Terevaka
Mountain Highest volcano and viewpoint on Easter Island
On Easter Island, Terevaka is the island’s highest volcanic peak. Hikers take its ridgelines for panoramic views of moai, volcanic cones and the South Pacific; routes are rough and weather can change quickly.
Terevaka is the largest and highest volcano on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), forming the bulk of the island’s northern interior and reaching an elevation of 507 metres. It is an extinct shield volcano and the island’s dominant topographic feature.
Hikers and visitors go to the summit for extensive views over Rapa Nui, the Pacific and many of the island’s archaeological features visible from above. Trails and routes lead from several points on the island toward the ridge and summit.
Terevaka is volcanic in origin and, together with the island’s other volcanoes, defines Rapa Nui’s triangular form. The volcano’s broad slopes are largely free of continuous forest and are crossed by footpaths used for local grazing and hiking.
The volcano sits on the interior of Easter Island (Rapa Nui) in the southeastern Pacific and is accessed from the main settlement of Hanga Roa on the island’s west coast.
- Highest point: Rises to 507 metres and forms the largest volcanic mass on Easter Island, constituting much of the island's interior topography.
What to See #
- Summit: The summit is the highest point on Rapa Nui at 507 metres above sea level and offers panoramic views across the island and the Pacific Ocean.
How to Get to Terevaka #
Terevaka is accessible from Hanga Roa by local roads; a 4x4 or guided hike is common. Walking routes from Hanga Roa range from moderate to steep and are typically 2-4 hours round-trip depending on starting point.
Tips for Visiting Terevaka #
- Start from Hanga Roa before sunrise for the sun lighting the island from behind - the view from Terevaka at dawn is memorable.
- Paths are steep and ungroomed; choose a route with a local guide if unfamiliar with volcanic terrain.
- Allow time to cross private properties; respect cattle and local farms on the ascent.
Best Time to Visit Terevaka #
Best climbed in the island's dry months and early morning; combine a Terevaka trek with other archaeological sites on Rapa Nui.
Weather & Climate near Terevaka #
Terevaka's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with warm summers (peaking in February) and mild winters (coldest in August). Temperatures range from 14°C to 25°C. Abundant rainfall (1273 mm/year), wettest in April.
January
January is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 19°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (111 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 18°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (155 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 21°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (149 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (129 mm).
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August
August is the coolest month with highs of 18°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 17°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).