Enigmatic Easter Island - Rapa Nui

 OVERVIEW

Join Paul Zizka and Curtis Jones on a once in a lifetime remote Polynesian journey. From the famous ancient Moai carvings to the volcanic landscape and dark starry skies, adventure awaits us at every turn. We will have the opportunity to experience Rapa Nui’s monoliths, and discover why they remain one of the world’s greatest mysteries.

Together, we’ll explore the ancient spirit of Rapa Nui, immersing ourselves in a land shaped by mystery, isolation, and raw natural beauty. Far from the noise of the modern world, the island’s profound stillness creates the perfect setting for meaningful storytelling and extraordinary photography.

Designed for adventurous creatives, this workshop invites you beyond the ordinary, off the beaten path and deep into the soul of the island. Whether photographing towering monoliths at sunrise, volcanic craters under shifting light, or the Milky Way above the Pacific, you’ll experience Rapa Nui in a way few ever do!

Location: Easter Island/Rapa Nui, Chile

Dates: January 12-18, 2028

Tour Leaders*: Paul Zizka + Curtis Jones

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• How to capture the majesty of the moai sentinels, both in the daytime and at night.
• How to make the most of the dynamic skies and seas of one of the world's most remote locations.
• How to capture the cultural essence of Rapa Nui, from the locals, to the free-roaming horses, to the colourful landscape.
• How to emphasize the incredible, unique geography and geology of Easter Island.
• How to create epic, magical nighttime imagery among some of the world's starriest skies.
• How to adopt an efficient workflow when abroad and on the go.

 ITINERARY

(Note: subject to change)

Day 1 - Wednesday, January 12, 2028
After arriving on the remote shores of Easter Island, guests will settle into the hotel before gathering for our official workshop kickoff at 3:00 PM. We’ll introduce the journey ahead, discuss photography goals, and begin immersing ourselves in the unique culture and atmosphere of Rapa Nui.

We’ll share our first group dinner together before heading to the iconic ceremonial site of Ahu Tahai for sunset. Here, the Moai come alive in the warm evening glow, offering our first opportunity to photograph these legendary monoliths against the vast Pacific horizon.

If skies are clear, the adventure continues into the night with an astrophotography session at Hanga Kio’e, where the island’s isolation and lack of light pollution create extraordinary conditions for capturing the stars above ancient volcanic landscapes.

Day 2 - Thursday, January 13, 2028
We will depart for one of the most awe-inspiring locations on the island: Ahu Tongariki. Watching the first light of day rise behind fifteen towering Moai is an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to get portfolio worthy photos.

After sunrise, we journey back toward town along the island’s rugged southern coastline, experiencing the dramatic scenery in daylight before returning for a relaxed late breakfast.

The afternoon offers time to explore the village, enjoy lunch, or simply rest before regrouping for an early dinner at Haka Honu. From there, we hike along the quieter eastern rim of the legendary Orongo crater, discovering sweeping ocean views and volcanic textures rarely seen by visitors.

We finish the evening at Rano Kau, photographing sunset and stars from one of the island’s most dramatic landscapes before returning back to the hotel.

Day 3 - Friday, January 14, 2028
The morning begins with breakfast before heading north to the white sands and turquoise waters of Anakena Beach.

We continue to nearby Ovahe, known for its vivid red cliffs, colourful rock formations, and secluded shoreline, providing unique opportunities for both landscape and detail photography.

After returning to town for lunch and downtime, we regroup for dinner before setting out to explore the ceremonial village of Orongo at sunset.

If conditions allow, the evening evolves into an unforgettable astrophotography session split between the mystical quarry of Rano Raraku and the iconic silhouettes of Ahu Tongariki beneath the Milky Way.

Day 4 - Saturday, January 15, 2028
Today we explore the island’s archaeological and geological wonders, beginning with the inland Moai platform of Ahu Akivi, followed by the lava cave systems of Ana Te Pahu and the remote coastal ruins of Ahu Tepeu.

Later, we experience the island from a completely different perspective during a boat excursion along the coastline, photographing volcanic cliffs, caves, and the open Pacific from the water.

Depending on weather and light conditions, we may revisit Ahu Tongariki at sunrise or Ahu Tahai at sunset to capture scenes we may have missed earlier in the journey.

The evening concludes with a memorable group dinner at Neptune Island, with another optional astrophotography session if skies align.

Day 5 - Sunday, January 16, 2028
This morning we head to the remote Poike Peninsula. Far from the more visited areas of the island, this rugged region offers dramatic cliffs, rolling volcanic terrain, and a profound sense of solitude.

