Easter Island

In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 2,500 miles from the Chilean coastline, there is an island that still holds a very special mystery. Rapa Nui, as the natives called it, literally means the "Navel of the World". It was discovered on Easter Sunday and thus, to this day, it is simply referred to as Easter Island. This island holds an intrigue far greater than one might imagine. So far from everything and everyone and isolated by the largest ocean in the world, it demonstrates a rich history -- all upon an island not 15 miles across. Amidst an atmosphere of friendly Polynesian hospitality, the entire island is an open-air museum with more than 600 Moai stone statues (some up to 27 feet in height). Hangaroa is the small capital town of the island. This is where the great majority of the island population lives (about 2000 inhabitants).

Rapa Nui National Park was created in 1935 to protect the archaeological sites all over the island. The great majority of the island is in fact a national park.

Volcano Ranu Raraku is the site where Moais were carved out of the island’s very unique bedrock. There are more than 300 half-finished statues here in different stages of completion. The largest is nearly 66 feet tall and weighs 250 tons.

Spotlight on Easter Island - 4 Days

Day 1 - Easter Island - Upon arrival at Mataveri Airport, you are met and driven to the Hangaroa Hotel, with the rest of the day at your leisure.

Hangaroa Hotel

Day 2 - Easter Island - The full day excursion begins with with a visit to Ahus Vaihu and Akahanga along the souther coast. Later drive to Rano Raraku, the quarry where the Moais were once made and to Ahu Tongariki, with its 15 restored Moais and nearby petroglvphs. Drive to Ahu Te Pito Kura and the "Navel of the World". Next, visit the beach of Anakena with its Ahu Nau, for a picnic and an opportunity to swim in the warm Pacific Ocean.

Day 3 - Easter Island - Half day excursion to Rano Kau, with a visit to the Crater Lake and the ceremonial village of Orongo, where the birdman culture once chose its king. Afternoon is at leisure, with time to explore the town of Hangaroa and the Museum of Sebastian Englert. We recommend paying a visit to the local church with its extraordinary woodcarvings.

Day 4 - Easter Island - Leave for Mataveri Airport in time for the flight back to Santiago.

Easter Island Adventure - 5 Days

An additional night in Easter Island would include the following: drive across the island to see Ahu Akivi and its seven restored Moais. Afterwards, visit the Ana Te Pahu Cave. From here, travel on to Ahu Tepeu and the quarry of Puna Pau. The afternoon is spent at leisure exploring close to town or perhaps just relaxing in the southern sun.

Ahu Tongariki

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