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Archaeological site · Hanga Roa, Valparaíso
Puna Pau
Small crater on the outskirts of Hanga Roa, from which the red scoria used for the pukao, the stone headdresses placed on the heads of some moai, was quarried.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Puna Pau
Puna Pau is a small volcanic cone east of Hanga Roa, on the road inland. Inside the crater is the quarry of red scoria, a light, porous stone. It was the source from which the Rapa Nui extracted this material, and the site’s name gives its name to one of the sectors of Parque Nacional Rapa Nui.
From Puna Pau scoria the pukao were carved, the red cylinders that sat on the heads of some moai, such as those at Anakena and the one at Ko Te Riku in Tahai. The same stone appears in petroglyphs and in some atypical statues. On the slope there are still pukao that never left the site.
A short trail climbs to the rim of the crater, with views over Hanga Roa, Rano Kau and the ocean. The site is visited on the same route as Ahu Akivi.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the low sun brings out the red of the stone. The trail is short but exposed: avoid the midday sun in summer.
How to get there
It is about 2 km from downtown Hanga Roa, on the road that leads to Ahu Akivi. Visits are conducted with an accredited guide.
Tip
Notice the difference in color and texture between the red scoria here and the gray tuff of Rano Raraku. Follow the marked trail and do not step on the pukao.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Puna Pau
What are the pukao?
They are the red stone cylinders placed on top of some moai's heads, like a headdress or bun. They were carved from the scoria at Puna Pau.
Is Puna Pau near Hanga Roa?
Yes, about 2 km from the center, on the way to Ahu Akivi. The two sites are often visited together.
Is the trail at Puna Pau difficult?
No. It's a short climb to the crater rim, but there's no shade: bring water and a hat.