Easter Island ATTRACTIONS See all
Puna Pau Tours
Archaeologists have long pondered the origins of Easter Island’s iconic moai, and the ancient stone quarry of Puna Pau provides an important piece of the puzzle. Carved into the sides of a volcanic crater, Puna Pau is the spot from which the red volcanic rock, or scoria, was mined and used to sculpt the “pukao"—the distinctive topknot that caps the heads of some moai.
Dozens of pukao have been found around the island, all of which were made at Puna Pau, from where they were transported to the most important ahu (ceremonial sites)—no easy feat, as they measure between two and three meters in height and width and weigh up to 11 tons, and archaeologists are still unsure how this task was achieved. Today, around 30 of the pukao rocks can still be seen in and around Puna Pau, many of them adorned with petroglyphs.
Practical Info
Puna Pau is located by Cerro Tuutapu Mountain about three miles (5 km) inland from Hanga Roa. The entrance fee to the Rapa Nui National Park is $60 for all non-Chileans (payable on arrival to the island) and includes entrance to Puna Pau.
Tours & Tickets
Private Easter Island Full-Day Tour
Enjoy a full-day private tour of Easter Island learning about the historical Birdman Cult competition and seeing many stunning highlights of the island. Caves, ... Read more
Location: Hanga Roa, Chile
Duration: 7 hours (approx.)
From USD $200.00
Easter Island Super Saver: Ahu Akivi and Orongo plus Anakena Beach Day Trip
Save when you book three popular Easter Island tours to Ahu Akivi, Orongo and Anakena Beach. Visit famous ceremonial sites to admire mysterious 'moai,' stone ... Read more
Location: Hanga Roa, Chile
Duration: 2 days (approx.)
From USD $224.00
$261.00 Save $37.00
Small-Group Full-Day Easter Island Highlights North and West
Discover Easter Island's history, culture, and legends on this 6.5-hour tour. With a small group limited to 8 travelers, visit the important sites on the ... Read more
Location: Hanga Roa, Chile
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
From USD $115.00
