Last Updated on September 19, 2022 by Boodle Mart

Magical Mystery Tour of Easter Island

In a land far, far away in the southeastern Pacific Ocean on the outpost of Polynesian islands. Slightly over a 5-hour flight from Santiago, Chile, step into the magical mystery of Easter Island. Known as Rapa Nui by its Polynesian descended inhabits and Isla de Pascua as the Island is located in the territory of Chile, South America. The official language spoken is Spanish. 

Easter Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Island, guarded by monolithic Moai statues, face inland, not towards the sea. The Moai statues are of intrigue because of Easter Island’s desolate location at the same time, why the Rapa Nui constructed and how they transported the figures.

Who, What, Why

The Moai statues, carved from solidified volcanic ash, stand at least 20 feet tall (6.096 Meters). The figures believed to have honoured chieftains, high standing members of society and protect the Island’s inhabitants. The Moai heads with pouting lips, and the sizeable nose is disproportionately large compared to its elongated body.

The Moai statues moved by a pulling system of ropes that twisted the Moai back and forth. Wooden frames possibly used as well — the same method used at Stonehenge. At one point, Easter Island had plenty of trees; however, the Island is now barren.

The statues date between 1200 and 1500 AD and are estimated to be over 500 years old.

Getting Around

Your best bet is to do a tour of the Island as there is no public transportation on Easter Island and taxis can be expensive. Might as well sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. A tour (hotel included) will take you to all the key Moai statue locations. Included in a tour are the dormant Rano Kau volcano and tropical beaches. Simultaneously, there is an abundance of hiking trails rated from easy to medium difficulty. Nonetheless, if preferred, one can also rent a car to get around.

If you are a fan of Archaeology, history, the rugged outdoors, and ambience, Easter Island is worth visiting. A must-do is a stopover at the post office to get your passport stamped. A small souvenir to have when flipping through your passport reminiscing of bygone travels. A note on the food, delicious, fresh-caught seafood! Nothing more to be said 🙂

As I was writing, I came across and glad to participate in the Photo Challenge: Favourite Travel Memories sponsored by Wanderlustig.