Immerse yourself in the mystical culture, epic landscapes, and ocean views of this legendary place. Visit the mysterious Moai statues, walk and drive around natural and archeological sites, and learn more about this fascinating part of Chile!
After the flight from Santiago to Easter Island, we're met at the airport by our driver and taken to the main town and capital of Easter Island, Hanga Roa, where almost 90% of Easter Island's inhabitants (the Rapa Nui) live.
We check into our hotel and then we enjoy a good night's rest, ready for tomorrow's adventure.
Ascend the dormant Rano Kau volcano, taking in panoramic views of the island and its unique geological features along the way, before arriving at a vantage point overlooking the volcanic crater lake. Continue to the sacred village of Orongo, site of the historic birdman competition, where you'll discover incredible petroglyphs emblematic of this ancient culture and gaze out at the stunning Motu Nui, Motu Iti, and Motu Kao Kao islets from the cliffside. Then, make your descent to Ahu Vinapu, an un-restored site that offers evidence of Pre-Incan architectural influence on Easter Island's culture. Your journey concludes at the quaint fishing port of Hanga Piko, where you'll visit the rehabilitated Ahu Riata.
Following the morning's half-day adventure, we'll enjoy a box lunch before setting off to find the ideal spot to witness the eclipse, guided by our expert's recommendations yet free to select the ultimate viewing location for this extraordinary phenomenon.
Post-eclipse, the afternoon is yours to relax and further explore the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Rapa Nui at your leisure.
Embark on a journey to the southern coast and explore the unrefurbished platform of Ahu Vaihu nestled in the bay of Hanga Te’e, where we will also discover the remnants of an ancient village. Our adventure continues to the Akahanga complex, believed to be the final resting place of the legendary king Hotu Matu’a.
Next, we make our way to Rano Raraku, an awe-inspiring quarry home to nearly 900 stone statues, with 397 of them majestically positioned along the slopes of this dormant volcano cradling a crater lake. Here, we'll pause for a delectable box lunch with boasting panoramic views of Rano Raraku. Our exploration proceeds to Ahu Tongariki, celebrated for its restoration of 15 Moais, marking the most significant rejuvenation endeavor on the island. Afterward, we return to the village of Hanga Roa. Next, our journey will take us to the east coast to marvel at Ahu Te Pito Kura and the enigmatic “Navel of the World.”
Finally, we reach the shores of Anakena Beach, adorned with the restored Ahus Nau Nau and Ature Huke, inviting you to bask in the serene embrace of the Pacific Ocean. Returning to the hotel, you will carry with you the spirit of this ancient land.
Overnight at Hotel O'Tai (3-stars), Hanga Roa.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch.
Departing from Hanga Roa in our vehicle, we journey to the historic remnants of Vai Tea's ancient sheep farm. Our ascent then begins, climbing nearly 500 meters in altitude until we reach the summit of Maunga Terevaka, Easter Island's youngest volcano. Atop, we are greeted by a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the island's coastline, with the vast ocean stretching into the horizon in every direction. It's in this moment that the sheer isolation of this place truly envelops you, instilling a sense of being at the edge of the world. Following a period of rest, we commence our descent, where our vehicle awaits to return us to the comfort of our hotel.
Please note: This is the only private excursion on this itinerary, the rest of the excursions are shared with other travellers.
After a morning spent packing, relaxing and soaking up final views, we are driven back to the airport in time for the flight back to Santiago... Adiós, Isla de Pascua!
Our first option will be Hotel O'tai which means "In the Coast" in Rapa Nui language. As its name implies, the hotel is just steps from the coastline and at the same time, in the heart of the village of Hanga Roa, near all the most important services. If O'tai Hotel is not available, a similar option will be offered.
For guests looking to indulge in luxury, Hare Nua presents a captivating boutique hotel experience as an excellent accommodation option. Please ask your Travel Experience Designer for more information.
Regular. Every day on request.
The trip starts at Easter Island’s Mataveri Airport at the moment of your arrival and finishes on day 5 at the same point, approximately two hours before your flight leaves.
The programmed walks are easy and over fairly flat terrain.
18 maximum plus staff.
In Eastern Island, the vehicles for regular tours are normally 20 or 14 seat minibusses.
Temperatures peak at around 30°C (85°F) from December to March. Winters are mild, with a low of around 13.8°C (57°F). The Pacific wind blows continuously, sometimes from several directions at once, which tends to keep the temperature fairly cool. Rainfall averages at around 1,118 mm (44") a year. Heavy rainfall and storms occasionally hit the island, particularly in the winter months (May to August) but cyclones or hurricanes do not occur in this zone of the Pacific.
We recommend the following items: small daypack, usual outdoors clothes including waterproof hiking shoes and socks, waterproof parka & pants, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, bathing suit, and a good camera!
We reserve the right to change the order of the days in any itinerary at the sole discretion of the trip guide and based on operational considerations. The trip guide can also modify, change or eliminate part of the itinerary based on safety/weather considerations.
To book this adventure, please email us at reservations@cascada.travel.
Updated October 4th, 2022
Dear Traveler,
We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile.
Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:
In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!
Best,
The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia