Easter Island Travel Guide

Get ready for your adventure to Easter Island with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the culture, history, nature, delicious food, and much more!


Introduction to Easter Island

Easter Island, locally known as Rapa Nui, is a remote volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean, located 3,700 km off the coast of Chile. The island is famous for its magnificent monumental statues, called “Moai,” which are scattered all over the island and hold a lot of cultural significance.

List of Places to Visit in Easter Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rapa Nui National Park

Rapa Nui National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers more than 40% of the island and comprises many significant archaeological sites, including Ahu Akivi, Vinapu, and Orongo.

Museo Rapa Nui

The Museo Rapa Nui is a small museum that exhibits various artifacts and information about the island’s history and culture. It is a great place to learn about the Rapa Nui people and their traditions.

Natural Attractions of Easter Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Anakena Beach

Anakena Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, with white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees. It is also home to two significant archaeological sites, Ahu Nau Nau and Ahu Ature Huki.

Rano Kau Crater

Rano Kau Crater is a massive volcanic crater, which is now filled with fresh water. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the ocean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Easter Island

Orongo

Orongo is an ancient ceremonial village located on the southwestern coast of the island. The village is an essential archaeological site, as it was where the Birdman Cult held their annual religious ceremony.

Rano Raraku

Rano Raraku is a volcanic crater that served as a quarry for the Moai statues. The walking path is relatively easy and offers panoramic views of the island’s southern side.

Best Things to Do in Easter Island: Activities and Tours

Sunset Tour of Ahu Tahai

Ahu Tahai is a significant ceremonial site located in Hanga Roa, the capital city of Easter Island. It is known for its stunning sunset views.

Scuba Diving

The crystal clear waters surrounding Easter Island are perfect for scuba diving and exploring the vibrant underwater world that includes coral reefs, fishes, and other marine creatures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Easter Island

Day 1-2: Explore the cultural and historical site of Rapa Nui National Park and visit the popular Ahu Tongariki.

Day 3: Take a guided tour to discover the lesser-known parts of the island and visit the Rano Raraku volcano.

Day 4: Enjoy a relaxing day on the beautiful Anakena Beach and visit the two significant archaeological sites at Ahu Nau Nau and Ahu Ature Huki.

Day 5: Take a trip to Orongo and discover the ancient Birdman Cult and the ceremonial village of Orongo.

Day 6: Go on a scuba diving trip and explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding Easter Island.

Day 7: Explore the capital city of Easter Island, Hanga Roa, and visit the popular Tahai Complex.

Food and Drink Scene of Easter Island

Must-Try Dishes

Umu Rapa Nui

Umu Rapa Nui is an authentic Rapa Nui dish, cooked in an underground oven. The dish consists of chicken, sweet potato, taro, and other vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Po’e

Po’e is a sweet pudding made of banana, papaya, and other tropical fruits, mixed with arrowroot, and baked.

Local Beverages

Kava

Kava is a drink made from the roots of the Kava plant. It is said to have a calming effect and is often used in traditional ceremonies.

Mahina

Mahina is a traditional Rapa Nui drink made with orange peel, cinnamon, and other spices, mixed with rum.

Where to Stay in Easter Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa

Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa is a luxurious eco-friendly hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms and sustainable amenities.

Hostel Pukao

Hostel Pukao is a budget-friendly hostel located in Hanga Roa, with clean, simple rooms, and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Easter Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Moai Statues

Moai statues are the icon of Easter Island. You can find various sizes and materials of Moai statues, including wood, stone, and replica models.

Handmade Crafts

Handmade crafts, such as woven bags, carved wood sculptures, and colorful paintings, are a great way to bring home a piece of Easter Island’s culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Easter Island

Rapa Nui people have a rich culture and unique customs. Visitors should respect their traditions, including wearing conservative clothing when visiting religious sites and not touching or climbing on the Moai statues.

Best Time to Visit Easter Island

The best time to visit Easter Island is during the summer months of December to February when the weather is warm and dry. The off-season months of April to November are also a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Easter Island

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Protect the natural environment.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.

Don’t:

  • Climb or touch the Moai statues.
  • Bring or buy illegal substances.

Safety and Health

Safety in Easter Island

Easter Island is a safe place to travel, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Easter Island

Visitors should be up to date with their routine vaccines and consult with a doctor before traveling to Easter Island, as some vaccines and medications are required.

Getting to Easter Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Easter Island

Mataveri International Airport is the only airport on Easter Island, and LAN Airlines is the only airline that serves the island.

Bus Stations Near Easter Island

There are no bus stations on Easter Island. Visitors can explore the island by renting a car, taking a taxi, or joining a guided tour.

How to Get Around in Easter Island

Visitors can rent a car or scooter to explore the island, or use a local bus or taxi. Biking and hiking are also great options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Where to Go Next from Easter Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santiago, Chile

Santiago is the capital city of Chile and a convenient stopover destination after visiting Easter Island. It is known for its beautiful architecture, lively neighborhoods, and delicious food.

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park is a breathtaking national park in southern Chile. It is home to glaciers, mountains, rivers, and lakes and offers a variety of outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and kayaking.

Conclusion

Easter Island is an enchanting and unique destination, full of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its breathtaking landscapes, ancient statuary, and friendly people, it is a must-visit destination for all types of travelers. Whether you want to explore the archaeological sites, relax on the beaches, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Easter Island has something for everyone.

Moai statue Moai statue A rapa nui in traditional dress A rapa nui in traditional dress Triumfetta semitriloba Triumfetta semitriloba Topographical map of Easter Island Topographical map of Easter Island Old writing in Rapa Nui Old writing in Rapa Nui A moai and a tail of a LAN (nowadays LATAM) aircraft A moai and a tail of a LAN (nowadays LATAM) aircraft Incomplete statues at Rano Raraku Incomplete statues at Rano Raraku Ahu Tongariki - the largest ahu Ahu Tongariki - the largest ahu The view from Orongo - and some birdmen carvings The view from Orongo - and some birdmen carvings Moai Moai At sunset At sunset Motu Nui Motu Nui View of Motu Nui and Motu Iti from Orongo View of Motu Nui and Motu Iti from Orongo Cave opening at Ana Te Pahu Cave opening at Ana Te Pahu Sunset at Ahu Tahai Sunset at Ahu Tahai Wild horses at Rano Raraku Wild horses at Rano Raraku Souvenir shop Souvenir shop ''Umu pae'' is a traditional way of preparing food here. First a pile of stones are heated by fire, then meat and vegetables are placed on the hot stones and banana leaves are used as a lid. ''Tunu ahi'' is the version without banana leafs ''Umu pae'' is a traditional way of preparing food here. First a pile of stones are heated by fire, then meat and vegetables are placed on the hot stones and banana leaves are used as a lid. ''Tunu ahi'' is the version without banana leafs Pisco sour Pisco sour View from Tauraa Hotel View from Tauraa Hotel Stars above Ahu Tongariki Stars above Ahu Tongariki