ISLA DE PASCUA - CHILE
Easter Island, known by its local name Rapa Nui, is a Chilean territory in the South Pacific and one of the most isolated inhabited places in the world. It holds close to nine hundred moai, the stone statues carved by the Rapa Nui culture, set on ceremonial platforms (ahu). Main sites include the Rano Raraku quarry, the Ahu Tongariki group, the Orongo ceremonial centre and Anakena beach.
The only town is Hanga Roa, where lodging is concentrated, from family-run guesthouses to upper-tier hotels. Most services, restaurants and agencies are in the town, a few minutes from the airport.
The archaeological sites form part of Rapa Nui National Park; access requires a ticket and, at points such as Rano Raraku and Orongo, an authorised guide. Distances are covered by vehicle or organised excursion; booking transport and visits in advance is advisable.
Useful information
Access
Mataveri Airport (IPC), in Hanga Roa; flights from Santiago (SCL) of about 5 h 35 min, operated by LATAM.
Season
Mild subtropical climate year-round; busiest in the austral summer (December to March) and around the Tapati festival in February.
Currency · time zone · language
Chilean peso (CLP) · UTC-6/-5 with summer time (two hours behind the mainland) · Spanish and Rapa Nui.
Operations
The Rapa Nui National Park ticket is paid on arrival; keep it, as it is valid for several days, and follow site access rules. Rano Raraku and Orongo require a local guide. Book lodging and a vehicle in advance. A minimum of three nights is advisable.