Over the course of a 5–6 hour hike, we’ll photograph windswept coastlines, ancient landscapes, and sweeping Pacific vistas while experiencing a quieter, more untouched side of Rapa Nui.

After returning to town for a late lunch and well-earned rest, we gather for dinner once more at Haka Honu before heading to the rugged coastline near Nayara Hangaroa for sunset photography.

If needed, this evening also offers another chance to capture the island beneath the stars.

Day 6 - Monday, January 17, 2028
Our final full day begins with an early breakfast followed by a photography session in the beautiful mid-morning light, focusing on storytelling, culture, and creative connection.

We then venture to the coastal cave region of Ana Kai Tangata, where volcanic formations, crashing waves, and dramatic cliff scenery provide a fitting final landscape experience.

The afternoon is left open for lunch, shopping, or quiet reflection around town before we come together for a farewell evening at Te Ra'ai.

Day 7 - Tuesday, January 18, 2028
We share one final breakfast together before the workshop concludes. Guests will transfer to the airport for late-morning flights back to Santiago.

* As per our Terms and Conditions, OFFBEAT reserves the right to change, at any time, the tour leader of any workshop.

 THE FINER DETAILS 

Included:

• Daily instructions/mentorship with Paul Zizka and Curtis Jones
• Accomodations for 6 nights
• Airport transfers
• All Breakfasts
• All on-island transportation
• Park Pass to Rapa Nui National Park
• Night excursion to photograph Moai
• Itinerary planned by OFFBEAT instructors.
• Lifetime membership to OFFBEAT Community.

Not Included:

• International flights to Easter Island
• Lunches and dinners
• Additional hotel stays
• Travel Insurance
• Souvenirs
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips

 PRICE AND PAYMENT SCHEDULE 

Cost: CAD $8950* 

Payment options: Full payment or CAD $1500  non-refundable deposit to secure a space with remaining four payments as listed below.

Non-Refundable Deposit: CAD $1500 

• Installment Payment #1 CAD $1450 - October 15, 2026
• Installment Payment #2: CAD $2000 - March 15, 2027
• Installment Payment #3: CAD $2000 - July 15, 2027
• Installment Payment #4: CAD $2000 - October 15, 2027

Note:  if you are interested in bringing your spouse/partner on this, we have a  discounted spousal rate of CAD $6,950

Note: Failure to pay by due dates means forfeiting deposit and spot will be freed up and potentially sold to another interested participant (see more in cancellation policy below).

If unforeseen circumstances arise, refunds will not be given but participants are welcome to transfer/sell their space to another interested participant. In such case, participants are responsible for handling payment for the transfer.

 PARTICIPANTS

• 8 minimum

We require a minimum of 8 participants in order to run this workshop. If the minimum numbers are not reached by July 2027 the workshop may be cancelled and deposits will be refunded to participants. See our cancellation policy below for more details.

 ACCOMMODATIONS 
Your time for the duration of the workshop will be in a hotel. We are currently sourcing the rooms and you will be notified when accomodations are secured.

Important note:  please note that accommodations will be shared (two participants of the same sex per room). Accommodations are always made for friends/spouses traveling together to ensure you room together.  A single room may be available for a supplemental fee.

 WHAT TO EXPECT 

The workshop is suitable for participants of all levels of experience in photography. Most locations will be readily accessible with short hikes. 

This event focuses 100% on landscape + outdoor + night photography, but participants are free to ask questions about and practice portrait photography as well. It is worth noting that the workshop will be quite active in order to maximize field time. Participants are not expected to participate in every aspect of the workshop/tour. It’s up to you to get out as much as you like, though of course it is recommended you give it your all.

 LEAVE NO TRACE 

We preach and live the ethics of "leave no trace" photography, which means that the utmost care is given, while hiking and photographing, to leaving zero impact on the natural environment. Participants are expected to approach this tour with the same ethics at all times.

 INSURANCE

It is not only advised but required that workshop participants have trip cancellation/interruption insurance, as well as emergency medical/illness insurance and rescue coverage (proof required within 4 months of departure).
Weather and other unforeseen factors can cause delays in travel, particularly from some of our more remote locations. It is the participant’s responsibility to cover any costs in the case of a travel delay of any length. 

Please ensure your trip cancellation/interruption insurance accommodates this possibility. By purchasing a spot you are acknowledging that you accept these conditions.

 OFFBEAT TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

Please take the time to review OFFBEAT’s Terms and Conditions, including our Cancellation Policies. You are required to agree to these in order to confirm your registration.

 TRAVEL VISA 

It is the participant's responsibility to ensure they have a valid Travel Visa (if applicable/required) for the duration of the workshop.