had plenty of time at each of them - not rushed and not bored / waiting around either. For me, the highlight was Rano Raraku and it was great to be one of the first people there. The customer service KavaKava tours were great when booking the tour. Alejandra is very responsive and helpful. We asked Sebastián to take some photos of us during our tour and he was able to send these on within about 5 minutes of us asking when we got home! Summary Our experience on Easter Island was fantastic. If you are wondering whether to get a private tour then I would recommend doing so and I cannot recommend KavaKava tours enough. They were brilliant!
9. Private Tour: Full-Day Easter Island Highlights
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
Visit the most important highlights of Easter Island during this 7-hour private tour. Explore the famous megalithic statues, while your guide teaches you about this fascinating culture with incredible legends about the island. Stop at the Rano Kau crater and relax on Anakena beach, one of the most beautiful places of Easter Island. Enjoy a stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off service on your special day to immerse yourself in the Rapa Nui culture.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Professional guide, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: National Park entrance fees ticket ($80 USD), Gratuities, Food and drinks, Tour not available for cruise ship passengers
Reviewed By H9821VJmarkp
My guide, Sebastian, did an outstanding job explaining the culture, history and anthropology of the island and of there Rapa Nui people. Rapa Nui himself, his passion for his people - on both a personal and a scholarly level - made every stop a fascinating window into the story of the island. I can't recommend KavaKava highly enough.
10. Private Full-Day Easter Island Moai Monuments Tour
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 10 reviews
Enjoy your very own private tour of epic proportions as you drive around the main sites of the mysterious and world-famous Easter Island, and its hundreds of scattered Moai stone statues. On your 7-hour private tour, visit amazing sites both restored and unrestored. Relax and take it all in, as your professional guide brings it to life with a fascinating, thought-provoking commentary including all the history, culture and modern-day politics which make up this extraordinary place.
Inclusions: Private tour, Professional driver/guide, Transport by private vehicle, Hotel pickup and hotel/port drop-off
Exclusions: Gratuities, National Park entrance fees ($90 USD per person), Food and drinks
Reviewed By 716sachink
I had communicated with this travel company several months prior to my actual travel to Easter Island. I was provided with a customized 2 and 1/2 day itinerary by the representative. When I was ready to confirm and make payment for the same, there was no communication whatsoever, despite several emails. I had to eventually go with another travel company, which provided exceptionally great customer service right from my first communication. I will be providing a separate review on stargazing tour for which customer service was very professional.
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