Experience sunrise at Tongariki
Visit Tongariki at sunrise for one of Easter island’s most spellbinding iconic views.
On the eastern end of the south coast of Easter island is Tongariki, just a 30 minute drive from the main town Hanga Roa. It is an exquisite spot, the name of which refers to the easterly winds which reach the exposed shores here. Tongariki is defined by the extinct volcanos Rano Raraku and Poike. Poike is of the three extinct craters which compose the island and the second highest point on the island. Its slopes fall away steeply to the sea at Hanga Nui cove, beyond which is an islet known as Motu Maratiri. The fishing port Hanga Iti is also nearby.
The ahu here (ahus are the burial platforms, topped by the famous moai statures, built to celebrate the revered leaders of the island’s 13 tribes) is the largest on Easter Island, with a row of 15 flinty moai. They have an eventful history: toppled during the island’s civil wars and then in the 20th century the ahu was swept inland by a tsunami. They are now restored, and the sight of them silhouetted against the tangerine sky at sunrise is not to be missed.
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Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
