Astrophotography on Easter Island: Moai under stars

Anakena Beach Moai tour: night sky photography with pro instruction and constellation learning

A private astrophotography class on Easter Island's Anakena Beach where you photograph Moai statues beneath the stars with expert guidance on technique, constellation knowledge, and the stories behind celestial bodies. The session runs roughly four hours with red lights to protect night vision, a rest area with tables, and hot coffee, tea, juice and snacks included. Children from age eight are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Astrophotography at Anakena Beach

• Arrive at Anakena Beach
• Set up astrophotography equipment
• Photograph Moai statues at night
• Learn astrophotography techniques
• Identify constellations and legends
• Use red lights for night vision
• Relax in rest area with snacks

The experience

The session takes place on Anakena Beach, where the white coral sands and palm grove frame two Moai complexes (Ahu Nau Nau and Ahu Ature Huki) against the night sky. The timing is planned around the exact astronomical position each night to set up the strongest compositions and silhouettes. You'll receive instruction on astrophotography techniques and learn to read the constellations while a guide explains the legends tied to the celestial bodies. Red lights keep your eyes adapted to darkness and prevent light pollution in long-exposure shots, a professional standard for night photography.

High-resolution photos taken with professional equipment during the session are yours to keep. Between shooting, you'll rest at a table with chairs overlooking the waves, warming up with hot coffee, tea, juice and cookies. Personal binoculars for stargazing are available if you want them, and a laser presentation maps the night sky overhead. The private car pickup is included, with air conditioning and transport in optimal condition.

What’s included

• Expert guidance on astrophotography techniques and constellation knowledge.
• high-resolution photos taken with professional equipment during the session.
• red lights for night vision.
• personal binoculars for astronomical use.
• laser presentation of the night sky.
• hot coffee, tea, juice and snacks at a rest area with tables and chairs.
• private car pickup with air conditioning.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 20:30

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (19 to 69 years) · Senior (70 and older) · Youth (15 to 18 years) · Child (8 to 14 years): free · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 9 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomeInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Easter Island Heritage

Is this one for you?Book this if you want hands-on instruction in astrophotography with a guide, rather than just stargazing. You'll learn camera settings and composition while photographing the Moai, not simply observe the sky.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (15 to 18 years); Child (8 to 14 years): free. Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I bring my own camera to photograph the Moai at night?

The session includes high-resolution photos taken with professional high-end equipment on location, which you receive. You're welcome to bring your own camera to learn the techniques and shoot alongside the guide, though the professional images are part of what's included.

What time does the astrophotography session start and end?

The session runs roughly four hours. Exact start time depends on sunset and the night's astronomical conditions, which the operator plans around to capture the strongest compositions.

Is Anakena Beach easy to reach, or do I need my own transport?

Private car pickup is included in the booking, with air conditioning and transport in optimal condition. The driver brings you to Anakena Beach and back to your accommodation.

What are the Moai statues I'll be photographing?

Ahu Nau Nau and Ahu Ature Huki are two Moai complexes on Anakena Beach, the legendary landing site of Polynesian settlers and the cradle of Rapa Nui culture. You'll photograph them silhouetted against the starlit sky.