Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

A remote Polynesian island famous for its mysterious moai statues and rich pre-Columbian cultural heritage. It is one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands and a major draw for archaeology and culture enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Ahu Tongariki — Explore the largest ceremonial platform on the island featuring 15 restored moai statues overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• Rano Raraku Moai Quarry — Visit the volcanic crater where nearly 95% of Rapa Nui's moai were carved, with nearly 400 statues in various stages of completion still visible.
• Anakena Beach — Relax on the island's most beautiful white sand beach and see the moai at Ahu Nau, the landing site of Polynesian settlers.
• Orongo Ceremonial Village — Hike to this sacred site perched on the crater rim of Rano Kau where the Birdman competition ceremonies once took place.
• Rano Kau Crater — Trek around this massive volcanic crater filled with freshwater reed beds and enjoy panoramic views of three motu islets.
• Te Pito Te Kura — See the largest moai ever successfully transported and erected, standing 10 meters tall on a restored ceremonial platform.
• Anakena Archaeological Museum — View the only female moai with restored white coral eyes and learn about Rapa Nui's settlement and moai-building history.
• Papa Vaka — Examine a partially restored ahu with petroglyphs of tuna fish and canoes carved into the rocks, representing traditional maritime themes.

Food to try

• Umu — A traditional earth oven feast where meat, seafood, and vegetables are slow-cooked underground wrapped in banana leaves for hours.
• Tuna Ceviche — Fresh locally caught tuna marinated in lime juice with coconut milk, cilantro, and chili peppers reflecting Pacific Island flavors.
• Curanto — A Polynesian seafood and meat stew with shellfish, fish, and potatoes traditionally cooked in volcanic stone pits.
• Poisson Cru — Raw fish salad with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice that reflects French-Polynesian culinary fusion.
• Sweet Potato and Taro — Ancient staple crops still cultivated on the island and served boiled or incorporated into traditional Rapa Nui meals.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Sites — Do not touch or climb on moai statues as they are sacred tapu (taboo) objects; stay on marked paths and hire local guides for deeper cultural understanding.
• Learn Basic Rapa Nui Language — The local people speak Te Reo Rapa Nui alongside Spanish; learning a few words shows respect and connects you to the living Polynesian culture.
• Participate in Local Festivals — Visit during Tapati Rapa Nui (February) to experience traditional competitions, crafts, and music celebrating indigenous heritage.
• Support Local Artisans — Purchase handicrafts directly from Rapa Nui artisans rather than mass-produced souvenirs to support the community and ensure authenticity.