Ahu Tautira

Rapa Nui (Easter Island)


If you've just arrived and can't wait for your first encounter with the moai (large anthropomorphic statues), head straight to Ahu Tautira. This site overlooks Caleta Hanga Roa, the fishing port in Hanga Roa at the foot of Av Te Pito o Te Henua. Here you'll find a single ahu (ceremonial platform) with two superb moai.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rapa Nui (Easter Island) attractions

1. Caleta Hanga Roa

0.03 MILES

Your first encounter with the moai will probably take place at Ahu Tautira, which overlooks Caleta Hanga Roa, the fishing port in Hanga Roa at the foot of…

2. Playa Pea

0.07 MILES

For a little dip, the tiny beach at Playa Pea, on the south side of Caleta Hanga Roa, fits the bill (though it's more of a rocky cove than a sandy oasis).

3. Iglesia Hanga Roa

0.42 MILES

The unmissable Iglesia Hanga Roa, the island's Catholic church, is well worth a visit for its spectacular carvings, which integrate Christian doctrine…

4. Ahu Tahai

0.58 MILES

Ahu Tahai is a highly photogenic site that contains three restored ahu (ceremonial platform). Ahu Tahai proper is the ahu in the middle, supporting a…

5. Caleta Hanga Piko

0.69 MILES

Easily overlooked by visitors, the little Caleta Hanga Piko is used by local fishers. Facing away from the caleta, the restored Ahu Riata supports a…

7. Ahu Akapu

1.01 MILES

You'll find this ahu with a solitary moai along the coastline, north of Hanga Roa.

8. Ana Kai Tangata

1.23 MILES

This vast cave carved into black cliffs sports beautiful rock paintings with birdman motifs. However, when we passed through it was closed due to falling…