Puna Pau

An ancient ceremonial site in the western part of Easter Island known for its red scoria stone topknots (pukao) that crowned the moai. The quarry contains numerous moai and topknot fragments in various stages of completion.

Things to do

• Explore the Moai Workshop — Walk among dozens of unfinished moai statues scattered across the quarry to understand the carving and production process.
• Study Pukao Topknots — Examine the distinctive red scoria stone cylindrical crowns that were quarried here and transported to ahu across the island.
• Visit the Restored Ahu Complex — See the nearby ceremonial platform with reconstructed moai and topknots that demonstrate how statues appeared when completed and positioned.
• Photograph Sunset Views — Capture dramatic evening light across the red stone fragments and completed statues from the western vantage points of the site.
• Hike to Tool Scatter Areas — Trek across the quarry grounds to locate ancient basalt tool marks and abandoned stone implements used by carvers.
• Attend Ranger-Led Interpretation — Join guided tours explaining the archaeological significance, carving techniques, and theories about statue transportation methods.

Food to try

• Umu Oven Meals — Earth-oven cooked dishes featuring fresh fish, sweet potato, and taro that reflect traditional Rapa Nui cooking methods still used in the region.
• Fresh Tuna Ceviche — Raw Pacific tuna cured in citrus juice and served with local peppers and cilantro at nearby lodges and restaurants in Hanga Roa.
• Kumara (Sweet Potato) Dishes — Staple root vegetable prepared grilled or in stews, representing pre-Columbian Polynesian agriculture still cultivated on the island.
• Seafood at Coastal Restaurants — Local establishments near the western coast serve freshly caught langosta (spiny lobster) and fish caught that morning.
• Banana and Coconut Desserts — Tropical fruit-based sweets reflecting the island's Polynesian heritage, often served at cultural centers near the archaeological sites.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Rope Boundaries — Stay behind designated barriers to protect fragile moai and prevent soil erosion around irreplaceable carved stones.
• Visit with a Guide — Hire a trained local guide who can contextualize the site within Rapa Nui cosmology and explain the ahu-moai ceremonial system.
• Acknowledge Indigenous Ownership — The site is sacred to the Rapa Nui people; approach with respect and avoid touching statues unless explicitly permitted by staff.
• Wear Sun and Wind Protection — The treeless quarry offers no shade and experiences strong Pacific winds; bring hat, sunscreen, and a jacket even on clear days.