Rapa Nui underground: Half Day Private Trekking

Description
Embark on a captivating four-hour trekking tour to explore the fascinating caves of Easter Island. Discover how the Rapanui people utilized these caves as homes, temporary shelters, burial sites, and secret hideaways. Accompanied by a private guide, you will venture off the beaten path to visit the island’s most significant touristic caves, experiencing them from both inside and out. Along the way, gain insight into the island’s volcanic origins and unique geographical formations..
Ana Te Pahu: This extensive lava tube system, the largest cave on Rapa Nui, consists of four interconnected underground chambers. Its vast size made it an ideal shelter in ancient times, as evidenced by the presence of several umu (traditional earth ovens) used for cooking. Known as the "Cave of the Bananas," Ana Te Pahu is surrounded by an abundance of banana trees at its entrance.
Ana Te Pora: A volcanic cave located approximately 100 meters from the parking area. In ancient times, it served both as a shelter and a ceremonial site, highlighting its historical significance.
Ana Kakenga: This volcanic cave was formed by lava flowing into the sea, leaving behind two openings or "windows" overlooking the cliff. Also called the "Cave of the Two Windows," it extends for about 50 meters and was used as a kionga (refuge) in ancient times.
Ahu Te Peu: An area of great archaeological value, Ahu Te Peu remains in its original, unrestored state, offering a glimpse into the past as it was left after internal conflicts led to the toppling of the moai. This site was once a village and features the island’s largest hare paenga (boathouse), Tore Tahuna, measuring 43 meters in length. According to tradition, it belonged to the renowned Ariki Tu’u Ko Ihu.
All our tour guides have high knowledge of the history and culture of the island, being considered passionate people and proud to be a rapanui. We drive modern vehicles adapted to local roads to provide you with the best comfort during your travel experience with us. We usually start our tours early to avoid large groups and explore at your own pace. Hotel pickup and drop-off ensure you a comfortable and convenient experience.
Included
- Private transportation
- Private tour guide (Bilingual Spanish/English) - other languages available upon request
- Safety equipment: helmets, front headlamps and sticks
- Bottled water
Excluded
- Lunch. We recommend bringing small cash or you can also bring your snack along on the tour
- Rapa Nui National Park Ticket is required to do this tour (not included)
Where to buy the ticket?: ONLINE: Buy your ticket here - link
Know before you go
- Comfortable shoes and clothing
- A hat, cap water, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.
- Water (recommended 1 liter)
- Rapa Nui National Park Ticket.