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Archaeological site · Hanga Roa, Valparaíso
Tahai
Seaside ceremonial complex north of downtown Hanga Roa, with three restored ahu and Ko Te Riku, the moai with coral eyes. The island's most popular spot to watch the sunset.
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 Tahai
Tahai is on the coast, within walking distance of downtown Hanga Roa. The complex includes three ahu restored in 1974 by American archaeologist William Mulloy, who is buried there with his wife. To the south, Ahu Vai Ure has five moai side by side; in the middle, Ahu Tahai has a single statue; to the north, Ahu Ko Te Riku supports a moai with white coral eyes and a red stone pukao.
The name Tahai is translated as the place where the sun hides. Because the moai have their backs to the sea, the sunset happens behind them, and the grass around fills with people in the late afternoon. Near the platforms there is a stone ramp that once led down to the sea and the remains of old houses.
Tahai is one of the park areas you can visit without a guide, and it is next to the Museo Antropológico Padre Sebastián Englert. The visit pairs well with a walk along the coast from the caleta of Hanga Roa.
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 an hour; longer if you wait for the sunset.
Best time
Late afternoon is the traditional time, with the sun setting behind the moai. From December to March the sun sets very late; from June to September, earlier. Arrive in advance to choose a spot.
How to get there
It's about 1 km from downtown Hanga Roa: you can walk along the coastal road, passing the caleta.
Tip
Sit on the grass, not on the stones of the platforms. Bring a jacket because it gets chilly when the sun sets. Visit the nearby museum first, while there's still daylight.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tahai
Do you need a guide to go to Tahai?
No: Tahai is one of the park areas that is usually exempt from the guide requirement. Rules can change; confirm before going.
Which moai at Tahai has eyes?
The moai at Ahu Ko Te Riku, the northernmost one, was restored with white coral eyes and a red stone pukao.
Who restored Tahai?
The archaeologist William Mulloy, in 1974. He and his wife are buried at the site itself.