Rano Raraku

This ranks amongst the most remarkable locations on the island. One can observe countless Moai statues at various phases of completion. Though the atmosphere evokes more of a burial ground than a production site, exploring this area remains utterly captivating. Historical records suggest that a dozen workers would spend an entire year crafting just one statue, with the most massive specimen, dubbed "El Gigante", reaching a height of over 20 metres and weighing approximately 160 tonnes. Multiple hypotheses exist regarding the transportation methods of these Moai to their final positions, yet a conclusive explanation remains elusive. Remember that your ticket permits only a single entry to this site, so ensure you explore thoroughly.

Known as the "Moai Factory," this is the birthplace of the famed Moai statues, and where they were carved. They were all carved from this mountain, and this is the closest you can get to them on the island. There are literally hundreds of them here, and you can see them in every stage of their process. You will need a guide and park ticket to enter. This is by far the most magical place on Easter Island. You have to make this a stop on your trip or you will miss out on so much history. The most famous and most photographed Moai are right as you walk in on the path up. Don't forget to go towards the back to see the kneeling Moai and see the area where some Moai are still in the mountain.

Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater formed of consolidated volcanic ash, or tuff, and located on the lower slopes of Terevaka in the Rapa Nui National Park on Easter Island. Moai are monolithic carved stone figures with elongated faces and no legs that were mostly quarried from tuff, a kind of volcanic ash, at the Rano Raraku volcano. Around 900 moai were carved at the quarry and 396 still remain there half finished.

If you are going to Easter Island, this is one of the two main sites you have to do. This site is amazing. The Moai here are fantastic, really impressive. This is where they were carved and one of the few places you can clearly see the caramel coloured sandstone they are actually carved from. Its worth spending a few hours here and doing all the paths. There are some really impressive Moai higher up. Around the end of the volcano you can also get a really good view of the Moai on the coast. We went just after the fire and you can see where its burned.

This is everybody's favorite site on Rapa Nui and for a good reason. Tons of Moai 🗿 in all sorts of size and shape. On a good day, you'll have the blue of the ocean, green of the grass and the Moai in your picture and you'll feel like Sir David Attenborough. Don't hesitate, just go and enjoy!

My favourite spot on Easter Island. Over 400 moais decorate the hills of this valley where they were carved before being taken to their final destination. Most never got there and remain here in a magnificent panorama. A walk round here is the best experience you can have on Easter Island. A photographer's delight. Not to be missed.

Visiting Rano Raraku was an absolute marvel! The enigmatic aura surrounding the Moai statues and the breathtaking landscape captivated my imagination. Witnessing these colossal figures emerging from the earth was an awe-inspiring experience, leaving me spellbound by the ancient craftsmanship and the island's historical legacy.

Amazing place with great view. Must visit, local guide required