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.