Ahu Tahai is a collection of ancient ruins easily accessible by foot, located on Easter Island (Rapa Nui). I visited multiple times during my stay. More precisely, it’s the “Tahai Ceremonial Complex,” consisting of three ahu (stone platforms on which moai statues stand).
The most well-known is the moai statue on Ahu Ko Te Riku, distinguished by its restored eyes and a pukao (a hat-like topknot). It’s a popular spot for tourists to capture photos, especially during the dramatic sunsets.
Adjacent to this is Ahu Tahai itself, and then Ahu Vai Uri, featuring five moai statues. These ruins were restored in 1974, including the replacement eyes for the Ahu Ko Te Riku moai. (The only original moai eyes are housed in a museum.)
The eyes’ pupils are crafted from red scoria, a volcanic rock, as are the pukao. The area surrounding the pupils is made of coral.
I never grew tired of gazing at the moai during my visits. Their imposing presence and the mystery surrounding their creation are truly captivating.
