Join an expert-led journey around Easter Island (Rapa Nui) and through northern Chile to explore Polynesian and pre-Columbian archaeology and history, guided by renowned prehistorian and longtime AIA tour leader Paul Bahn. Marvel at some of the most remarkable reminders of the local ancient cultures—such as moai (monumental statues) and geoglyphs (figures etched into or built on the Earth’s surface)—in person, with expert insights that bring their contexts to life.
We will mull over the organization, engineering, artistry, and transportation methods involved in the production of the famous moai. And as we view the wide variety of geoglyphs scattered across the landscape of northern Chile, we will consider how they reflect ancient peoples’ mobility via caravan routes and exchange networks, ceremony or ritual, and/or communication as route markers and visual expressions of long-distance social interactions across vast desert. Along the way, we will also learn about such significant modern concerns as archaeological and historic preservation, environmental recovery, and the reconnection of Rapa Nui with the wider Polynesian world. With all logistics managed by a dedicated tour manager, you are free to focus fully on exploration and learning.

Highlights:
•Spend four nights on Rapa Nui, seeing not only many moai and ahu (ceremonial platforms) but also Hanga Roa, the island’s only urban settlement; Tahai Ceremonial Complex, one of the island’s most important sites; Ahu Akivi, whose seven moai are unique in that they are inland and face the ocean; Anakena Beach, said to be where Polynesians first set foot on Rapa Nui; and Papa Vaka, whose marine petroglyphs are typical rock art of the northern coast.
•Spend five nights in the Atacama Desert area, viewing a variety of geoglyphs such as those in the Lluta Valley, known as the best-preserved in the region; Chiza, where some of its hundreds of figures reach up to 300 feet in size; the Atacama Giant, which is the world’s largest prehistoric, anthropomorphic geoglyph; and Pintados, where more than 350 figures are spread over nearly 2.5 miles.
•Enjoy a tour and lunch at Santa Rita Winery, ranked “best winery in the world” by Forbes, plus visit the interesting Andean Museum on the winery’s property.
•Learn about the ancient Chinchorro culture, known for its very early, sophisticated mummification process, at sites such as the open-air Colón 10 Museum, where 32 mummies may be viewed with their burial goods in situ.
•Visit Valparaíso, Chile’s unofficial cultural capital: a bohemian harbor town filled with faded mansions, cobblestone streets, and lively street art.
This exclusive, small-group tour is limited to just 16 participants. Contact us to reserve your space on this unique program.