An authentic way to discover the island’s ancestral territory
Horseback riding in Rapa Nui is one of the most traditional and respectful ways to explore the island. Riding a horse across this remote corner of the Pacific—one of the most isolated inhabited places on Earth—offers a deeper understanding of its geography, history, and strong connection to ancestral culture.
Unlike visiting archaeological sites only by road, horseback riding takes you along ancient trails once used by the island’s inhabitants. From coastal paths where the raw power of the ocean is ever-present to inland routes surrounded by extinct volcanoes, this experience provides a closer and more immersive perspective on Rapa Nui life and landscape.
Why go horseback riding in Rapa Nui?
1. A deep connection to ancestral land
Horses have been part of daily life in Rapa Nui for generations. Many of today’s riding routes cross land once traveled by families and communities in the past. Riding these trails helps you understand how the Rapanui people related to their environment—and how that relationship shaped their culture.
2. Access to routes few visitors experience
Several areas of Rapa Nui can only be reached on foot or on horseback. These routes lead to natural viewpoints, dramatic cliffs, caves, and lesser-known archaeological sites. One of the most memorable highlights is riding while the vast Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly before you.
3. The perfect pace to observe and learn
At a horse’s pace, there’s time to truly observe the island’s vegetation, rock formations, archaeological remains, and volcanic landscapes. This is an ideal experience for travelers who enjoy history and prefer to explore slowly, with depth and meaning.
Recommended horseback riding routes in Rapa Nui
While there are several options available, some of the most popular routes include:
• Northern Coast of Rapa Nui
Coastal rides that follow cliffs and natural viewpoints, offering stunning views of the Pacific and a strong sense of the island’s isolation and natural power.
• Terevaka Area
The highest point on the island. Riding along wide, safe trails, you can reach panoramic 360° viewpoints and clearly see that Rapa Nui is completely surrounded by ocean.
• Trails to remote archaeological sites
Some routes connect to ahu, caves, and ceremonial sites located outside the main tourist circuit—perfect for visitors interested in archaeology and Rapanui history.
Horseback Riding with Easter Island Travel (EIT)
At Easter Island Travel, we offer guided horseback riding experiences led by knowledgeable local experts. Our routes are designed to help you learn, enjoy, and respect the environment without impacting the territory.
Our guides share insights about:
- The role of horses in modern Rapa Nui life
- Traditional stories and uses of ancestral trails
- The archaeological significance of each area
- Volcanic geology and landscape features
- How to explore the island respectfully
Each ride is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced riders.
Tips for enjoying your horseback ride in Rapa Nui
- Wear comfortable shoes and long pants
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—the sun can be intense
- Always follow your local guide’s instructions
- Respect protected areas and archaeological sites
- If you’re new to riding, choose shorter routes to start
An authentic way to experience Rapa Nui
Horseback riding in Rapa Nui is more than a recreational activity—it’s a unique way to understand the land, admire the vast Pacific from above, and feel the deep connection between the island, its history, and its landscape.
If you’d like to include this experience in your itinerary, Easter Island Travel can help you choose the ideal route based on your level, interests, and available time.
Visiting Rapa Nui is one of the most powerful, mystical, and memorable experiences you can have. To make your trip smooth, safe, and truly meaningful, it’s essential to rely on an agency that understands the requirements, permits, routes, and all the local details.
At Easter Island Travel, we are that agency. With local expertise, certified guides, and recognition as the #1 agency on TripAdvisor, our mission is not just to take you to Easter Island… but to help you feel it, live it, and remember it forever.
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