Silversea Luxury Cruises A EASTER ISLAND

Take an unforgettable tour of Easter Island, known first as Ahu Hanga Te'e. Commence this spectacular tour with a 20-minute drive along the south coast towards Ahu Vaihu to visit the ruins of a circular plateau filled with mystically arranged stone monuments referred to as a platform. A short drive follows to Ahu Tongariki, formerly the largest platform on the Island destroyed by a tidal wave in 1960, but since reconstructed.

From there, continue to the spectacular Rano Raraku quarry, so symbolic of the island and the original "factory" of the moais, the giant stone head statues for which Easter Island is known around the world. These gigantic statues cover the inner and outer slopes of the volcano; they can be admired in the different stages of production, from carving in the rock to upright position, and lying face down on their intended road to their platforms.

The next stop is the beach of Anakena where, according to native legend, Hotu Matua first landed on Rapa Nui. At this site see the Ahu Nau Nau, the awe-inspiring line-up of moais that was partially restored in 1978 by Rapa Nui archaeologist Sergio Rapu. Located in this same area is the Ahu Ature Huki. The moai standing on this ahu was the first moai to ever be re-erected on an ahu. This restoration was done by a group of islanders working with Thor Heyerdahl and the Norwegian expedition in 1956.

Return to the pier.

Take an unforgettable tour of Easter Island, known first as Ahu Hanga Te'e. Commence this spectacular tour with a 20-minute drive along the south coast towards Ahu Vaihu to visit the ruins of a circular plateau filled with mystically arranged stone monuments referred to as a platform. A short drive follows to Ahu Tongariki, formerly the largest platform on the Island destroyed by a tidal wave in 1960, but since reconstructed.

From there, continue to the spectacular Rano Raraku quarry, so symbolic of the island and the original "factory" of the moais, the giant stone head statues for which Easter Island is known around the world. These gigantic statues cover the inner and outer slopes of the volcano; they can be admired in the different stages of production, from carving in the rock to upright position, and lying face down on their intended road to their platforms.

The next stop is the beach of Anakena where, according to native legend, Hotu Matua first landed on Rapa Nui. At this site see the Ahu Nau Nau, the awe-inspiring line-up of moais that was partially restored in 1978 by Rapa Nui archaeologist Sergio Rapu. Located in this same area is the Ahu Ature Huki. The moai standing on this ahu was the first moai to ever be re-erected on an ahu. This restoration was done by a group of islanders working with Thor Heyerdahl and the Norwegian expedition in 1956.

In Anakena, a great buffet lunch awaits you in a shaded area overlooking the beach. After lunch, there is free time in Anakena to swim or stroll on the beach.

Next, drive up to the ceremonial village of Orongo, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Rapa Nui National Park and the most visited place on Easter Island. It was the center of the birdman cult established in the 18th and 19th centuries in an attempt to restore the society after the collapse of the moai culture. Clans would gather at the village each year, and their champions would compete in a kind of triathlon to elect island's religious leader.

Orongo village consists of some 53 elliptically shaped houses having shale walls and a small square entry overlooking the ocean, where the clans would live during the ceremonies. Remaining through the last period of ancient times, this was a historical landmark in the Rapa Nui culture.

Return to the pier.

Explore the ancient legacy and culture of Easter Island during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Easter Island, Ahu Akivi, Moais

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive north to Ahu Akivi, one of the main sites of this island. 'Ahu' is the native word for a ceremonial platform, or altar, on which the famous moai stand. In contrast to the monumental statuary at other sites on the island, the moais at Ahu Akivi face the ocean. Built in 1460 B.C., probably at a time when the statue cult was beginning to unravel, it is one of the 'youngest' ahu of the island, and was completely restored in 1960 by archaeologist William Mulloy. Following your visit, re-board your coach and head to Ahu Tahai.

Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure

Located just outside Hanga Roa Town and adjacent to the cemetery, Ahu Tahai is a complex consisting of three different ahu sites; Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure and Ahu Tahai. Ahu Ko Te Riku features a beautiful, single statue placed on a platform dating from 690 B.C. The statue is in good condition, and has white eyeballs with dark pupils. Ahu Vai Ure is home to five different statues, whereas Ahu Tahai, named after the entire complex, has a single large moai. Restored in the late-1960s and dating from the 6th century, it is believed that this complex is one of the oldest ancient statue sites on Rapa Nui.

