Easter Island

🗿 Easter Island – The Land of Giants and Ancient Secrets

⭐ 4.8/5 | History | Adventure | Mystery | Polynesian Culture
Step into a living archaeological wonder in the middle of the Pacific, where massive stone statues gaze over green volcanic plains and Polynesian heritage thrives.

🌍 Why Visit Easter Island?

Located over 3,500 km west of mainland Chile, Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is one of the most isolated inhabited islands on Earth. It’s world-famous for its Moai statues—carved by the island’s original Polynesian settlers between 1250–1500 AD. But it’s more than just archaeology: volcanoes, beaches, sacred caves, and local traditions make this a deeply spiritual and visually striking destination.

🧭 Top Things to Do on Easter Island

Experience	Highlights
Ahu Tongariki	The most iconic site with 15 Moai lined up against the sunrise.
Rano Raraku	The volcanic quarry where nearly all Moai were carved—many remain half-buried.
Anakena Beach	A stunning white-sand beach with palm trees and Moai watching over.
Orongo Ceremonial Village	Explore ancient cliffside homes and petroglyphs near the Rano Kau crater.
Ahu Akivi	Unique Moai that face the ocean instead of inland.
Cave Exploration	Visit lava tubes and sacred caves like Ana Te Pahu.
Stargazing	Clear skies make this a top spot for celestial views and photography.

🌋 Nature & Adventure

🥾 Hike to Terevaka Volcano, the island’s highest point, for 360° views of ocean and landscape.
🏊 Snorkel or dive near coral reefs and sunken Moai statues at Hanga Roa.
🐴 Horseback ride across the island’s rolling hills and archaeological sites.
🚴 Bike the coast between scattered ahus (platforms) and peaceful rural scenery.

🧉 Cultural Experiences

🇵🇫 Learn about Rapa Nui culture, which blends Polynesian roots with Chilean influence.
🎭 Attend a traditional dance show like Kari Kari or Vai Te Mihi in Hanga Roa.
🧵 Watch or buy local wood carvings, tapa cloth, and jewelry from village artisans.
📅 Plan your trip for the Tapati Festival (early February)—a week-long celebration of Rapa Nui identity with competitions, costumes, and rituals.

🛌 Where to Stay

Explora Rapa Nui – Luxury eco-lodge with full guided excursions.
Hotel Hare Uta – Boutique with Polynesian architecture and local warmth.
Camping Mihinoa – Oceanfront budget camping just outside Hanga Roa.

🥘 What to Eat

Tuna empanadas – Local specialty with fresh-caught fish.
Umu Rapa Nui – Traditional underground-cooked feast of fish, chicken, and root vegetables.
Po’e – Sweet banana and pumpkin cake.
Pair it with fresh mango juice or a local Chilean wine.

📸 Best Photo Spots

📍 Ahu Tongariki at sunrise – the most dramatic view on the island.
📍 Rano Raraku – eerie stone heads in various stages of completion.
📍 Anakena Beach – tropical setting with Moai in the background.
📍 Orongo Crater Rim – panoramic coastal and volcanic views.

🚗 Getting There & Around

✈️ Daily flights from Santiago (approx. 5.5 hours) to Mataveri Airport (IPC).
🚗 Rent a car, ATV, or bike for independent exploration—tours are optional but helpful.
🏙️ All services are based in Hanga Roa, the island’s only town.