Easter Island
Destination
Latin America
Duration
5 days
Easter Island lies more than 2,000 miles off the coast of Chile, yet most travelers find the journey to see the archaeological sites of this unique volcanic Polynesian island completely worth it. Called Rapa Nui by native inhabitants, the island is the site of massive stone stone statues, called moai, that were carved in the 12th-17th centuries. The statues resemble human forms, with emphasis on the heads, and stand up to 30 feet tall and weigh up to 90 tons. Explore one of the most remote inhabited islands on earth, see these spectacular statues with your own eyes, witness the dramatic scenery of Polynesia, and engage with big questions about civilization, climate change, and time during your visit to this fascinating destination.
Itinerary
Day 1 Santiago to Easter Island
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Easter Island. Upon arrival at the airport you will be met and transfer to your hotel Hare Noi Rapa Nui (or similar) for overnight.
Meals
None
Lodging
Hare Noi Rapa Nui or similar
Day 2 Easter Island
In the morning, private excursion with English speaking guide to the volcano Rano Kau (approx 3.5 hours). From the top, enjoy a wonderful view of the sea, crater, and town of Hanga Roa. Visit the ceremonial site and village of Orongo, with 53 distinctive houses. Numerous petroglyphs can also be observed in the site. Then, transfer to the site of Vinapu, where some say the stones are reminiscent of Machu Picchu. Visit Ana Kai Tangata Cave and view its impressive cave paintings. Return to the hotel midday. In the afternoon, explore the Ahu Akivi area of the island. See the Tahai ceremonial site, location of remains of the Rapa Nui culture at its height. You will also see the ahu platform the area is named for, with 7 restored moai, and the cave Ana Te Pahu, one of the largest in the island. End the day at the quarry of Puna Pau, where the Pukao (topknots of the moai) were carved. Return to the village and overnight at the Hare Noi Rapa Nui Hotel or similar.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hare Noi Rapa Nui Hotel or similar
Day 3 Easter Island
Meeting your guide this morning for a full-day excursion to the Rano Raraku volcano and surroundings. Your journey begins on the southern coast of the island, at the archaeological un-restored site of Vaihu. After visiting the archaeological site of Akahanga, where the famous king Hotu Matua is supposedly buried, arrive at one of the most important and greatest attractions of Easter Island: Volcano Rano Raraku. Almost all the moai were carved in its quarries. In the crate you can observe many moai still lying unfinished. Continue towards Ahu Tongariki, where 15 moai stand aligned, and finally arrive at Te Pito Kura, where you can admire a the highest moai ever lifted on an ahu platform. The day ends at the beautiful beach of Anakena, with golden sand and bountiful palm trees. Overnight at the Hotel Hare Noi Rapa Nui or similar.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hotel Hare Noi Rapa Nui or similar
Day 4 Easter Island
Day at leisure. Overnight at the Hotel Hare Noi Rapa Nui or similar.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Hotel Hare Noi Rapa Nui or similar
Day 5 Easter Island Depart
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Santiago with connecting flights home.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
What to Expect
Duration 5 days
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.