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Where to Stay in Easter Island

Where to Stay in Easter Island

Easter Island Chile Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Dormitory beds and private rooms, typically with shared toilet facilities. They are budget-friendly and present opportunities to meet others.

  • Cabañas (Bungalows/Cabins)

    Highly sought-after, self-contained units typically with kitchenettes. They range from basic to well-equipped. Cabañas are ideal for self-catering and longer stays, having more independence.

  • Guesthouses (Hospedajes/Residenciales)

    Family-run places with private rooms, often breakfast included. They present a local, personal experience, with interaction with Rapanui hosts.

  • Hotels

    From small, boutique hotels with unique character to larger, full-service hotels with features like pools and on-site restaurants.

Specialty Lodging

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-end properties with exceptional service, amenities, and often prime ocean-view locations. They provide a refined experience with comforts and often include unique cultural elements.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Many cabañas and some apartments are available for short-term rental. They are found on platforms like Airbnb or through local agencies specializing in island properties. Good for groups or longer stays.

  • Camping

    Officially designated campgrounds exist, with basic facilities. Camping outside these designated areas, especially within Rapa Nui National Park, is strictly forbidden to conserve the environment and sites. Camping Mihinoa is a popular choice.

  • Homestay & Community Tourism

    Some guesthouses function as homestays, where you stay with a local family.

Neighborhood Guide

Hanga Roa is the central hub for every place to stay on Easter Island.

Hanga Roa Overall

Benefits
  • Direct access to all amenities: restaurants, shops, ATMs, gas station, and hospital.
  • Central location for booking tours or renting vehicles.
  • Near significant sites like Ahu Tahai.
  • Good access to airport and port.
Considerations
  • Can be slightly noisier than rural areas, yet very quiet for a town.

Waterfront Avenida Policarpo Toro

Benefits
  • Main street along the harbor.
  • Many restaurants, shops, and activity providers.
  • Lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
Considerations
  • Can be a bit busier.

Outside Hanga Roa

Benefits
  • Offers seclusion and peace.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings.
  • A true escape from urban noise.
Considerations
  • Limited lodging options.
  • Rental car or taxis needed for town access.
  • Less direct access to meals, supplies, and tours.
  • Extremely isolated, plan movements after dark.

General Safety & Ambiance

Safety

Easter Island generally preserves a very safe environment everywhere. Hanga Roa is well-lit in its main areas. Rural areas are safe, but very isolated.

Noise Levels

Hanga Roa is generally quiet, especially away from the main waterfront street. Rural accommodations present extreme tranquility, with nature sounds as your main background.

Booking Strategies

Ensuring your stay at the right time.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (January - February, especially during Tapati): Book flights and accommodation 6-12 months prior. Prices peak at this time.
  • Shoulder Seasons (March - April, September - November): Book 3-6 months prior, particularly for popular places. This period presents good balance of availability and price.
  • Low Season (May - August): Availability closer to the date, typically 1-3 months prior. Booking ahead is still good for selection and prices.
  • Price Fluctuations: Prices can easily double or triple between low and high seasons. Travel dates based on budget will greatly influence costs.

Booking Channels & Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb are widely used for hotels, hostels, and cabañas.
  • Local Systems: Some local places might run their own websites or need direct email/phone booking. Checking directly can reveal unique selections or better deals.
  • Negotiation: Not common on Easter Island. Prices are generally fixed. Attempting to negotiate walk-in rates is unlikely to work.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Policies vary. Many accommodations call for a deposit, often 50%, upon booking, with the rest due upon arrival. Cancellation policies may be strict. Review them carefully.

Tips for Booking

For the best choice
  • Book well in advance, especially for peak season or specific properties.
  • Consider local booking systems for unique finds.
  • Review all policies before committing.
Budget Considerations
  • Travel during shoulder or low season for better rates.
  • Cabañas for self-catering can reduce food costs.
  • Hostels are good for solo or budget travelers.
  • Camping is the most economical.

Important Note

Flight & Accommodation Peak

During Tapati Rapa Nui Festival (early February), both flights and lodging options are at their highest supply and price.

Direct Support

Booking directly with local establishments, where possible, supports the island's community.

Local Contact

Accommodation Recommendations

Easter Island has something to suit every traveler, from budget-conscious explorers to those seeking luxury.

Traveler Specifics

Family-Friendly Stays

Many cabañas present multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities, ideal for families.

  • Seek properties with gardens or open spaces for children.
Solo Traveler Options

Hostels offer great social opportunities, for meeting others and tour companions.

  • Guesthouses present a safe, welcoming setting with a more personal touch.

Extended Stays & Cultural Connection

Long-Stay Accommodations

Cabañas fit longer stays due to self-catering facilities and spacious layouts.

  • This permits a relaxed and immersive island life experience.
Cultural Significance

Many locally-owned guesthouses share Rapanui culture through their hosts.

  • Some luxury hotels incorporate local design and materials.
  • Choose properties visibly supporting local culture and employees.

Online Booking Options

  • Booking Platforms

    Booking.com: Global platform. Agoda: Asian strength. IHG Hotels: International chain.

  • Specialized Lodging

    Hostelworld: Budget accommodation specialist. Vrbo: Vacation rental booking site. TrustedHousesitters: House/pet sitting exchange.

  • Local Feel

    Many locally owned guesthouses and cabañas often offer unique experiences. Check directly with them for specific arrangements.

  • Reviews

    Consult user reviews on booking platforms to decide on your stay.

Accommodation Comparison

  • Hostel (CLP 25,000 - 40,000)

    Dorms, shared facilities, social atmosphere. Best for budget and solo travelers.

  • Budget Cabaña (CLP 40,000 - 80,000)

    Basic kitchen, private bath, simple furnishings. Best for budget couples/small families, self-catering.

  • Mid-range Hotel/Cabaña (CLP 80,000 - 150,000)

    Private rooms, amenities, often breakfast. Best for mid-range travelers, comfort, convenience.

  • Luxury Hotel/Resort (CLP 180,000 - 500,000+)

    High-end amenities, pools, fine dining. Best for luxury travelers, special occasions.

Camping Details

Price & Features CLP 10,000 - 20,000 pp

Tent sites, shared bathrooms, basic kitchen.

  • Best for extreme budget travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Camping Mihinoa is the main designated campground.
Regulations

Camping outside designated areas, especially within Rapa Nui National Park, is strictly forbidden.

  • This measure protects the environment and archaeological sites.

Supporting Local

Cabañas

Many cabañas are locally owned, a direct way to support the Rapanui community.

Guesthouses

Family-run guesthouses help you find Rapanui hosts for a local experience.

Hotels

Some larger hotels work to incorporate local staff and cultural elements.

Where to Stay in Easter Island. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation