Easter Island, a remote gem nestled in the Pacific, is several hours of flight away from mainland Chile. The indigenous Polynesian inhabitants affectionately refer to this mystical island as the “center of the world.” Most visitors typically spend three to four days exploring its wonders, with a round trip costing around 80,000 Chilean pesos.
While the map might seem daunting at first, fear not—follow my guide, and you’ll navigate the island like a pro 🤓. A key tip: rent an automatic car, as the brakes can be quite sensitive [disappointed R].
🗿Ahu Tongariki
This iconic site features 15 colossal stone statues standing in a majestic row, restored with the help of Japanese funding. It’s the perfect spot to catch the sunrise, so be sure to check the local sunrise times. During this season, the sun rises around 7:40 AM. Plan to leave an hour early, as the roads are tricky to navigate in the dark, and it takes about an hour to drive there. Remember, Easter Island is two hours ahead of Santiago, so adjust your clock accordingly.
🗿Rano Raraku
If you’ve seen any promotional videos or classic photos of Easter Island, this is likely the place. Here, you can get up close and personal with numerous giant moai statues, some still partially buried in the volcanic soil. This quarry is where most of the moai were carved, and it’s a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
🗿Ahu Tahai
I stayed at a cozy homestay nearby, complete with cooking facilities. The proximity to Ahu Tahai means you can easily walk there. I often found myself leaning against the ancient stone figures, gazing out at the ocean, and pondering what to cook for dinner. If you’re looking for a breathtaking sunset, this is the spot.
🗿Anakena
Imagine a beach dotted with countless wild horses, a scene straight out of a dream. Anakena Beach is that dream come true. The golden sands and turquoise waters are complemented by rows of moai statues known as Ahu Nau Nau. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
🗿Rano Kau
This stunning volcanic crater is a must-visit. The vibrant green lake within, surrounded by lush vegetation, creates a surreal landscape. Gazing out to the horizon, you’ll see the crater’s opening seamlessly blending into the sea, creating a magical, almost otherworldly view, reminiscent of a WABI ceramic bowl.
Don’t forget to visit the local post office to send a postcard and get a unique stamp on your ticket—a wonderful memento of your journey.
@Life Sweet Potato @Captain Sweet Potato @Travel Sweet Potato