Hanga Roa Village, Artisan Market, Handicrafts, Jewellery, Local Church, Statues

Leaving Ahu Tahai, re-board the coach for a brief sightseeing drive en route to Hanga Roa Village. Upon arrival, a shopping stop is made at the famous Artisan Market. Some free time is made available to browse the market for locally-made handicrafts, including stone moai replicas and traditional, hand-made jewellery, whilst interacting with local merchants. From here, take a guided stroll to the nearby local church, which is decorated with spectacular, carved-wood statues; a syncretic vision of Christianity and indigenous spirituality. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Hike to the Rano Kau area in this experience that is sure to give you memorable landscapes as you make your way to one of the island's craters and to visit the important Orongo village. This program considers walking and standing for a long period of time and a walk of around 4 kilometres. Bring plenty of water if you wish to join us!

Departing from the quay directly towards the road climbing up to the volcano of Rano Kau, which dates back over 2.5 million years ago. It is known because of its cliff and for the lake inside the crater, which is 1 mile in diameter and 918ft deep. Near the narrowest border and to the far West of the volcano it is found the ceremonial village of Orongo, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Rapa Nui National Park and the most visited place on Easter Island. It was the center of the birdman cult established in the 18th and 19th centuries in an attempt to restore the society after the collapse of the moai culture. Clans would gather at the village each year, and their champions would compete in a kind of triathlon to elect island's religious leader. Orongo village consists of some 53 elliptically shaped houses having shale walls and a small square entry overlooking the ocean, where the clans would live during the ceremonies. Remaining the last period of ancient times, this was an historical landmark in the Rapa Nui culture.

Experience the volcanic beauty and history of the Rano Kau Volcano and its surrounds during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Rano Kau Volcano and Viewpoint

Depart the pier for the short drive up towards the Rano Kau Volcano, which dates back over 2.5 million years. It is renowned for its cliff and crater-lake, which is approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres) in diameter and approximately 918 feet (280 metres) in depth. Upon arrival, a photo stop is made at the Rano Kau Volcano for spectacular panoramic views of your surrounds. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to the ceremonial village of Orongo, located near the narrowest border and to the far-west of the volcano.

Orongo Village, Elliptically-Shaped Houses

Orongo is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Rapa Nui National Park, and the most visited place on Easter Island. Orongo was the centre of the birdman cult, established in the 18th and 19th centuries. In an attempt to restore the society after the collapse of the moai culture, clans would gather at the village each year, and their champions would compete in a kind of triathlon to elect the island's religious leader. Orongo Village consists of some 53 elliptically-shaped houses with shale walls and a small square entry overlooking the ocean, where the clans would live during the ceremonies. A memento of the last period of ancient times, Orongo is an historical landmark in the Rapa Nui culture. Following a guided walking tour of Orongo Village, continue on for a visit to the impressive Ahu Tahai.

Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure, Ahu Tahai, Hanga Roa Village

Located just outside Hanga Roa Town and adjacent to the cemetery, Ahu Tahai is a complex consisting of three different ahu sites; Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure and Ahu Tahai. Ahu Ko Te Riku features a beautiful, single statue placed on a platform dating from 690 B.C. The statue is in good condition, and has white eyeballs with dark pupils. Ahu Vai Ure is home to five different statues, whereas Ahu Tahai, named after the entire complex, has a single large moai. Restored in the late-1960s and dating from the 6th century, it is believed that this complex is one of the oldest ancient statue sites on Rapa Nui. Leaving Ahu Tahai, you may re-board the coach and commence the scenic drive back to the pier via Hanga Roa Village, or opt to be dropped off in town and return to the ship on your own.

Embrace the culture and traditions of Rapa Nui in a unique new way during this fascinating excursion to Ahu Tahai.

Easter Island, Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure

Depart the pier for the short drive to the 7th-century Ahu Tahai, restored in 1967 by archaeologist William Mulloy and one of the oldest dated sites on the island. Upon arrival, enjoy a fascinating insight into the culture of Rapa Nui. Although the name 'Tahai' is used generally to describe the site, it does, in fact, include three different ahu (temples); Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure and Ahu Tahai. Ahu Ko Te Riku features a beautiful, single statue placed on a platform dating from 690 B.C. The statue is in good condition, and has white eyeballs with dark pupils. Ahu Vai Ure is home to five different statues, whereas Ahu Tahai, named after the entire complex, has a single large moai.

