2013 南美會師 Easter Island

Next, head to the volcanic crater of Rano Raraku. This might be the most impressive site on the island. Seventy standing sentinels, embedded up to their shoulders in grass on the south slope of the volcanic crater Rano Raraku, lead the way to the quarry or "nursery" inside of the impressive crater rim. This is where the Moai were cut from volcanic tuff, and some 150 figures remain here in all stages of completion. They are mute witnesses to the mystery that suddenly stopped all work. Next, visit the Ahu of some of the nearby Moai, and check out the holes in the crater rim that were used to maneuver the statues.

After this amazing site, drive to Ahu Te Pito Kura on the northern coast and visit the Anakena beach, the legendary landing place of the island's founder Hota Matua. After swimming and relaxing in this piece of South Pacific paradise, we return you to the hotel for the evening.

Day 3 Orongo - Ahu Vinapu - Ana Kai Tangata Cave (B) Today's drive takes you to Rano Kau volcano, the biggest on the island, whose enormous crater is now a fresh water lake with floating green fields of totora reeds. This site offers an exceptional view of three tiny and craggy off-shore islands: Nui, Motu and Kao-Kao. Perched 400 meters above the lake on the crater wall is the ceremonial village of Orongo, where the bizarre "bird man" ritual took place. The partially restored village has 48 oval buildings built out of overlapping stone slabs. Over the cliffs you can see an amazing string of "bird man" petroglyphs.

The Ana Kai Tangata cave sits at the end of a beautiful little bay. A rocky trail leads to the cave entrance, and venturing inside you see a few paintings relating to the birdman culture. After exploring the cave, return to your hotel and have the afternoon free.

Day 4 Ahu Akivi (B) At the ceremonial center of Ahu Akivi there are seven standing Moais who, unlike most others, look out at the sea. It is said they represent the sons of a Maori sorcerer sent to search for Rapa Nui, the home for King Hotu Matua. However, Georgia Lee states "their function was to look out over the ceremonial area... the ocean just happens to be out there in the distance." Approximately a week after the spring equinox, the seven statues all look directly at the setting sun. This inland ahu was restored in 1960, and all around the site are volcanic caves which you are free to explore. The most impressive caves are called "Two Windows" and the "Cave of the Banana." Before returning to your base, visit Ahu Tepeu and the quarry Puna Pau, where topknots - hats or hairpieces for the Moai, in essence - were carved from the soft volcanic scoria.

Day 5 Easter Island - Mainland (B) Enjoy a relaxing morning in Hanga Roa before taking your flight for home. With more time, allow us to make additional arrangements in Santiago, Patagonia, or Peru.

Tour Cost Summary: $ 855: Ground Costs per person for Easter Island 5-day Tour (based on 2010/2011 rates)

Single Supplement: $180

Includes: 4 nights comfortable hotels Meals as indicated by B, L, or D. Most hotels offer a continental breakfast that may not be listed above Bilingual Private Guide

Excludes: Chilean visa reciprocity fee International airport pickup/dropoff (can be added for additional cost) Optional excursions during free time Optional Travel insuranceInternational Flights Airport taxes Gratuities

Recommended Budgeting (per person): $125 Meals not included $140 Chilean Visa Reciprocity Fee $18 international airport departure tax $13 local airport taxes $80 Optional Excursions Money for souvenirs and gratuities

Tour Notes: Roundtrip flights Santiago-Easter Island-Santiago or Lima-Easter Island-Lima are not included. Please add US$475 - 1150 (flight cost subject to change and vary greatly depending upon your travel month)

Flights to/from Easter Island may be limited. As of Dec 13, 2010, LAN air offers flights from Santiago to Easter Island every day of the week EXCEPT Thursdays. They offer return flights back to Santiago every day.

Tours depart: Any Day of the Week