The inside of the Rano Raraku crater holds a large freshwater lake with Totora reeds growing along its borders. 

 

This is the same plant that florishes in  Lake Titicaca and some scolars see it as proof of an early link between the Rapanui and Peruvian cultures.

However recent studies suggest that the reed has been growing on the island for at least 30.000 years, long before any human settlement of the Americas. This points more to an avian link.

 

Half buried in the eastern slopes sit some 70 moais as proof that also the inside part of Rano Ranaku was used as a quarry. Bringing these moais safely out of the crater must have been quite a feat.

 

The crater is centerstage of the annual Tapati triatlon with canoeing, swimming and running around with heavy banana heads on the shoulders.

 

Near the crater is the Centro Artesanal Rano Ranaku with local souvenirs. They also provide drinks and lunch to thirsty and hungry tourists.