Ahu Akivi & Inland Archaeological Walk
Visit the only moai on the island that face the ocean, surrounded by a highland landscape rich in archaeological sites and native plants.
- 1
Ahu Akivi Platform
Seven restored moai face westward toward the ocean — the only ahu on the island where the statues face the sea, aligned with the setting sun at equinox.
- 2
Inland Plateau Trail
A trail crosses the central plateau past ancient garden walls, chicken houses, and the remains of oval thatched boat-shaped houses called hare paenga.
- 3
Puna Pau Quarry
The red scoria quarry at Puna Pau is where the pukao — the cylindrical topknots worn by some moai — were carved from the soft red volcanic rock.
- 4
Topknot Storage Area
Dozens of unfinished and abandoned pukao lie scattered around the quarry, providing a fascinating glimpse into the moai manufacturing process.
- 5
Ahu Te Peu
The remains of a large ahu on the northwest coast, its moai toppled and broken — one of many platforms destroyed when inter-tribal wars swept the island.
- 6
Tahai Ceremonial Complex
The restored Tahai complex near Hanga Roa contains three platforms including the only moai with restored coral and obsidian eyes, facing the setting sun.
Walk this route with audio
Stories play automatically as you reach each stop — no tapping needed.
