Plizio Visual Lab

Ahu Tongariki

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Ahu Tongariki is the largest and most impressive ceremonial site on Easter Island (Rapa Nui). On a massive stone platform, the ahu, 15 monumental Moai statues stand proudly with their backs to the Pacific Ocean. This site represents the pinnacle of megalithic construction in the Rapa Nui culture and served as a major religious and social center. In 1960, the site was almost completely destroyed by a massive tsunami triggered by an earthquake off the Chilean coast; the multi-ton statues were swept hundreds of meters inland. During the 1990s, Ahu Tongariki was restored in an ambitious international project led by archaeologist Claudio Cristino and supported by the Japanese company Tadano. Today, the site can be admired in its full glory and features a sweeping spectacle, especially at sunrise. The varying sizes and features of the 15 statues indicate that they represent different ancestors or chiefs. Tongariki is a symbol of the resilience and cultural heritage of the Rapa Nui people.

Location: Chile
Top sights: Hotu Iti · San Pedro · Te Pa-Haha-Tea

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Oct–Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	24	24	23	22	21	20	19	19	20	21	22
Rain mm	33	25	39	63	89	73	52	40	50	40	47	32

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

Ahu Tongariki is one of the most famous and best-preserved ceremonial platforms on Easter Island and is freely accessible to visitors. The 15 Moai statues stand on a massive stone platform and are surrounded by a wide, open area that can be explored at any time.

🕒

Typical hours

The site is an open-air monument and has no fixed opening hours; it can theoretically be visited at any time. However, the Rapa Nui National Park, to which the site belongs, is usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and entry is only possible with a park pass.

📷

Photography

Photography of the Moai and the landscape is unrestricted and even recommended, especially at sunrise. Drones are strictly prohibited throughout the national park to protect the archaeological site and wildlife.

⏱️

Time needed

Allow about 30 minutes to 1 hour to walk around the platform, view the statues from different angles, and take photos. If you want to experience the sunrise here, plan for at least 1.5 hours.

➕

Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby Rano Raraku volcanic crater, the quarry from which most Moai were carved. Anakena Beach, a white sand beach with additional Moai, is also a short drive away.

🧭

Getting there

Ahu Tongariki is located on the east coast of Easter Island, about 20 kilometers from the town of Hanga Roa. The site is best reached by rental car, taxi, or as part of a guided tour, as the road is well-maintained.

💡

Insider tip

The sunrise behind the 15 Moai is an unforgettable experience; arrive about 30 minutes before sunrise to secure the best spot. Bring a flashlight, as the road from Hanga Roa may still be dark.