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The people of Rapa Nui have long fought the Chilean government for their rights and the protection of their land, history, and homes. The profits of tourism benefit the island economy and the Chilean government, but the tolls of tourism—pollution, overcrowding, etc—are taken by the locals, the people who have lived their like their family before them.

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Known as the premier spot to catch on a sunset on Easter Island, Ahu Tahai has three separate moais guarding the western coast of the island near Hanga Roa. This one with restored eyes and a hat provides a glimpse into the past through its blend of old history with new restoration aiding our creative imagination of Ko Te Riku in its own time.

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The volcano on Rapa Nui’s north side, Rano Raraku, was the quarry from which all Moai are believed to have originated. Carved straight out of the mountain, the mystery remains as to how these stone statues weighing over a ton were transported from this volcano to their guardian posts around the island.

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A close up of one of the moai that didn’t make it too far from his originating source.

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A closer look into how the moai were carved right out of the volcanic rock before being transported to their guardian posts along the island.

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Sometimes the lens flare is a vibe.

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Inside the Rano Raraku crater, the headquarters of the moat carving operation. Moai off in the distance, horses roaming wild, and the crater overrun with the bloom of nature.

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Love the way this moai appears to be smoking, catching that ethereal + smoking + magical quality from the clouds.

Outside the Anthropology Museum of Rapa Nui.

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Arguably the most renowned of the Ahus on Rapa Nui, Ahu Tongariki boasts 15 Moai that have been arranged here for a breathtaking display of anthropological beauty.

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4 of the 15 Moai guarding the East coast of Rapa Nui

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Secret vantage from the caves of Ana Kakenga

Here at Anakena Beach is Ahu Nau Nau, with its 7 moan guarding the northern coast of Rapa Nui. The first settlement of Rapa Nui is believed to have been here on the northern coast, which later served as a ceremonial headquarters for island tribes.

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