Pōike, the oldest volcano on Rapa Nui, is not only known for its geological significance but also for its cultural and archaeological heritage. The volcano is surrounded by numerous caves, including the famous Ana o Keke cave, which is located on the southeastern flank of Pōike. In addition to the caves, Pōike is home to several ahus, which are ceremonial platforms constructed by the Rapa Nui people and are thought to have served as platforms for the placement of the iconic Moai statues. The Moai statues found on Pōike are unique in that they are carved from different volcanic rock and exhibit varying styles and characteristics compared to those found in other parts of the island.

Exploring Pōike offers a glimpse into the ancient culture and history of Easter Island, with its ancient caves, ceremonial platforms, captivating petroglyphs, and well-preserved Moai sculptures. The combination of natural beauty, archaeological sites, and cultural significance makes Pōike a must-visit destination for those interested in the rich heritage of Rapa Nui.

Itinerary and What to Bring

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AHU MAHATUA

Rapa Nui, Chile

Ahu Mahatua is a significant ceremonial center once dedicated to cremation and burial rites. As we walk along Pōike's steep coast, the three distinct mounds of Ma'unga Parehe (broken hill), Ma'unga Tea Tea (white hill), and Ma'unga Vai a Heva (magic water hill) stand high above.

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MAUNGA PAREHE

Rapa Nui, Chile

Maunga Parehe is one of the three distinct mounds of Poike and a hill steeped in Rapa Nui myths. At its summit, we'll encounter a small lapili tuff moai, and explore the fascinating tales of ure a oho vehi and the aku aku spirits.

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AHU KIRI REVA

Rapa Nui, Chile

Ahu Kiri Reva features three distinct construction stages and a remarkable Moai face unearthed during archaeological excavations in 2006 by Nicolas Cauwe.

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PAPA U'I HETU'U

Rapa Nui, Chile

Papa u'i hetu'u ("the flat lava flow from which the stars were observed"), is an ancient stargazing site adorned with petroglyphs believed to represent Ma'ea Matariki (Pleiades) according to oral tradition.

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ANA O KEKE

Rapa Nui, Chile

Ana o Keke, also known as the "cave of the virgins", is steeped in history and mysticism. The petroglyphs of Ana O Keke are unique and one of the highlights of this tour. They form a carefully thought-out composition, with some motifs being exclusive to this site. The petroglyphs cover the inner surface of the lava tube depicting both realistic images of plants, birds, fishes, and outrigger canoes, as well as abstract geometric forms.

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AHU MOAI TEA TEA

Rapa Nui, Chile

Ahu Moai Tea Tea is home to a collection of approximately a dozen well-preserved, demolished Moai sculpted from trachyte, offering a unique glimpse into Rapa Nui's ancient past.

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PUA KATIKI

Rapa Nui, Chile

Pua Katiki is the highest point on the Poike Peninsula and the oldest volcano in Rapa Nui. Here, you'll be treated to an incredible panoramic view of both the south and north coastlines of the island.

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MA'UNGA VAI A HEVA

Rapa Nui, Chile

Maunga Vai a Heva is a hill with a rich archaeological history. Here, you will find a moai nestled within a small cave. The hill gets its name from a large 3-meter head carved into the rock, featuring prominent eyes and a broad nose, with a natural cavity below representing a mouth, possibly used to collect rainwater.


  • Shoes

    Good footwear is a must on this hike

  • Sun Protection

    Bring a hat, sunglasses, water and plenty of sunscreen

  • Food & Water

    Pack ample food & water (at least 1 liter)

  • Clothing

    We recommend long pants and bring a Rain jacket

Stops

8

Duration

Full Day

Group size

4

Difficulty

Hard

  • What's included?
    • Hotel pick up & drop off

    • Private transportation

    • Private tour guide (Bilingual Spanish/English)

    • Bottled water

  • What's excluded?
    • No Lunch included

    • Rapa Nui National Park Ticket is not included


    Buy ticket here
  • Please note
    • Not wheelchair accessible

    • Most travelers can participate

    • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

    • Not recommended for travelers with back problems

    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions

  • Conditions & Restrictions
    • Book activity a minimum of 3 working days prior

    • Time to modify Reservation date: 48 hrs

Your guide

Joaquin Soler Hotu

Born and raised in Rapa Nui, this island and its waters are my passions. I speak Spanish, English and Rapa Nui fluently and am excited to share our history and culture with you.

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