AHU TONGARIKI, is the name of the largest ahu on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), a Chilean insular territory. Due to its size, it is one of the most important archaeological and tourist spots on the island.
It was built during the heyday of the ancestral Rapanui culture. It is located on the southeast coast of the island, on the slopes of Rano Raraku, the main moai quarry. Following the crisis in Rapanui society, the moai were toppled, and many were washed away and damaged by the tsunami generated by the 1960 Valdivia earthquake. In the 1990s, various archaeological efforts were made to rebuild the ceremonial platform.
Currently, it has 15 moai aligned on a platform, with its back to the Pacific Ocean. One of the moai has a pukao and another is the heaviest ever erected on the island, weighing 86 tons. At present it is part of the Rapa Nui National Park, being administered by the Ma’u Henua indigenous community.
Itinerary
Departure from our hotel in Easter Island at around 6:00 am to enjoy the sunrise in the largest Ahu in Rapa Nui, the Ahu Tongariki.
Due to its location, this is the best place to appreciate the sunrise among the 15 Moais that make up this Ahu. The combination of colors, the sea and the historic Moais bring magic and mysticism to this place. Without a doubt, we will enjoy a unique experience, an excellent way to start the day on Easter Island.
Return to our hotel on Easter Island.
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