Tahai Ceremonial Complex
Iconic Moai statues and breathtaking sunsets at this free, accessible ceremonial complex on Easter Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Tahai Ceremonial Complex
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Moai statues and breathtaking sunsets at this free, accessible ceremonial complex on Easter Island.
"A perfect place to watch the sunset in this island. It’s free, no guide needed."
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure your prime viewing spot for the sunset as it gets crowded quickly. Best photos are taken just before sunset.
📸 Free Moai Viewing
Enjoy close-up views of Moai without needing a ticket or guide. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ahu Ko Te Riku
Tahai Ceremonial Complex
The only Moai on Easter Island with restored eyes, gazing out towards the sea. A truly captivating sight.
Sunset Views
Tahai Ceremonial Complex
Witness the magical sunset behind the Moai platforms. A breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
Ahu Tahai
Tahai Ceremonial Complex
A single, somewhat eroded Moai stands stoically on its platform, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunset Spectacle & Free Entry
Moai Up Close, No Guide Needed
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure your prime viewing spot for the sunset as it gets crowded quickly. Best photos are taken just before sunset.
📸 Free Moai Viewing
Enjoy close-up views of Moai without needing a ticket or guide. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Beyond the Moai, enjoy beautiful coastal views and stone relics. A peaceful walk awaits.
👀 Moai with Eyes
Don't miss Ahu Ko Te Riku, the only Moai on the island with restored eyes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunset
Secure your prime viewing spot for the sunset as it gets crowded quickly. Best photos are taken just before sunset.
📸 Free Moai Viewing
Enjoy close-up views of Moai without needing a ticket or guide. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coastline
Beyond the Moai, enjoy beautiful coastal views and stone relics. A peaceful walk awaits.
👀 Moai with Eyes
Don't miss Ahu Ko Te Riku, the only Moai on the island with restored eyes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tahai Ceremonial Complex for its stunning sunset views and the opportunity to see Moai up close without needing a ticket or guide. It's praised as an accessible and beautiful introduction to Easter Island's iconic statues, though it can get crowded during peak sunset times.
"There are beautifully restored Moai here on the front in Hanga Roa. And there is no need for a tour guide to see these particular Moai (unlike the Moais in the National Park away from Hanga Roa where it is Mandatory to have an authorised guide).
Go to this area to see the sunset behind these Moais... a wonderful sight."
Tony Finn
"A perfect place to watch the sunset in this island. It’s free, no guide needed. Many people chilling so secure your place to watch the very beautiful quick sunset picture at this location."
Nonette CDO
"This is one of the few areas where you don't need to buy any tickets or hire a guide and can just simply enjoy the rocky coast of the island. This area contains a good mix of things to see; there are stone relics with carvings, beautiful coastal views (where you can see the sunset), few Moais, and nearby restaurants, hotels and shops."
Annie Ho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tahai Ceremonial Complex is located on the western coast of Easter Island, near Hanga Roa. It's easily accessible by foot, car, or taxi from the main town. Many visitors walk from Hanga Roa, enjoying the coastal scenery along the way.
Tahai is conveniently located just a short distance from Hanga Roa, the island's main settlement. It's a pleasant walk, making it easy to visit without needing special transportation.
Yes, you can drive to Tahai Ceremonial Complex. There is usually parking available nearby, making it convenient for those who have rented a car or are using a taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, unlike many other archaeological sites on Easter Island, Tahai Ceremonial Complex is free to enter. You do not need to purchase a park ticket to visit this site.
A guide is not mandatory for visiting Tahai Ceremonial Complex. You can explore the site and admire the Moai at your own pace without hiring a guide.
Tahai Ceremonial Complex is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening, especially for sunset viewing. There are no strict opening or closing hours posted, as it's an open archaeological site.
📸 📸 Photography
The late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers the most magical light for photography at Tahai. The golden hour casts a beautiful glow on the Moai and the coastline.
Absolutely! Ahu Ko Te Riku at Tahai is famous for its Moai with restored eyes, making it a unique and highly photogenic subject.
Generally, photography is allowed at Tahai Ceremonial Complex. However, always be respectful of the historical site and avoid touching the Moai or disturbing the area.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Tahai features three Ahu (ceremonial platforms) with Moai: Ahu Vai Uri, Ahu Ko Te Riku (with eyes), and Ahu Tahai (a single, eroded Moai). You'll also find stone relics and beautiful coastal views. 
Yes, Tahai is renowned as one of the best spots on Easter Island to watch the sunset. The Moai silhouetted against the colorful sky create a spectacular scene.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate Tahai, especially if you plan to stay for the sunset. This allows time for exploring the different Ahu and enjoying the coastal scenery.
While Tahai is an open archaeological site, there might be limited facilities. It's advisable to use restrooms in Hanga Roa before you visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relatively short walking distance from Hanga Roa also makes it manageable for younger children. Remember to bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited. The open space allows children to explore safely while supervised. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best light for photography is during the late afternoon and sunset, when the golden hour illuminates the statues and the coastline. Be prepared for crowds during sunset and consider arriving early to find the best angles. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Moai of Tahai: A Closer Look
Adjacent to Ahu Ko Te Riku is Ahu Tahai, featuring a single, somewhat eroded Moai. This statue offers a more raw and weathered perspective, hinting at the passage of time and the elements. The third platform, Ahu Vai Uri, also contributes to the impressive display of these monumental sculptures. Together, these Moai at Tahai provide a compelling and accessible introduction to the artistry and spiritual significance of the Rapa Nui people's creations.
Unlike many other major Moai sites on Rapa Nui, Tahai is free to access and does not require a guided tour. This makes it an incredibly popular spot for visitors to get up close with these iconic statues and capture stunning photographs, especially during the golden hours.
Sunset Magic at Tahai
Due to its popularity, Tahai can become quite crowded during sunset hours. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a good vantage point and ensure they have ample space to enjoy the view. The moments just before the sun dips below the horizon are often considered the most photogenic, offering a dramatic and awe-inspiring scene.
Experiencing the sunset at Tahai is a quintessential Easter Island moment. It's a time when the island's profound history and natural beauty converge, offering a peaceful yet powerful connection to the past and the stunning environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit