Rapa Nui underground: Half Day Private Trekking

Sites visited

Ana Te Pahu, Ana Te Pora, Ana Kakenga, Ahu Te Peu 

Description

Embark on a captivating half-day trekking tour to explore the volcanic cave systems that once served as vital shelters and ceremonial spaces for the Rapanui people. With your private guide, step off the main tourist trail to discover the mystical beauty and archaeological richness of Easter Island’s most impressive caves.

Begin at Ana Te Pahu, the island’s largest cave, featuring a vast lava tube system with four chambers once used for cooking, shelter, and survival. Its entrance is lush with banana trees, earning it the nickname “Cave of the Bananas.”

Next, visit Ana Te Pora, a smaller volcanic cave with deep ceremonial importance and easy access from a nearby parking area. Continue to Ana Kakenga, famously known as the “Cave of the Two Windows,” with two dramatic ocean-facing openings formed by lava flowing into the sea. The cave stretches about 50 meters and offers stunning coastal views.

The trek concludes at Ahu Te Peu, an unrestored archaeological site where toppled moai, ancient village remains, and the island’s longest hare paenga (boathouse) can still be seen in their original state. According to oral tradition, this site was once the home of Ariki Tu’u Ko Ihu, a revered chief.

Who is this tour for?

• Adventurous travelers looking to explore hidden natural and cultural wonders
• Visitors interested in geology, volcanology, and ancient Rapanui living practices
• Those who enjoy light to moderate trekking experiences away from crowded sites
• Cultural enthusiasts wanting an in-depth, private cave exploration guided by a local expert

Important to Know

• This tour includes walking over uneven surfaces and entering enclosed spaces
• A flashlight or headlamp is recommended for cave interiors
• Good walking shoes and water are essential