Easter Island
10 things you need to know about Easter Island
Flights to Easter Island from Santiago can be extremely expensive, but there’s a major hack to save money: book your flights through the Spanish version of LATAM Airlines’ website. It’s cheaper (sometimes half the price) compared to the English site. You don’t need to be fluent in Spanish—just use Google Translate! This can save you hundreds of dollars on airfare.
LATAM Airlines operates 1 daily direct flight from Santiago to Easter Island, a 5-hour flight and the fastest way to reach the island. Since flights are limited and the island is remote, avoid scheduling your international flights or onward travel too close to your Easter Island flights in case of delays or cancellations. Prior to arrival, you have to fill out the Rapa Nui Entry form and submit it online as well as have registered accommodations booked.
Book an official tour guide to visit the archaeological sites in the park. While you can visit some moai sites for free, a guide will give you an in-depth history, and access to the restricted park sites. Buy a park pass online, print it and bring it with you when visiting the park. Do not book tours through your hotel/guesthouse. Instead, book directly with local guides, often much cheaper. If you need a contact, feel free to DM me.
Internet access is limited. Wi-Fi is scarce on the island. Make sure your Airbnb/ guesthouse has WiFi before you book. Also, credit cards are already widely accepted in the island. Still, bring some cash with you for tips/souvenirs. ATMs are available but come with hefty fees so best to avoid them.
Bring your own favorite snacks. Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth, which means food prices are much higher than on mainland Chile, and availability is limited. If you have specific snacks or foods you love, it’s best to bring them with you. Do your grocery shopping in Santiago before flying to stock up on essentials.
Rent a car, scooter or bike if you want to explore at your own pace. Easter Island is small, but spread out, and public transportation is nonexistent. Just remember there are no traffic lights, and wild horses often roam the roads, so drive carefully.
Catch sunrise at Ahu Tongariki & sunset at Tahai. The sunrise excursion at Ahu Tongariki is worth it IMO. There’s just something magical about seeing the sun rise from the water behind 15 Moai statues. For sunset, Tahai is the best spot and Te Moai for dinner with a sunset view was great. Reservations are recommended.
Respect the Moai and local culture. Rapa Nui people take their heritage very seriously, so touching and climbing or coming close to the statues is strictly prohibited.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and bug spray. Easter Island has strong UV race, and shade is limited at many archaeological sites. The heat is no joke so be sure to pack these before going.
Plan for limited medical facilities. Again, it’s the most remote island so medical care is basic. They have no specialists so bring any medications or supplies you may need for any health conditions you have. Travel insurance is highly recommended for this trip in case of emergencies, flight delays/cancellations.
If you ever get the chance to go—take it. There’s nowhere quite like Easter Island.
