Easter Island - Must-See Attractions and Experiences
- RetiredCormac
- Aug 17
- 2 min read
Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is one of the most intriguing and isolated inhabited islands in the world. Located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, this UNESCO World Heritage site enthrals visitors with its fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, its iconic moai statues. We are visiting Easter Island in February - as part of an extended South American Tour.
TL;DR
Easter Island has a multitude of attractions and experiences that I'm told (by the internet and youtube) that I must consider during my short visit. Here's what I think I need to see and do.
Our hotel has let us know that we need to buy a ticket to visit the statues. The cost of the Rapa Nui National Park is $95 USD each for our stay. And that we will need a guide for many of the locations we will want to visit - I've marked these with a *.
Rano Raraku*
We watched a youtube video and Rano Raraku looks epic. It's the quarry/factory where the famous moai statues were carved, and is an essential stop on Easter Island. It's actually a volcanic crater and I understand that you can see over 400 moai in various stages of completion.
The sheer scale of these monoliths, some measuring up to 33 feet tall and weighing over 80 tons, is going to leave a lasting impression - I'm sure.
A no brainer to book for a visit.
Ahu Tongariki*
Ahu Tongariki is the largest ahu (ceremonial platform) on the island, showcasing 15 impressive moai statues lined up against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This site was remarkably reconstructed after being toppled during the island's tumultuous past.
I think this is the iconic image of Easter Island that we've all seen.
Again - something we need to see.
Hanga Roa
Hanga Roa, the main town of Easter Island. Its where our booked hotel is, so will be easy to explore for food, drinks and maybe some culture.
No planning required.
Orongo*
Orongo is an ancient ceremonial village linked to the Birdman cult - which sounds interesting. It is archeologically significant and offers spectacular cliffside views over the Pacific and nearby islets.
We'll look a little more at this.
Anakena Beach
This sounds an ideal place for a picnic and swim in the calm waters. Looking at google maps it is about 17km by bike, and relatively flat, so that may be an idea.
Look at bike hire and picnic options
Rano Kau
Rano Kau, the island's second-largest volcano has a stunning crater lake. It looks like a 3 to 4 hour return hike from the hotel that we have booked. Hiking to the summit should provide an excellent vantage point.
No planning required
Attend a Traditional Easter Island Dance Performance
We saw on the youtube video that there was traditional dance performances available and shouldn't be missed.
We'll check that out when we are there.
For more on our planned trip to Easter Island;
Happy travels!
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