A Face in the Earth
1 DAY
Delve into one of Rapa Nui’s most remote landscapes and discover Pōike, the island’s first eruptive center and one of the three great volcanoes that shaped its territory. This 8.3-kilometer route will take you through ancient volcanic cones, cliffs, and archaeological remains that reveal part of the history and worldview of the Rapanui people.
This journey can only be undertaken with a guide and is part of the Te Ara o Rapa Nui Heritage Route: World Heritage, from the Ministry of National Assets. You can find more details at the following link.
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Walk Among Volcanoes
Allow approximately 4 hours to complete the circuit, exclusively on foot and with high difficulty. Additionally, you will need an entrance ticket and the accompaniment of a certified guide.
On this journey, you will walk along the slopes of the Pōike volcano, which emerged approximately three million years ago. This volcano is the first eruptive center of Rapa Nui and one of the three main volcanoes that gave rise to the island’s formation.
From Hanga Roa, you will travel about 30 minutes towards the eastern part of the island to reach the Mahatua sector. The first landmark of your ascent will be Vai a Heva , an enormous rock carved in the shape of a human face. According to tradition, it was used to collect rainwater and is linked to various stories passed down through generations.
Then you will continue walking through the volcanic cones Maunga Vai a Heva, Maunga Tea Tea, and Maunga Perehe, where you can recognize trachyte, a volcanic rock used in the creation of some moai, and the smallest erected moai in Rapa Nui, only 1.13 meters tall.
Continue to Puakatiki, the highest point of the circuit, from whose summit you can contemplate the extensive plains of Rapa Nui and the ocean surrounding the island. Finally, visit the ceremonial altar Ahu Teremu Hiva and begin your return journey.
Photography: moevarua.com
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Walk Among Volcanoes
Allow approximately 4 hours to complete the circuit, exclusively on foot and with high difficulty. Additionally, you will need an entrance ticket and the accompaniment of a certified guide.
On this journey, you will walk along the slopes of the Pōike volcano, which emerged approximately three million years ago. This volcano is the first eruptive center of Rapa Nui and one of the three main volcanoes that gave rise to the island’s formation.
From Hanga Roa, you will travel about 30 minutes towards the eastern part of the island to reach the Mahatua sector. The first landmark of your ascent will be Vai a Heva , an enormous rock carved in the shape of a human face. According to tradition, it was used to collect rainwater and is linked to various stories passed down through generations.
Then you will continue walking through the volcanic cones Maunga Vai a Heva, Maunga Tea Tea, and Maunga Perehe, where you can recognize trachyte, a volcanic rock used in the creation of some moai, and the smallest erected moai in Rapa Nui, only 1.13 meters tall.
Continue to Puakatiki, the highest point of the circuit, from whose summit you can contemplate the extensive plains of Rapa Nui and the ocean surrounding the island. Finally, visit the ceremonial altar Ahu Teremu Hiva and begin your return journey.
Photography: moevarua.com
What you should know
How to get there by air
Mataveri International Airport (IPC) is the main access point, with flights operated by LATAM from Santiago lasting 5.5 hours. Due to high demand and limited capacity, it is recommended to purchase tickets months in advance. It is essential to present the FUI form and accommodation reservation upon boarding.
How to get there by land
On the island, transportation is mainly by rental vehicles, bicycles, or guided horseback riding. Given that distances between archaeological sites are considerable and the climate is changeable, renting a 4×4 vehicle is the most comfortable option for flexibly exploring the entire 154 km circuit.
Climate and clothing
Humid subtropical climate. Rains are brief but intense at any time of year. Wear light, breathable clothing, but always carry a raincoat. Trekking footwear is vital for volcanic trails, along with a hat and sunglasses.
Must-Know Tips
To complete the Pōike Circuit, you must have an entrance ticket to Rapa Nui National Park and an accredited Rapanui guide. Respect the trails and archaeological zones: do not touch or climb on the moai or ahu, and avoid interfering with structures or collecting elements from the landscape.
