Easter Island is hardly what it seems. While it belongs to Chile, the island is actually one of the most isolated islands resting far into the Pacific Ocean. Its culture has more to do with Polynesian traditions than Chilean. And this little island and its people have a reputation that is larger than life, even though it is one of the smallest islands in the Pacific.
You'll recognize the haunting faces of ancient statues, rustic carvings and paintings that are the only traces of Easter Island's oldest inhabitants. You'll hear stories of civil war and strife, dying ecosystems, and controversy that have been a part of the history of Easter Island for as long as historians can remember. Easter Island may be lightly populated, but it is densely laden with history, culture, and mystery.
Getting in and around Easter Island
Easter Island Airport
Getting in to Easter Island isn't as difficult as you might think. However, it may cost you. Air travel into Easter Island is provided by a single airline, LAN Airlines, and connections are available in Tahiti and Santiago. The flight is lengthy due to the island's isolated location. Easter Island airport is located outside of Hanga Roa.
Easter Island Transport
Getting around Easter Island is fairly easy and straightforward because the island is so small. The island is small enough to walk to certain sights. You can even rent a bike or even a horse for transportation.
Easter Island Car Hire
Easter Island car hire is available from a few different agencies in Hanga Roa. You may even be able to borrow a car from your host at a reasonable rate. However, it's important to remember that you will not have rental insurance if you rent a car from your host. The island is so small that it's almost impossible to get lost.
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Easter Island accommdation
Easter Island is not very large so accommodations can be somewhat limited. For the most part, mid-range to budget accommodations make up most of the hotel scene. However, with the recent opening of an elegant, eco friendly hotel, luxury travellers can enjoy a trip to Easter Island that fits their lifestyle.
| Luxury |
- Explora en Rapa Nui. This hotel is unparalleled on the island in beauty and elegance. It's much awaited opening is finally here for your next luxury trip to Easter Island.
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| Mid-range |
- Tauraa Hotel is a petite bed and breakfast just a few minutes from the airport. The owners serve a delicious breakfast each morning and give tips for seeing the island.
- Taha Tai Hotel Visitors to Easter Island look to Taha Tai Hotel for a fantastic stay at a reasonable rate. Guests enjoy an ideal location, great good, and a quality accommodation.
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| Budget |
- O'tai Hotel is a great budget hotel for those that want to experience the essence of Easter Island but don't want to spend a fortune.
- The Kaimana Inn Hotel and Restaurant has everything you need right on site. You'll enjoy this quality, comfortable establishment.
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| Backpackers |
- Kona Tau is a great, basic hostel that has great prices and serves up cheap, fresh local food and access to transportation.
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Things to do in Easter Island
Easter Island might be one of the smallest and most obscure islands in the Pacific, but it is an experience that you will not soon forget. Easter Island is the perfect destination for obsessive archaeologists that also like to lie out all day at the beach.
Maoi. The Maoi statues are hands down the most famous tourist attraction on Easter Island. Many people have never heard of Easter Island, but they recognize these statues. When you visit Easter Island, you can see the real things and the best part is that most of them are free!
Rano Kau and Rano Raraku. These sites started as volcanic craters. Now they are tremendous sites for ancient carvings and art. Both are must-sees on Easter Island.
Anakena. Easter Island has a few white sand beaches that are absolutely breathtaking and Anakena is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Anakena is a perfect spot for body surfing or being lazy under the sun.
Scuba diving and Snorkelling. Scuba diving and snorkelling are popular pastimes for tourists. Motu Nui and Motu Iti are islets where scuba diving and snorkelling reveal beautiful underwater sights.
Rano Kao. Rano Kao is a small peak in a Chilean National Park that charges a small fee but it's worth it to see these amazing views of the island.
Hanga Roa. For shopping and dining, Hanga Roa is the place to go. There are numerous shops there for tourists to enjoy and a few spots to grab a bite to eat. Hanga Roa is a great place to spend an afternoon.
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Day trips in and around Easter Island
Caves. Unbeknownst to many travellers to Easter Island, there is an extensive cave system unlike any other in the world. Who knew such a small island could have so many caves? Many unofficial caves can be found near Ana Kakenga and they are very fun to explore. Just remember to bring a flashlight.
Maunga Terevaka. Maunga Terevaka is the highest peak on Easter Island and just one of the volcanos anchoring the triangular shaped island. A hike to the top of these peaks is a great opportunity for exercise and adventure.
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