Easter Island's Biggest Festival
There's a lot to like about the Tapati Rapa Nui festival, but for us one of the main things is that it strikes that happy balance between being a welcoming and friendly experience for visitors, but without compromising its history and traditions in any way.
The two weeks of music, dancing and competitive events date back way into the mists of time, although as you'd expect they incorporate many things which weren't part of the island's purely Polynesian history. So you'll find carving competitions, canoe races and traditional music and dance, but you'll also see horse races, a triathlon event and the crowning of a 'carnival' queen.
One of the most famous (and popular) events is the haka pei, where contestants slide down the steep hills on banana tree trunks, reaching speeds of up to 80kmh. It's genuinely dangerous (broken limbs are not uncommon) and absolutely thrilling! What's even more amazing is that in keeping with the festival's open spirit, tourists are actively encouraged to take part. Please note that we don't actively encourage you to take part. Great fun though...
The 2021 Tapati Rapa Nui Festival
The 2021 Tapati festival will run from the 1st to the 15th of February, and as usual we will be providing packages for customers to attend. So if you'd like to see Easter Island at its traditional best and experience a genuinely authentic and locally-run festival, get in touch now!
Ask us about this Event in Easter Island