Full day Private Tour: Poike Walk through the abandoned area

Explore the Remote Corners of Rapa Nui with a Full-Day Private Tour

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots and truly connect with the mysterious island of Rapa Nui, the Full Day Private Tour: Poike Walk through the abandoned area is a fantastic choice. Priced at $219 per person and lasting around 4 to 5 hours, this trip takes you to the island’s most remote and less visited spots—places that even many local guides rarely show visitors. Led by experienced guides, you’ll visit hidden caves, volcanic peaks, and a uniquely turned-over moai, giving you a rare glimpse into the island’s secrets.

Two things stand out immediately about this tour. First, the intimate, private setting allows for personalized attention and flexibility, which makes the experience more meaningful. Second, the focus on authenticity—visiting ancestral sites and caves not often included in larger group tours—means you get a deeper understanding of Rapa Nui’s culture and landscape. The only potential drawback? The tour involves some walking over uneven terrain and moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for travelers in decent shape.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who crave off-the-beaten-path adventures and want to learn about the island from a local’s perspective. If you appreciate discovering historical sites in solitude and value authentic, guided insights, this would be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to the most remote areas of Rapa Nui, including caves and volcanic sites
• Personalized experience with a private guide, allowing for customized stops and questions
• Authentic cultural insights into ancestral kitchens, caves, and moai with little intervention
• Two significant stops: Ana O Keke cave and Poike Volcano, both offering stunning views and history
• Controversial Moai: Vai a Heva face, with its upside-down face and open mouth, sparks curiosity
• Good value for travelers seeking in-depth exploration away from crowds

A Deep Dive into the Poike Walk Private Tour

This tour is a true treasure for those wanting an authentic and intimate exploration of Rapa Nui’s less-visited sites. The journey begins with a pickup at your accommodation in Hanga Roa, setting the tone for a personalized experience. Once underway, your guide—whose familiarity with the island’s hidden corners is evident—will take you to Ana O Keke, a stunning yet mysterious cave located in one of the most remote areas of the island.

Visiting Ana O Keke: The Hidden Cave

The first stop is at Ana O Keke, a captivating cave that’s both visually stunning and steeped in quiet intrigue. Hidden away in an area few travelers venture to, it presents an excellent opportunity for quiet reflection and photography. You’ll spend about two hours here, exploring the cave’s interior and absorbing its tranquil atmosphere. Best of all, access is included with no extra admission fee, making this a cost-effective yet enriching experience. One reviewer described their visit as “a beautiful and mysterious cave,” emphasizing how well the guide knew where to find this hidden gem.

Climbing the Poike Volcano

Next, you’ll ascend to Poike Volcano, one of the highest volcanic features on the island. The views from here are impressive—over the rugged landscape, coastline, and distant hills. Walking around the volcano provides insight into the island’s volcanic origins, and the experience should take about two hours. Since Poike is less frequented compared to other volcanoes, you’ll enjoy a sense of solitude and connection with the landscape. The landscape here is stark but beautiful, with the contrast of volcanic rock and lush patches. This stop offers a perspective on the island’s geological past that’s both educational and visually rewarding.

The Mysterious Vai a Heva Face Moai

The highlight for many is Vai a Heva, a moai with a striking twist. This statue is unique because its face is turned upside down, and it’s the only moai on the island with its mouth open, adding an element of mystery and controversy. Spending about an hour here, you’ll get a close look at this enigmatic figure, pondering what it might represent. Your guide will share insights into the ongoing debates about its symbolism and origin, which adds to the experience’s depth.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

This private tour offers a flexible, relaxed pace, allowing ample time at each location to explore and ask questions. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness—walking over uneven terrain, slopes, and some rocky paths is involved, but it’s manageable for most active travelers. Transportation is arranged by the tour provider, saving you the hassle of navigating publicly or renting a vehicle.

The price of $219 includes personalized attention, expert guiding, and access to sites that are often overlooked. Since it’s a private experience, only your group will participate, ensuring a more intimate discovery of the island’s secrets.

What the Reviews Say

Both reviewers praised the personal attention and the carefully selected sites. One mentioned, “Tremendo personal, están bien escogidos los lugares que visitamos, nos vamos con muy buenas experiencias,” highlighting the quality of the guide and the itinerary. Another described their trip as “un viaje maravilloso” and appreciated the overall attention and care provided, which made their visit memorable. These comments suggest the tour offers genuine value, especially for travelers eager to see the island in a more authentic and personal manner.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book well in advance—on average, this tour is reserved about 197 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain and moderate hiking.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat, as you’ll be exposed to the sun during most stops.
• Consider your physical fitness level—there’s some walking over rugged ground, but the pace is customizable.
• The tour offers pickup, so confirm your accommodation details when booking.
• It’s weather-dependent—if rain or wind threaten, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered if canceled due to weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a deep, personal connection with Rapa Nui’s less-visited sites. If you’re curious about local legends, volcanic geology, and ancient moai in unusual contexts, this tour will satisfy those interests. It’s perfect for those who prefer small, private groups over crowded excursions and value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Final Thoughts

The Poike Walk through the abandoned area offers a chance to see Rapa Nui’s hidden corners, far from the tourist crowds. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the island’s geological origins, mysterious statues, and ancestral sites in a setting that feels both personal and profound. It’s a genuine way to deepen your understanding of the island’s history and landscape while enjoying the quiet beauty of remote sites few others get to see.

While the modest price might seem steep at first glance, the value is clear—you gain exclusive access, expert insights, and a memorable experience that goes beyond just ticking boxes. This tour is especially well-suited for adventurous travelers eager for authenticity and discovery, those who want to walk away with stories of their own instead of just photographs.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Some walking over uneven terrain or slopes is involved, but the pace is manageable.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 4 to 5 hours, including travel time between sites and time for exploration.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provider arranges pickup from your accommodation, so you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Ana O Keke cave, Poike Volcano, and the Vai a Heva face moai, each offering unique photos and insights.

Are there extra costs involved?
No, sites like Ana O Keke and Poike Volcano do not require additional admission fees. It’s included in the tour price.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, if the weather is poor and the tour is canceled, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and any personal items needed for walking and outdoor exposure.

Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

This carefully curated Poike Walk tour invites you to see Rapa Nui’s quieter, more mysterious side. Its combination of natural beauty, archaeological intrigue, and personalized attention makes it a memorable way to explore the island’s less-visited corners. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful adventure, this tour promises a meaningful glimpse into the island’s soul.