South America
Welcome Kit
Chile
Rapa Nui
There is no other inhabited area in the world that is as isolated as the distant Rapa Nui. Its abundant archeology, its volcanoes and grasslands, and its more than 1,000 moai silent witnesses of a complex society.
It is time for you to come and discover its secrets!
Highlights
There are many things to do on Easter Island. For those looking for a rest, besides knowing the fascinating history of the island, the most recommended options are the quiet route by car around the archaeological sites as well as short walks to enjoy the sea and landscape. Of course, nothing better that to spend one morning of relaxing in the beautiful beach of Anakena and sunbathe on the soft white sand. See a sunset as the last rays of light glide among the huge moai, is an unforgettable experience.
But if what you want is action, then Easter Island has a lot to offer. Lovers of adventure can explore the beauties of the depths of an exceptionally clear ocean, diving for a few hours . And if you are in good fit, travel around the island on a mountain bike is an opportunity not to be missed, it is the best way to feel the peace of this unique place.
Hiking, boat rides or horseback riding, and many other options that invite you to spend as much time as possible on the island to take full advantage. None of the alternatives leave you indifferent, since it is not the activity itself, but also the wonderful scenery that the island offers every step.
General Facts
The island is located on the geographic coordinates 27°7′10″S 109°21′17″O_ / _-27.11944, -109.35472, approximately at the latitude of the Chilean city of Caldera, though the nearest continental point is located to the south, at Punta Lavapié in the VIII Region of Bío-Bío, 3526 km away. The island is also located 2075 km to the west of the Pitcairn islands, and 4251 km away from Papeete, the capital of the French Polynesia. To the west, 415 kilometers away, is the island of Sala y Gómez, the most eastern point of Oceania.
Since its “discovery” on Easter Sunday in 1722, Rapa Nui has aroused the interest of navigators, historians, scientists and travelers from around the world. Much has been written about what is considered “the most island island”, due to its remote location in the Pacific Ocean. The gigantic volcanic stone statues, known as moai, the unscrambled writing of the Rongo Rongo symbols and the history of its inhabitants who were about to disappear, have originated the myth of Easter Island.
Map Location
Documentation
A valid Passport. Insurance information.
Most countries in America and
Western Europe do not require a visa.
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Best Time to Go
The shoulder seasons between April and June and October and December are the best times to visit Easter Island. The warm climate of the Southern Hemisphere combined with the light crowds during these months makes them an ideal time to discover the many highlights of the island.
Between January and March is summer in the Southern Hemisphere and high season, when visitors flock to the island. The Tapati Rapa Nui Festival takes place every year at the beginning of February, a celebration that brings the Rapa Nui culture to new generations of the island’s people and tourists. Activities during this festival include horseback races, dancing, a triathlon, swimming, and canoeing.
Clothing
You should bring a range of clothing for Easter Island. Prepare to spend time on some beautiful beaches.
Here we leave you the basic items you’ll need.
T-shirts and shorts: Bring clothes for warmer temperatures! A pair of shorts and a variety of t-shirts will work.
Warmer clothes: Just in case, it is always a good idea to come prepared with warmer clothes in case it gets cold. Pack a sweatshirt, a long-sleeved shirt, and a pair of long pants.
A raincoat: Bring a light raincoat in case of showers.
Sunscreen: It is important to protect your skin from the strong Easter Island sun. Try to bring a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30, and remember to reapply throughout the day.
Aloe: In case of sunburn, take some aloe for your skin. You’ll be happy to have this if you burn easily!
Sunglasses: The sun can shine on Easter Island! We recommend bringing a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Swimsuit: Pack a swimsuit so you can enjoy the beautiful waters.
Beach Towel: Stay dry at the beach by bringing a beach towel. It’s a good idea to bring two in case one gets too sandy.
Flip Flops or Sandals: For lazy days at the beach, bring a pair of flip flops or walking sandals.
Healthcare
Despite its remote location, Rapa Nui is a very safe place for travelers. The vast majority of the thousands of tourists who visit Easter Island each year return to their homes safe and sound.
There are practically no threats to health on Easter Island. In general, the small inconveniences that may arise do not go beyond some mild sunstroke, a few bites of mosquito and slight discomfort in the stomach, typical of any trip.
Packing
Chilean flights allow, as their restrictions are limited to 50 pounds (23 kg) per person.
Currency
Peso Chileno.
Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Electricity
Chile: 220 V – 60 Hz.
Plugs Type C / I
Local Taxes
Foodie
The typical food of Easter Island is based mainly on marine products, such as fish, among which tuna, mahi mahi, the sierra or kana kana stand out, and seafood such as lobster, shrimp and the rape rape, a smaller type of lobster native to the island.
Agricultural products are also a fundamental base of food, such as sweet potatoes, taro, yams, bananas and sugar cane; all of them introduced to Easter Island from the Marquesas Islands a long time ago.
The most traditional preparation is the Umu Rapa Nui or Easter Island curanto, which is cooked in a hole in the ground with firewood and red-hot stones, in the same way it was done hundreds of years ago.
Tunu Ahi literally means “cooking with fire or heat” in the Rapanui language and is the other traditional way of cooking food on Easter Island. It consists of lighting a fire with volcanic stones that are heated to red hot. Once the stones have reached sufficient temperature, food is placed on them, usually freshly caught fish and their entrails, called kokoma. In this way, the meat receives indirect heat and cooks slowly until the stones cool.
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Activities
Ahu Tongariki and the Moai Statues: One of the most iconic destinations in Rapa Nui is Ahu Tongariki, where 15 imposing Moai statues stand in a row against the backdrop of the sea. This is the perfect place to watch the sunrise and feel the mystical energy emanating from these colossal stone statues.
Orongo and Rano Kau Volcano: Drive to Orongo, an ancient ceremonial site built on the rim of the Rano Kau volcano crater. Here you can explore petroglyphs and learn about the fascinating history of the Bird Man Competition (Takona). Enjoy panoramic views of the stunning volcanic landscape and the Pacific Ocean.
Anakena Beach: Relax on the beautiful Anakena Beach with its white sand, turquoise water and palm trees. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling or just soaking up the sun and tranquillity.
Trek the north coast: Explore the island’s north coast on exciting hiking trails. Discover caves, ceremonial platforms and Moai statues in a stunning natural setting. A rewarding hike takes you to Ovahe Beach, a hidden paradise.
Traditional Rapa Nui ceremonies: Don’t miss the chance to experience the local culture by attending a traditional Rapa Nui music and dance ceremony. These artistic expressions will immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of the island.
Hanga Roa Craft Market: Visit the craft market in the capital, Hanga Roa, where you’ll find a variety of handmade items such as shell necklaces, wood carvings and miniature Moai sculptures. It’s the perfect place to take home a unique souvenir of your trip to Rapa Nui.