Easter Island

Known as “Rapa Nui” to the natives, this is one of the the most isolated places on earth, located 3,600 km west of mainland Chile. You can fly form Santiago, Chile or Lima, Peru to the small town of Hanga Roa, where the island’s 2500 inhabitants live. You should estimate a minimum of three days stay to be able to explore the islands’ highlights. You can start by visiting Rano Kau Volcano, the biggest on the island, whose enormous crater is now a fresh water lake with floating green fields of totora reeds. On the same direction, the partially restored village of Orongo has 48 oval buildings built out of overlapping stone slabs. Over the cliffs you can see an amazing string of “bird man” petroglyphs.

Along the southern coast, you will find Ahus Vaihu and Akahanga. Ahu, or “sacred places,” and refers to the rectangular stone platform on which the famous Moai (enormous, 100-ton basalt statues) were often erected. A must is the volcanic crater of Rano Raraku, the most impressive site on the island. Seventy standing sentinels, embedded up to their shoulders in grass, lead the way to the quarry inside of the impressive crater rim. This is where the Moai were cut from volcanic tuff, and some 150 figures remain here in all stages of completion.

But if you are also looking forward to relaxing, visit the Anakena beach and go for a swim in this piece of South Pacific paradise. If you prefer a more active experience, let Oyikil arrange for a biking tour or a hike with a specialized local guide along impressive cliffs and enjoy a gourmet picnic with a majestic sunset.