Learn about the principles of basic astronomy, the history of Polynesian voyaging and settlement, navigational techniques and the archeo-astronomy of Rapa Nui. Head out to some of the island's traditional observatory sites to gaze at the night sky and view stars and constellations visible only in the Southern Hemisphere.

Your guide will point out stars and constellations of interest to the Polynesian navigators, relating some of the stories and legends that are tied to them, and explain techniques on how to find certain cardinal points of the traditional Polynesian compass by using the layout of the night sky. Look at the beauty of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, stars and planets visible through our high-powered telescope before of heading to Anakena Beach for photos.

Rapa Nui Stargazing

Learn about the principles of basic astronomy, the history of Polynesian voyaging and settlement, navigational techniques and the archeo-astronomy of Rapa Nui. Gaze at the night sky and view stars and constellations visible only in the Southern Hemisphere.

Your guide will point out stars and constellations of interest to the Polynesian navigators, relating some of the stories and legends that are tied to them, and explaining the techniques on how to find certain cardinal points of the traditional Polynesian compass by using the layout of the night sky. Look at the beauty of star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, stars and planets visible through our high-powered telescope before heading to Anakena Beach with the option of taking spectacular shots of the star-filled sky moai in the foreground. Finish the night with a hot beverage and a slice of local cake.

IMPORTANT: Photos are intended for personal, non-commercial use only, and photos cannot be used for profit (see Mau Henua rules)

The Rapa Nui Stargazing Experience

For avid photographers and enthusiasts, our photography tours aim to get the best light at the best times. Astrophotography is one option, but we also run day photo tours (beginning before sunrise and running through to mid morning, or beginning in the afternoon and running through to sunset). 

 You will be with a knowledgeable guide who will also be able to tell you about the history of the island, although more focus is on the photography. 

We can do both places (Anakena & Ahu Tongariki) for Stars to Sunrise tours and more places on Day Photo tours. 

IMPORTANT: Photography tours are intended for personal, non-commercial use only, and photos cannot be used for profit.

Half-day Tours in Easter Island

Rapa Nui Stargazing

The Rapa Nui Stargazing Experience

Astrophotography in Easter Island