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Private Tour: Easter Island's Birdman Cult and Archaeological Sites Exploration
5.0
3 Ratings
Orongo
Discover the final phase of Easter Island prior to its introduction to Christianity. Experience the sacred settlement of O’rongo, which played host to the annual crowning of the bird man or Tangata Manu. Explore the Rano Kau volcano crater and additional historical remnants like Tahai and Ahu
‘A kivi.
Duration:
6 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Orongo - Orongo village is situated on one flank of the Rano Kau volcano crater. It’s one of the two primary locations on the island since it was the site where the Birdman ritual was held.
- Rano Kau - Nestled on the southwestern edge of the island, the crater of this volcano stands as one of Rapa Nui’s most stunning natural vistas. Spanning 1.5 kilometers in diameter, this crater is the largest repository of native plant species on Rapa Nui and its lake once played a crucial role as a freshwater resource in bygone eras.
- Ahu Vinapu - This archaeological highlight is distinguished by the exceptional craftsmanship of Rapa Nui’s ancient stonemasons. There are speculative theories regarding the construction of this initial platform, suggesting a possible link to Incan architectural techniques.
- Ahu Tahai - This ceremonial complex was rejuvenated in 1974 by the American archaeologist Dr. William Mulloy. Tahai comprises three main ahu structures aligned from north to south: Ko Te Riku (with restored eyes), Tahai, and Vai Ure. Due to its closeness to the town, it is a favored spot for capturing sunset imagery.
- Puna Pau - This is the quarry where the red volcanic tuff was sourced for fashioning the Pu Kao or the moai’s topknots. The site contains 23 cylindrical topknot prototypes in the initial stages of sculpting, which made them easier to transport to the ahu. From here, one can also enjoy an exceptional view of Hanga Roa village.
- Ahu Akivi - An unusual ceremonial platform that is not situated along the coastline. Its seven moais were re-erected by archaeologists William Mulloy and Gonzalo Figueroa, in collaboration with the Rapa Nui community. These statues are uniquely aligned with astronomical markers and face the direction of the setting sun.
What's Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
What's Not Included
- National Park Ticket is required to take this tour
Location
Orongo
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(3 Ratings)
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1 star
Nanbyron
Nov 22, 2022
Toke and Sebastian are the Bomb! - Our guides Toke and Sebastian were amazing!! Not only did we feel at home and like family, they were so knowledgeable on the Rapa Nui culture, history and traditions. We were travelling during my sister's birthday and they even had birthday gifts lined up making the tour so personal. We spent about 4 days in total mostly with Toke and we could not have asked for a better guide and companion. We left Easter Island with our hearts full or love and stomachs full of food. Thank you to Toke and Sebastian for making our trip to Rapa Nui so memorable!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Arncliffegirl
Feb 4, 2020
An unparalleled experience - life highlight. - We can’t recommend KavaKava Tours enough. Spent 2 full days, first with Sebastian “In Search of the Maoi” and then Tokerau on the Birdman Cult tour.
We look for local knowledge and experience when we travel, and KavaKava delivered at an exceptional level.
Both our guides were really nice people, which made the day exceptionally pleasant. They were so engaging, we loved discussing with them the various theories about events on Rapa Nui. We gained invaluable insight from oral traditions as well as western archaeology and theorising.
Thankyou to KavaKava for making our experience one of our life highlights.
Sally and Piero
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dofekus
Jul 9, 2019
Amazing experience and wonderful guide - The most amazing tour - I had two full days - with Soledad as my guide. She is simply the best guide I ever had and with no hesitation wholheartedly recommend to anyone willing to learn as much as possible about Rapa Nui to spend a day or two as I did with her.
Muchas gracias!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