Ancient Boathouse, Henhouse and Boat-Ramp

This site offers a unique opportunity to learn about burial rituals and the relation of old Rapa Nui people with sacredness. In addition, see a restored hare paenga (boathouse), hare moa (henhouse) and a boat-ramp, as a recreation of everything that marked the existence of the Rapa Nui culture, around its beliefs and resources.

Traditional Refreshments, Body-Painting and Songs

As a special treat, you are invited to enjoy a glass of natural fruit juice and poe (traditional cake) at this remarkable location whilst enjoying Takona, a traditional form of Rapa Nui body-painting exclusively staged for your visit. During traditional ceremonies, Rapa Nui people paint their faces and bodies, thus preserving the technique of mixing natural pigments and describing the meaning of the painting whilst accompanied by musicians singing traditional songs. The Rapa Nui culture developed body-painting in a particular way that incorporated original motifs, which had great importance as a part of the body's decoration and helped to make the tattooed designs stand out. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Leaving the village of Hanga Roa you will drive until arriving to the remains of the old sheep farm at Vai Tea. From there you will begin hiking uphill until almost 500 mts of altitude, to arrive to the top of the youngest volcano of Easter Island, Maunga Terevaka. From there you will be able to appreciate the most beautiful 360º views of the coast of the island, ocean where-ever you look.

After taking some minutes to rest, you will begin the hike down again to the restored Ahu of Akivi, the legend is that the 7 statues represent the explorers who were sent to the island by the famous king Hotu Matu'a.

Return to the pier.

Experience the scenic splendour of Easter Island in a unique and relaxing new way during this unforgettable, half-day horseback-riding excursion to the peak of Terevaka.

Easter Island, Terevaka, Guided Horseback-Riding

Depart the pier for the short drive to the base of Terevaka. Upon arrival, receive your safety, riding and tour instructions, then mount your horse and begin your guided horseback-riding adventure. Your gentle, approximately 60-minute ride passes through forests and meadows en route to the top of Terevaka. At a height of approximately 1,680 feet (about 512 metres) above sea level, Terevaka is the highest peak on Easter Island.

Peak of Terevaka, Spectacular, 360-Degree Views, Free Time, Photos

Upon arrival at Terevaka's peak, take in spectacular, 360-degree views in all directions. Following some free time to enjoy the views, rest and take incredible photos, mount your horse and begin your descent to the base of Terevaka. Upon arrival, dismount your horse and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Experience the volcanic beauty and history of the Rano Kau Volcano and its surrounds during this excursion.

Depart the pier for the short drive up towards the Rano Kau Volcano, which dates back over 2.5 million years. It is renowned for its cliff and crater-lake, which is approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres) in diameter and approximately 918 feet (280 metres) in depth. Upon arrival, a photo stop is made at the Rano Kau Volcano for spectacular panoramic views of your surrounds. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to the ceremonial village of Orongo, located near the narrowest border and to the far-west of the volcano.

Orongo is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Rapa Nui National Park, and the most visited place on Easter Island. Orongo was the centre of the birdman cult, established in the 18th and 19th centuries. In an attempt to restore the society after the collapse of the moai culture, clans would gather at the village each year, and their champions would compete in a kind of triathlon to elect the island's religious leader. Orongo Village consists of some 53 elliptically-shaped houses with shale walls and a small square entry overlooking the ocean, where the clans would live during the ceremonies. A memento of the last period of ancient times, Orongo is an historical landmark in the Rapa Nui culture. Following a guided walking tour of Orongo Village, continue on for a visit to the impressive Ahu Akivi.

The restored Ahu Akivi with it's 7 Moais was built in the middle of the island. The legend tells us that these statues are representing the 7 explorers who were sent to Rapa Nui by the King Hotu Matua.

Return drive to the pier.

The ancient history, culture and traditions of Easter Island are yours to discover during this picturesque, full-day, World Cruise Collection sightseeing excursion.

