Motu Nui
Motu Nui: A remote island sanctuary, famed for seabirds and the ancient Birdman cult, inspiring Disney's Moana.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for birdwatching
Motu Nui
Best Time
Best for birdwatching
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Motu Nui: A remote island sanctuary, famed for seabirds and the ancient Birdman cult, inspiring Disney's Moana.
"Experience the island that inspired Moana and delve into the history of the Birdman cult."
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Rapa Nui for access. Expect a 3-hour journey each way.
Respect Wildlife
Observe seabirds from a distance and avoid disturbing their nests.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seabird Sanctuary
Throughout the island
Observe diverse seabirds in their natural habitat. A key feature for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Tangata Manu (Birdman) Site
Ceremonial grounds
Explore the historical grounds of the ancient Birdman cult competition, a significant cultural site.
Moana Inspiration
Island vistas
Experience the island that inspired the breathtaking landscapes of Disney's Moana.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Vibe & Moana Magic
Getting to Motu Nui
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Rapa Nui for access. Expect a 3-hour journey each way.
Respect Wildlife
Observe seabirds from a distance and avoid disturbing their nests.
Moana Connection
Imagine the scenes from Moana as you explore this beautiful island.
Sun Protection
The sun is strong; bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Essential
Book a boat tour from Rapa Nui for access. Expect a 3-hour journey each way.
Respect Wildlife
Observe seabirds from a distance and avoid disturbing their nests.
Moana Connection
Imagine the scenes from Moana as you explore this beautiful island.
Sun Protection
The sun is strong; bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Motu Nui to be a beautiful and historically significant island, particularly appealing to fans of Moana and those interested in its Birdman cult heritage. While the long boat journey is a notable aspect, the unique natural environment and cultural insights make it a worthwhile excursion for many.
"This island is actually quite nice. It would be very strange if it turned out to be the face of a giant robot laying dormant underwater"
Denis Masanin
"Nice ocean paradise to land your plane on the beach. I found a secluded waterfall and discovered Harrison Ford pulling out a snake from Anne Heche's pants."
B. Justin Trencio
"Beautiful Island but some big guy with Tattoos kept singing while an old lady started dancing by the sea and a girl talked to the water while her chicken ate a rock. Very interesting"
B u n n y
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Motu Nui is accessible by boat from Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Boat tours are the primary way to visit, and the journey typically takes about three hours each way.
No, Motu Nui does not have an airport. Visitors must fly into Mataveri International Airport on Rapa Nui and then arrange boat transportation.
The boat ride from Rapa Nui to Motu Nui can take approximately three hours.
Independent travel to Motu Nui is difficult as it requires boat access. It's best to join an organized tour that includes transportation.
Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and a camera. Consider motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Motu Nui is typically included as part of a boat tour package from Rapa Nui. It's advisable to book your tour in advance.
Motu Nui is an uninhabited island, and access is generally determined by tour operators' schedules. Daytime visits are standard.
While there isn't a specific 'entrance fee' for the island itself, the cost of the boat tour will cover your access.
It's recommended to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and wildlife. There are no specific entry restrictions beyond those imposed by tour operators.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning ocean vistas, the rugged coastline, and the diverse seabirds. The island's natural beauty offers many picturesque opportunities.
Absolutely! Motu Nui is a haven for seabirds, making it an excellent location for wildlife photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Drone regulations can be strict in protected areas. It's best to check with your tour operator or local authorities regarding drone usage.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for sweeping ocean views.
While not a direct filming location, the island's dramatic cliffs and ocean views evoke the spirit of Moana, offering a magical backdrop for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the boat journey is long (about 3 hours each way), so ensure children are prepared with snacks, entertainment, and sun protection. The island is rugged, so supervise young children closely. It's a fantastic opportunity to teach kids about nature, history, and conservation in a memorable setting.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Rapa Nui
Be prepared for a significant portion of your day to be dedicated to travel, as the boat ride is approximately three hours each way. Pack accordingly for sun exposure and bring plenty of water. This trip offers a distinct natural and historical perspective away from the main Rapa Nui attractions.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Beyond the birds, the pristine marine environment surrounding Motu Nui is also noteworthy. The boat journey itself often provides chances to spot dolphins and other marine life. It's a chance to immerse yourself in a relatively untouched natural landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birdman Cult of Rapa Nui
Visiting Motu Nui offers a tangible connection to this fascinating past. While the competition is no longer practiced, the island's rugged terrain and the presence of seabirds serve as a constant reminder of its storied history. It's a place where archaeology and nature intertwine, offering a unique perspective on Polynesian culture.
Many visitors find the historical context of Motu Nui to be one of its most compelling aspects. Understanding the Birdman cult adds a layer of depth to the experience, transforming a scenic boat trip into a journey through time.
Motu Nui: An Inspiration for Moana
Travelers often feel a sense of wonder exploring Motu Nui, imagining the scenes from the beloved Disney movie. The island's remote and untouched feel perfectly captures the adventurous spirit of Moana's journey. It's a place where cinematic dreams meet natural reality, offering a unique experience for fans of the film.
For those who grew up with Moana, visiting Motu Nui can be a particularly magical experience. It's a chance to connect with the film on a deeper level and appreciate the real-world landscapes that sparked such a beloved story.
Wildlife Encounters on Motu Nui
The island's cliffs and surrounding waters provide essential nesting and feeding grounds for these marine birds. For nature enthusiasts and photographers, Motu Nui offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. It's important to remember that this is a natural habitat, and visitors should practice responsible tourism by observing birds from a distance and refraining from disturbing them or their nests.
While the primary draw is the seabirds, the surrounding ocean also teems with marine life, adding to the overall natural appeal of the excursion. The journey to Motu Nui itself often provides glimpses of dolphins and other marine creatures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit