Easter Island is an incredible and mysterious place, famous for its impressive moai statues and its rich Polynesian culture.
Here are some suggestions for places to visit on Easter Island:
Rapanui National Park
It is a unique place in the world due to its archaeological, cultural, and natural richness.
Easter Island National Park, and the moai statues within it, were declared a National Historic Monument in 1935 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.
The park covers an area of 7,130 hectares, where numerous moai statues—giant stone sculptures that have become a symbol of the island—can be found. In addition, there are numerous caves, craters, and other geological formations that make the landscape very diverse
The park’s flora and fauna are highly diverse, featuring many endemic species. Notable animal species include seabirds such as the Easter petrel, the tern, and the Rapa Nui gallinule.
The park is open to the public throughout the year, and there are several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park and see different archaeological and natural sites. Additionally, the park provides various facilities for visitors, including information centers, viewpoints, and picnic areas. This is the official website of the park.
It is important to note that, due to the fragility of the ecosystems and archaeological sites in the park, visitors should follow specific rules and restrictions during their visit to prevent damage and preserve the island’s heritage.
Hanga Roa
It is the main city and capital of Easter Island, located on the western side of the island and housing the majority of the island’s population, which is around 7,000 people.
The town of Hanga Roa serves as the primary hub for tourism on Easter Island, with several hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors. The city also hosts various important cultural and historical sites, including the Easter Island National Park and the iconic moai statues scattered throughout the island. Despite its remote location, Hanga Roa is relatively well-connected, with a small airport serving domestic and international flights, as well as regular ferry service to and from mainland Chile.
Volcanoes
As we have mentioned, various volcanic eruptions shaped the island. There are three main volcanoes:
Rano Kau: It is the largest volcano on the island, with a height of 324 meters. It has a large crater at its summit, which is filled with water. This crater is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including water birds and endemic plants.
Poike: Located at the eastern end of the island, Poike is the oldest of the three volcanoes. It stands at a height of 370 meters and features numerous cliffs and steep slopes.
Terevaka: This is the tallest volcano on the island, reaching a height of 507 meters. It is situated at the northwest end of the island and offers impressive views of the island and the ocean.
Beaches
Ovahe: Also known as “Playa Anakena Pepe,” it is not suitable for swimming. It is a beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by volcanic rocks and stunning cliffs. It is located near some important archaeological sites on Easter Island, such as Ahu Ovahe and Ahu Anakenar.
Pea: Best known for being in the city of Hanga Roa, although very small, it is perfect for enjoying the sea and water sports.
Anakena: One of the most popular beaches on the island, renowned for its white sand and crystal-clear water.
Anakena Beach is a medium-sized beach with tourist facilities such as umbrellas, beach chairs, bathrooms, and showers. There are also several restaurants and food stalls near the beach offering local cuisine.
In addition to relaxing on the beach, visitors can explore nearby carved stone platforms and the hill of Ahu Nau Nau, which features a row of moai (stone monuments) facing the sea. Anakena Beach is also popular among surfers and divers.
Caves
The caves of Easter Island are natural geological formations found on the island. The island has volcanic origins, resulting in numerous lava caves and lava tunnels formed during volcanic eruptions.
The most famous caves on Easter Island are the Ana Kai Tangata Caves, located on the southern coast of the island. These caves are known for their rock paintings, dating back over 1,000 years, depicting human and animal figures.
Other popular caves on the island include the Ana Te Pahu Caves (pictured), situated on the northern coast of the island, and the Ana Te’e Caves, located near Anakena Beach.
Easter Island’s caves are an important cultural and tourist heritage, with many of them accessible to visitors. It’s important to note that some caves may require a guide to explore them safely and responsibly.
Archaeological Sites
:: Moai
We’ve already discussed the significance of moai in Rapa Nui culture, but now let’s delve into them. Which ones are the most important, and where are they located on the island?
:: Ahu Platforms
The Ahu platforms are perhaps one of the most imposing and important elements throughout the island. Did you notice that there are two types of moai—semi-buried and standing?
Well, the ones that are completely upright are on a platform that many may not be aware of, called Ahu. This rectangular structure, Ahu, is a ceremonial platform where they buried the most important leaders and then erected the moai to channel the energy (mana) of these non-living beings.
The one in the photo is Ahu Nau Nau, located in Anakena Bay.
:: Ceremonial Centers
Easter Island boasts several ceremonial centers where remnants of Rapa Nui culture and tradition can be observed. In these locations, you’ll witness how the natives read the stars, encounter remnants of religious rituals, and marvel at incredible archaeological displays that continue to resonate to this day. Perhaps the most significant is the Orongo ceremonial village, but you shouldn’t miss exploring the other sites as well.
Traditional Cuisine
Rapa Nui is not only unique for its monumental Moai statues but also for having one of the oldest cooking methods. It’s called ‘umu pae,’ roughly translating to ‘food under the earth.’ This is the process by which the island’s original inhabitants traditionally prepared their meals.
It has long been considered a ritual, a supplication to their ancestral god Make-Make to receive blessings for significant events.
It’s interesting to note that the preparation of food using hot stones is present in other areas of Chile. While it’s called ‘umu’ on Easter Island, it’s referred to as ‘curanto’ in Chiloé and ‘watia’ in northern Chile.
Umu is a simple dish that can include meats, fish, seafood, and vegetables. It is prepared by digging a circular hole in the ground, which is then covered with stones, usually volcanic
These are just some of the many tourist attractions on Easter Island. Make sure to savor the local cuisine, immerse yourself in the culture, and appreciate the natural beauty of the island while you’re there.