Easter Island, Ahu Tahai, Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure

Newly-designed especially for our valued World Cruise guests, your World Cruise Collection tour begins with a short drive to Ahu Tahai. Located just outside Hanga Roa Town and adjacent to the cemetery, Ahu Tahai is a complex consisting of three different ahu sites; Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Ure and Ahu Tahai. Ahu Ko Te Riku features a beautiful, single statue placed on a platform dating from 690 B.C. The statue is in good condition, and has white eyeballs with dark pupils. Ahu Vai Ure is home to five different statues whereas Ahu Tahai, named after the entire complex, has a single large moai. Restored in the late-1960s and dating from the 6th century, it is believed that this complex is one of the oldest ancient statue sites on Rapa Nui. Leaving Ahu Tahai, re-board your coach and continue on to the Rano Raraku Volcano.

Rano Raraku Volcano, Statuary, Volcanic Crater, Garden, Artisan Market

Upon arrival at the Rano Raraku Volcano, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, take a guided, approximately 765-yard (about 700-metre) trek up the walls of the volcano, where 95% of the moais were carved. Here, discover 394 statues in various stages of completion. You can explore deeper by following a second, steep trail up to the crater of the volcano, where a quarry was excavated to create nearly all of the existing, immense moais. The volcano's crater has a depth of over 164 feet (about 50 metres) and 200-foot-high (about 61-metre-high) walls, thus creating a natural reservoir used throughout time by the islanders. It conserves an enclosed garden of priceless Polynesian and native species that create an appropriate microclimate for the main preserve of flora on the island. At the foot of the volcano is an artisan market.

Ahu Tongariki, Huge Moai, Vertical Sea Cliffs, Blue Waves Breaking on Them

Next, continue on for a visit to Ahu Tongariki. This magnificent platform is the largest ahu on the island and home to 15 moai, the heaviest of which weighs a whopping 86 tons (about 78 metric tons). This site was completely destroyed by a tsunami in 1960, but the ahu was restored from 1992-1995 by the University of Chile. The landscape is breath-taking; huge, almost vertical sea cliffs comprise the shores, and the blue waves breaking on them makes for a splendid photo opportunity. Leaving Ahu Tongariki, head to Anakena Beach.

Anakena Beach, Ahu, Lunch, Rapa Nui Music and Dancing, Free Time, Swimming, Ahu Akivi

The most famous beach on the island, Anakena features warm, crystal-clear waters, white sands, luminosity, and coral sand-bed. Here, the expeditionary groups of Ariki (King) Hotumatua arrived, the first settlers of the island. It also was the habitable centre of the ancient government, and school of the ancient Maori (teachers). Upon arrival, find two, totally-restored Ahu (Ahu Nau and Ahu Ature Huki). Learn about the mystery of the moai, including the meaning of becoming living monuments and protectors of their people by installing the white coral in the cleft of the eyes. A buffet lunch is followed by a performance of Rapa Nui music and dances. Afterward, some free time is made available for a dip in the ocean. Your World Cruise Collection tour concludes with brief stop at Ahu Akivi, and a short drive back to the pier.

SANTIAGO SIMPLY HOTEL

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.

Sheraton Santiago Hotel and Convention Center

Sheraton Santiago Hotel and Convention Center is the largest hotel in Chile with 525 rooms available in all categories. Located in the midst of parks and gardens, just 15 minutes away from the city's international airport, features first-class services and awarded cuisine. Explore the best spots for Premium shopping, taste some of the finest wines in the globe and relax at our beautiful outdoor pool area on a sunny summer day.

Hotel Santiago by Mandarin

The Singular Hotels form a collection of unique hotels in search of maintaining the identity of its surroundings, paying tribute to the history behind each location integrating to its essence. A space where you are able to be immersed in different experiences, where local products are used to offer a sophisticated cuisine, in an elegant yet simple setting with a personalised service. The meaning of luxury is the blend between what connects us to nature, culture and history, and the continuous search for unique travel experiences with a personalized service.

Hotel Santiago by Mandarin

As one of the most luxurious hotels in South America, Hotel Santiago enjoys a reputation for style, service and outstanding facilities. Located in the exclusive neighbourhood of Las Condes, and with a choice of award-winning restaurants, beautiful rooms and an outdoor pool, we offer the perfect base for your Santiago stay.

SANTIAGO GRANDE HOTEL

The Grande Hotel is for those who want to begin or prolong their Silversea holiday - luxury accommodations, exclusive service and impeccable attention to detail in style. Grande Hotel guests appreciate the finer things in life. These properties have been chosen not only for their prime location but for their outstanding service and their exceptional quality.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel groups that are frequently featured in our program include Shangri-La, Four Seasons, Peninsula or Fairmont to name just a few.