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Easter Island
Situated in eastern Polynesia some 3,700 km (5hr flight) from mainland Chile it was discovered in 1771 on Easter Sunday by Spanish conquistadors on their way to the Indies. Easter Island is a World heritage Site, but also the most isolated place on the planet. It has been called an ‘open air museum’ on account of the Moai, or stone statues, of which there are over 600 that can be found on the island, with 300 Moais on one volcano!
Not all the Moais were finished, and many can be found at varying stages of construction, showing the elaborate carving techniques used with only rudimentary tools.
The purpose of the Moai still remains a mystery and archaeologists are trying to understand this ancient civilisation by interpreting the ancient language of Rapa Nui – a Polynesian dialect. The inhabitants are mostly Polynesian and the Island itself is made up 3 volcanoes, each of which can be explored on foot and the quiet little towns of Hanga Roa and Orongo with their incredible stonewalls and birdman ceremonial sites adding to the islands charm. In addition to the cultural and archaeological interests, there are beautiful beaches, clear waters and coral reefs, as would be expected of a pacific island. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The Island offers a wide array of attractions, including trekking, horse riding, tropical beaches and ancient ruins. Below are some suggestions of what you can see and do, though we can tailor any trip to suit your interests.
Hanga-Roa. This sleepy little town is the home of almost the entire island’s population. Containing an anthropological museum and thought to be their cultural centre. Vinapu. The area contains the ruins of two Ahu, (ceremonial platforms for the moais) one of which shows similarities to Machu Picchu’s stonework. The moais that used to sit on top of the structure have unfortunately toppled over. Ahu-Akivi. These are the most famous of the moais, where all 7 face the ocean, whereas all others face inland. Legend has it that this was the site where the Rapa Nui king first set foot on the island in the 4th century.
Rano Raraku. A volcano containing the quarry where nearly all the moais were sculpted. All 394 moais here were left unfinished and at varying stages of completion.
Te Pito Kura. Today it is only a shrine where the largest moai ever transported and erected once stood. It now lies on the ground, weighing 82 tons and 10m tall. Orongo. This small ceremonial village comes to life during the Tapati Rapa Nui festival in January, though it is better known for the nearby Rano Kau volcano, whose crater has a diameter of 1.6 km and is 200m deep. Ovahue. This small rarely frequented beach has a peculiar pink sand and with its crystal clear waters is ideal for lazing away the days. Any of the above trips can be visited on foot or on horseback. The 3 volcanoes of the island can all be summated in a day, depending on fitness.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Easter Island
Explora Rapa Nui is the newest hotel on the Easter Island and has been designed with the environment in mind. The low slung structure overlooking the Pacific Ocean offers a great view from all directions.
Easter Island
The Altiplanico Rapa Nui hotel is designed in the style of a traditional Rapa Nui boathouse with luxurious gardens, a beautiful swimming pool and views onto the surrounding ocean.
Santiago
The Ritz Carlton has great views towards the Andes as well as being located in the prestigious area of El Golf in Santiago offering you great luxury and comfort for your stay in this city.
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