Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is the most isolated place on earth, 3000 kms off the coast of Chile. It is a beautiful and mysterious destination with its volcanic craters, lava formations, incredible white sand beaches, blue water and of course the archaeological treasures of its original inhabitants - huge 100 ton basalt statues (Moai). The exact significance of these sculptures is unknown, but they are thought to be many hundreds of years old.
Highlights of Easter Island include:
• Mysterious archaeological sites
• Spectacular Rano Kau Volcano
• Large fallen moai of Akahanga
• Rano Raraku quarry
When to Go
A mild year-round climate provides ideal conditions for exploring the island on foot or by bicycle. Rain falls more during the months between Apr - May. The island is best visited as a stopover between Australia and Chile.
Culture
Easter Island is best known for the giant stone monoliths, known as Moai, that dot the coastline. In addition to the statues, the islanders possessed the Rongorongo script, the only written language in Oceania. Easter Island is also home to many petroglyphs (rock carvings), as well as traditional wood carvings, tapa (barkcloth) crafts, tattooing, string figures, dance and music.
