Ahu Akahanga
A group of moai on the south coast that remain fallen as they were during tribal wars. The site is said to be the burial place of the first king, Hotu Matu'a.
Akahanga lies on the south coast. Several moai on the platform remain in the state they were in when they were pushed face-down during tribal wars. They have not been restored, so you can see directly how the moai fell and the scattered pukao. Around them are the foundations of boat-shaped houses, stone-lined cooking pits and remains of chicken houses, forming a complete ancient village site. Rapa Nui oral tradition holds that this is the burial place of the legendary first king, Hotu Matu'a. The site is in the national park fee zone, and entry requires a national park ticket and a licensed guide (subject to current regulations). It sits beside the south coast road from Hanga Roa to Tongariki, about a 20-minute drive by car.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–18:00 (per park rules)
Nearby sights
- Ahu Vaihu (Hanga Te'e)
- Rano Raraku
- Ahu Tongariki
- Ahu Huri a Urenga
- Puna Pau
- Ahu Akivi
- Papa Vaka Petroglyphs
- Te Pito Kura (Navel of the World)