Ahu Tongariki faces east looking over the ocean. The sun rises to the east-north-east here in late autumn, so the sun will not rise between the Moai as it does in summer, but it should still be a good visit. On the ride here (1), the waning crescent moon was rising through the scudding clouds.
Stepping carefully over the volcanic soil, flashlight in hand, we positioned ourselves in front of the Moai and waited for first light. Slowly emerging from the gloaming, there was a feeling of the ancestors watching. After an hour or so, some rain showers arrived, signalling our time to depart.
Back at the hotel, I worked on my vitamin D at the pool until about Noon, then walked to the airport (2). One advantage of the storm over the weekend was the residual southwest winds, helping us to arrive early back in Santiago.
(1) Not with Zoe, who likes to sleep late, but Niles and Michelle, the English couple were in the car.
(2) After donning a shell necklace, the traditional gift when leaving Rapa Nui.
First light at Ahu Tongariki
View to Ranu Raraku from Ahu Tongariki
Birdman motif at hotel
The plane arrives
Handing over the plane to the new crew
Airport fire brigade standing by during refueling. Not much else for them to do here.
Outdoor waiting area; very civilized
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