How to Get to Easter Island. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Airline

Mataveri International Airport (IPC) is the single airport on Easter Island. LATAM Airlines is the sole commercial airline operating flights to Easter Island.

Flight Information

Flights originate exclusively from Santiago, Chile (SCL).
No direct international flights connect to Easter Island from other countries.
Flight frequency varies by season; daily in high season.

Booking & Airport Facilities

Airfares are generally expensive due to remote location and limited competition. Booking several reserving booking months ahead is highly recommended for better prices.

Airport Services & Transfers

Prices peak during high season and holidays.
Mataveri Airport is small but functional, with vehicle rental desks and tourist info.
Official Rapa Nui National Park ticket office is near airport exit.

Airport Walk

Many accommodations in Hanga Roa are within 15-30 minutes walking distance from the airport.

Taxi Availability

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal; fares to Hanga Roa are fixed and reasonable.

Hotel Transfers

Many hotels and cabañas give complimentary airport transfers; confirm with your accommodation.

Flight Resources

Fare Alerts

Dollar Flight Club for flight deal notifications.
Helps find affordable fares.
Consider booking several months in advance.
Prices are generally high due to remoteness.

Flight Search & Compensation

Skyscanner for comparing flight prices.
AirHelp for delayed/canceled flight compensation.
Potential compensation up to €600.
AirHelp offers a 45-a daily treat duration.

Land Transportation Not Applicable

Border Crossings

Not applicable for Easter Island, as it is an isolated island with no land borders.

Train Services

No train connections or services exist on Easter Island or for reaching it.

Bus Options

No long-distance bus options or companies serve Easter Island.

Self-Driving on the Island

Driving Requirements

Self-steering on the island is a common way to explore. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary in addition to your home country's driver's license to rent and operate a vehicle on Easter Island. Obtain this before travel.

Driving Points

IDP required (get before travel).
Main roads are paved and good; secondary roads may be rough.
Only one gas the terminal in Hanga Roa. Fill up often.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions vary. Main roads are paved. Secondary roads, particularly to certain Moai sites or viewpoints, can be gravel or dirt. These become challenging after rain.

Safety Measures

Watch for free-roaming horses and cattle on roads.
A good map or offline GPS is useful. Cell service may be spotty.
Driving at night outside Hanga Roa is not recommended due to lighting and creatures.

Car Rental Resources

Several local car rental agencies operate in Hanga Roa. Major international chains are missing. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Rental Considerations

4x4 vehicles are recommended for less-paved roads.
Inspect car for existing damage before acceptance.
DiscoverCars.com for car rental comparisons.

Sea/River Arrivals Limited

Maritime journeys to Easter Island is generally for cruise ship visits. No regular ferry services exist.

Sea Travel Info

Easter Island is a stop for a few South Pacific cruise itineraries.
Cruise ships anchor offshore; passengers tender to Hanga Roa port.
No river transportation options exist.

Immigration at Seaports

Cruise passengers clear Chilean immigration on board or at first mainland port.
Easter Island entry requirements still apply.
Cruise ship operators usually manage these procedures for occupants.

From Hanga Roa port, it is a brief walk into town.
Taxis, car rentals, and tour operators are available there.
Easy onward travel for accommodation or exploration.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Chile currently has no specific departure or exit tax for international flights, including from Easter Island. Airport taxes are typically covered by your airfare.

Departure Checklist

No extra charges upon departure.
Arrive at IPC at least 2 hours before domestic flight to Santiago.
Standard security checks apply.

Airport Facilities

Mataveri International The airport provides basic facilities for departing travelers. You discover a waiting area and a small snack bar/coffee shop.

Terminal Amenities

Basic amenities post-security.
Plan any last-minute purchases before security.
Boarding processes are generally efficient.

Tax Inclusion

Airport taxes are typically included in your airline ticket price.

Timing Advice

Important during high season, when the airport can be busier.

Small Airport

Limited services post-security; plan purchases beforehand.

General Transportation Tips

Car Rental Benefits

For groups, a rental car can be cheaper than daily tours or taxis. It facilitates covering all sites efficiently.

Rental Advantages

Ideal for families and groups.
Offers full island exploration with comfort.
Helps reach remote sites with ease.

Bike & Scooter Use

For solo travelers or couples, a bike provides a budget-friendly way to explore nearer sites. Scooters are agile and cheaper than cars.

Alternative Transport

Bicycles offer eco-friendly cultural immersion for short distances.
Scooters cover good distances and handle roads along the coast well.
Suitable for solo travelers or couples.

Online Booking for Car Rentals

Compare Prices

Use DiscoverCars.com to compare rates from different local agencies.

Advance Booking

Secure vehicle availability, especially during peak travel times.

Choose Vehicle Type

Select a 4x4 while discovering unpaved or rougher roads is a portion of your plan.

Note on Access

Easter Island's size and terrain do not necessitate complex infrastructure like cable cars or funiculars.

How to Get to Easter Island