Easter Island Chile Travel Guide
These sites are central to understanding Easter Island's history and culture. A Rapa Nui National Park Ticket is needed for major archaeological sites, valid for 10 days.
Guided options are highly recommended; local guides share valuable context. For Orongo and Rano Raraku, a licensed guide is needed for your first entry. Guides could be located in Hanga Roa or through tour operators. Park hours are typically 9:FROM 12 am TO 6:00 PM, with variations for sunrise/sunset viewing.
Rapa Nui National Park Ticket costs CLP 80,000 for foreigners and continue to bes valid for 10 days. Keep it safe, as rangers check it at every location.
The entire island's archaeological landscape. Beyond iconic Moai sites, numerous other ahu, ceremonial platforms, and house foundations scatter island-wide.
Unique for its seven Moai facing the ocean, believed to represent the first explorers. Has a different narrative.
Red scoria quarry for the "pukao" (topknots/hats) on some Moai. See numerous pukao in various completion stages.
Cave near Hanga Roa with ancient cave paintings (petroglyphs) of birdmen. Its ocean view location adds mystique.
On the Rano Kau volcano rim. Center of the Birdman Cult, with unique stone houses and petroglyphs.
Easter Island's volcanic origins fashioned a dramatic and beautiful natural landscape alongside its cultural wonders.
A massive extinct volcano with a stunning caldera lake. The crater rim has panoramic views of the island and ocean.
The highest point on the island, a full 360-degree view of Rapa Nui and the ocean's curvature. A hike or horseback ride is needed.
Anakena Beach and Ovahe Beach are main swimming spots. The caldera lakes of Rano Kau, Rano Raraku, and Poike are unique freshwater features.
Rano Kau, Rano Raraku, and Poike are the three main volcanoes that formed the island's triangular shape.
Numerous lava tubes and caves, like Ana Te Pahu (Cave of the Bananas) and Ana Kakenga (Cave of A duo Windows), offer unique underground experiences.
Marine life (fish, green sea turtles 'Honu', rays) is visible when diving and snorkeling. Wild horses and cattle roam freely.
The island's only town. Its architecture is a mix of current Chilean and traditional Rapanui styles, with older structures present.
Moai and ahu were deeply spiritual monuments, symbolizing deified ancestors. Orongo village and Birdman cult traditions show a shift in spiritual focus.
The Moai themselves are memorials to ancestors, embodying islanders' spiritual beliefs. No other specific modern memorial sites exist.
A lot of attractions are part of Rapa Nui National Park and your park ticket is needed for entry. Consider renting a car or taking guided tours to navigate the island effectively.
Beyond the well-known sites, Easter Island holds several lesser-visited spots that present unique insights and experiences.
These off-the-beaten-path attractions have a chance for finding and solitude, away from the main tourist circuits. Ask local guides about horseback riding tours to these areas for a different view of the scenery and history.
Explore the mysterious lava tubes and caves formed by ancient volcanic flows, offering a chilly and eerie atmosphere.
Discover sites with distinct Moai or unusual archaeological features that are less frequented.
While exploring hidden gems, maintain respectful and eco-conscious practices to preserve the island's fragile heritage.
Consider hiring local guides for these spots; they know the area best and ensure responsible visits.
Beyond iconic Moai shots, there are many opportunities to get a photo of the island's natural beauty and lesser-seen details.
Look for intricate petroglyphs in a variety of sites for close-up detail shots.
Easter Island remains a place of ongoing discovery, with new archaeological work sometimes revealing fresh information.
The isolated nature of Easter Island means few "emerging" sub-destinations exist within its small confines.
Purchase Rapa Nui National Park tickets upon arrival at the airport or CONAF offices.
Look for local tour operators in Hanga Roa. Many offer small group or custom tours.
For some tours and activities, consider booking via platforms like GetYourGuide.
