The official dates for Tapati Rapa Nui 2026, taking place from February 3 to 14, 2026, have been confirmed, marking the beginning of preparations for one of the most important cultural events in the entire Pacific. If you’re thinking about traveling and experiencing this celebration up close, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip.

During Tapati, Rapa Nui transforms: families, communities, and participants come together in traditional competitions, dances, songs, arts, ancestral sports, and ceremonies that honor their cultural identity.

It’s a unique opportunity to experience the island in a deeply community-driven and meaningful context.

Plan Ahead — LATAM Is the Only Airline That Flies to Rapa Nui

If you plan to attend Tapati 2026, keep in mind that LATAM is the only airline that flies to Rapa Nui, offering direct flights from Santiago. Seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during this high-demand season.

We recommend booking your flights as early as possible to secure good fares and your preferred travel dates.

Arriving with enough anticipation also allows you to adjust to the climate and local logistics, and to enjoy the island at a more relaxed pace before the official festival activities begin.

Stay Updated on the Tapati Schedule: Follow the Official Account

For a more precise planning of your activities, we recommend following the official Tapati Instagram account and Tapati Facebook account. The full schedule is posted there once it becomes officially available.

There’s no need to rearrange your entire itinerary to attend every daytime activity. While the competitions and demonstrations held during the day are very meaningful for the local community, the events that generally draw the most attention from visitors are the evening performances on the main stage, which do not interfere with regular tour hours.

This allows you to explore the island’s archaeological sites during the day and enjoy the most representative cultural performances in the evening—making the most of your time in Rapa Nui with the perfect balance of exploration, learning, and celebration.

Discover Rapa Nui: History, Engineering, and Survival in One of the World’s Most Remote Places

Rapa Nui is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural and archaeological value. Here, you’ll find the remains of a society that developed remarkable organization, engineering, navigation skills, and survival strategies, despite its extreme geographic isolation in the middle of the Pacific.

The moai reflect both the technical ingenuity and the deep spiritual meaning of the ancient Rapanui society. Archaeologists from around the world have studied these sculptures, contributing to ongoing research about their construction, transport, social purpose, and historical context.

More than mysteries, Rapa Nui offers facts, scientific research, and a living culture that shines proudly during Tapati.

Experience Rapa Nui at Your Own Pace: Private Bilingual Tours with Expert Guides

To ensure your visit is truly meaningful, we offer private bilingual tours (Spanish/English) with:

• Certified guides with extensive historical, archaeological, and cultural knowledge

• Private transportation, comfortable, punctual, and adapted to your schedule

• Hydration throughout the tour, ideal for sunny days

• A completely personalized experience, without rush, without large groups, and with the freedom to stop wherever you wish

Traveling with us isn’t just more comfortable — it’s the best decision you can make to understand Rapa Nui in an authentic and respectful way. We adapt to your travel style, pace, interests, and any special needs you may have.

Beaches and Natural Areas: What You Should Know – Not all beaches are suitable for swimming, so it’s important to know which ones are safe.

The only beaches recommended for visitors are:

• Anakena Beach (white sand and calm waters)

• Pea Beach

• Poko Poko

These spots are safe, accessible, and perfect for relaxing after a day of cultural exploration.

Responsible Tourism: Traveling with Respect Is Part of the Experience

Rapa Nui remains home to a community with deep traditions and a fragile ecosystem. We invite you to:

• Avoid touching or climbing the moai or any archaeological structures.

• Avoid leaving trash in natural or ceremonial areas. There are no trash bins anywhere inside the National Park, so any waste you produce must be taken back with you to Hanga Roa, where it can be disposed of properly.

• Respect access rules in villages, trails, and protected areas.

• Always follow the guidance provided by local residents and certified guides.

Participating in Tapati also means doing so consciously, valuing what makes Rapa Nui such a unique place.

Ready to Experience Tapati Rapa Nui 2026?

With the dates confirmed and preparations underway, it’s time to secure your spot at this extraordinary cultural celebration.

We will be delighted to accompany you with our private bilingual tours, exclusive transportation, and expert guides who will make your visit educational, respectful, and unforgettable.

Book early, secure your flights with LATAM, and get ready to experience Rapa Nui in the most authentic way possible.

At Easter Island Travel, we’re that agency with local expertise, certified guides, and recognition as TripAdvisor’s #1 Tour Operator, we’ll make sure you don’t just visit Easter Island…
You’ll feel it, live it, and remember it forever.

Contact us today to design your ideal itinerary and let us show you Rapa Nui as only those who truly live the island can.

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