Explore the wonders of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) with a private tour of Rano Kau and Orongo. This half-day adventure takes visitors through the stunning caldera of Rano Kau, home to a lush, freshwater lake nestled within volcanic slopes. Then, uncover the ancient ceremonial village of Orongo, where over fifty stone houses stand as a testament to the island’s rich history and cultural significance. With an experienced guide providing insights into the geology and traditions, this personalized tour offers a comfortable and immersive experience. What secrets will you uncover on this journey through Easter Island’s remarkable landscape?
This experience made our list of the 13 Best Tours In Easter Island.
Good To Know
- Explore the stunning Rano Kau volcano and the ancient Birdman competition site at Orongo on a private half-day tour.
- Gain insights into the island’s culture and geology from a knowledgeable guide during the 1-hour and 1.5-hour visits, respectively.
- Enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and included national park admission for Rano Kau and Orongo.
- Tour not suitable for travelers with mobility limitations or serious health issues due to uneven terrain and physical demands.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off options within Hanga Roa, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
Tour Overview
The Rano Kau and Orongo tour is a half-day private excursion that immerses visitors in the captivating natural wonders and cultural heritage of Easter Island.
It showcases the Rano Kau volcano, a stunning caldera with a wetland, and the Orongo ceremonial village, home to the ancient Birdman competition. Priced from $160 per group, the tour includes a knowledgeable in-person guide, air-conditioned transportation, and free admission to the national park.
With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, it provides an exclusive and educational experience for travelers. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Easter Island.
Location and Highlights
Easter Island’s captivating landscapes provide the backdrop for the Rano Kau and Orongo tour. Visitors will explore the Rano Kau, a breathtaking caldera with a lush wetland, and the Orongo, a ceremonial village featuring the remains of over fifty stone houses linked to the enigmatic Birdman competition.
Location | Duration | Admission |
---|---|---|
Rano Kau | 1 hour | Free |
Orongo | 1.5 hours | Free |
This private tour offers an opportunity to explore the island’s rich history and natural wonders, led by a knowledgeable guide and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle. Participants will gain invaluable insights into Easter Island’s captivating culture and geology.
Itinerary Breakdown
This private tour begins with a visit to the stunning Rano Kau, a captivating caldera boasting a lush wetland. Guests will spend an hour exploring this geological marvel, admiring the breathtaking landscapes and formations.
The tour then moves on to the ceremonial village of Orongo, where visitors can discover the remains of over fifty stone houses associated with the Birdman competition, a significant cultural ritual. This portion of the tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable guide provides insights, and transportation is included in an air-conditioned vehicle. Admission to the national park is required for participation in this half-day private tour.
Tour Features
A private tour ensures exclusive travel for your group, allowing for a more personalized and educational experience.
With a knowledgeable in-person guide, you’ll delve deeper into the history and significance of the sites you visit.
Transportation is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making your journey more convenient.
Plus, a national park ticket is included, granting you access to the protected areas of Rano Kau and Orongo.
However, this tour may not be suitable for all travelers, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers can choose their preferred pickup location from any spot within Hanga Roa, including the Mataveri International Airport.
The tour’s meeting point is at Atamu Tekena in Hanga Roa, Isla de Pascua, Valparaíso, Chile. At the end of the tour, the group returns to the same meeting point.
This tour offers the following pickup options:
- Mataveri International Airport
- Any location in Hanga Roa
- Atamu Tekena (meeting point)
- Preferred location within Hanga Roa
Accessibility and Participation
The tour’s accessibility is limited, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.
However, most travelers can participate in the tour, which includes visiting the Rano Kau caldera and the Orongo ceremonial village.
Visitors should be aware of the physical demands, as the tour involves walking and navigating uneven terrain.
It’s essential to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for the weather conditions.
The tour guide can provide more details on the level of physical activity required to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Booking and Confirmation
When booking the Rano Kau and Orongo tour, travelers receive their confirmation at the time of booking, unless the experience is within 2 days of travel. In that case, confirmation will be provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The booking process includes the following:
- Choose pickup location in Hanga Roa, including the airport.
- Meet at the designated meeting point of Atamu Tekena.
- Tour ends at the original meeting point.
- Confirm accessibility requirements and participation abilities prior to booking.
Pricing and Cancellation
The tour is priced from $160.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.
This half-day private tour offers excellent value, considering the personalized attention and transportation provided.
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, giving travelers the flexibility to change their plans if needed.
This no-hassle cancellation policy ensures a stress-free booking process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Food and Drinks Provided During the Tour?
The tour does not include any food or drinks. Travelers will need to bring their own provisions if they require sustenance during the half-day excursion to Rano Kau and Orongo on Easter Island.
Can I Take Photos at the Sites?
Visitors can generally take photos at the sites during the tour. However, they should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide or on-site staff to ensure they respect the sites and other visitors.
What Should I Bring for the Tour?
For this tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and cash for any optional expenses. Dress in layers as the weather can be changeable on Easter Island.
Do I Need a Special Permit to Visit Rapa Nui National Park?
Yes, you’ll need a permit to visit Rapa Nui National Park on Easter Island. The required Rapa Nui National Park ticket is included in the price of this private tour, so you’re covered for the tour’s sites.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention any age restrictions. Most travelers can participate, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions. The accessibility information suggests the tour may not be suitable for all visitors.
The Sum Up
This private tour offers a captivating exploration of Rano Kau’s stunning caldera and the ancient ceremonial village of Orongo. With an informative guide, visitors can enjoy the island’s rich history and natural wonders. The tour’s comfortable transportation and included park admission ensure an unforgettable experience through this unique landscape. Whether seeking cultural insights or breathtaking scenery, this half-day excursion is an excellent choice.
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