Easter Island Travel Forum

We'll be following the five-day itinerary described in the Guide To EI, and are wondering if there are particular areas that really _need_ a guide. Orongo? Poike? We'll probably hire a jeep for the week...TIA!

I highly recommend to take a guided tour for a day trip along the south coast with lots of 'altars'and fallem statues to the moai factory Rano Raraku and
Ahu Tongariki (with the 15 statues). This trip includes also a visit to the 'navel of the world' and a (short) stay on the beach of Anakena.
(that is more or less Day One in 'your' book)

We didn't do (regret it very much) but would recommend to do also a guided tour to some caves north of Hanga Roa. As far as I know this is a half day trip. We tried to do it by ourself, did find the caves but didn't trust to go inside.
Together with a visit to Ahu Akivi it is Day Three from the book.

If you really interested in the culture of Rapa Nui is a visit to the ceremonial site also a must (Day two). And I can imagine to do it with a guide to understand more of the history and culture. I think it is possible to make acombination with a visit to the 'hat factory' of Puna Pau.
This will be also a half day trip.

If you are doing this trips with a guide, there is no need for you to rent a (rather) expensive jeep for the week, after all you will visit the most sites with your guide.

I highly recommend to do your trips with AO Tour/Patricio Ballerino. This guy is really one of the best guides we ever had during our travels. Patricio has always small groups, because he has to transport his 'guests' in his mini bus. He speaks English very well.
He was more a host than a tour guide. Always willing to explaine things, never in a hurry.

More info about Easter Island and AO Tour on my Easter Island page:http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/7c27b/946/

Feel free to ask more info. I'm sure you will enjoy your stay on Rapa Nui.

Jaap

> I think it is possible to make acombination with a visit to the 'hat factory' of Puna Pau. <

I meant to say this can be a combination with a visit to Ahu Akivi.

Jaap

I would suggest hiring a guide on the first full day on the island at a minimum. We hired Bill, the owner of the Hotel Tauraa who is one of the best guides you'll find anywhere.

We first went to the quarry end of the island. Next visit Orongo with one and you'll be set for the stay. You will get so much more out of the trip as we did. Understanding what you are seeing is just as important as seeing it.

Gottagocit