The previous post highlighted all the must-see attractions on Easter Island. Now, let’s dive into some practical tips and advice to make your trip even more memorable!
📱 For the best mobile network coverage, go with Entel over Movistar.
✈️ Currently, the only flights to Easter Island (Rapa Nui) are from Santiago, Chile. However, a new route to Tahiti is in the works, so plan accordingly based on your travel dates.
📝 When you board your flight in Santiago, you’ll go through a special security check for Easter Island. If you want a stamp in your passport, be sure to ask! Otherwise, it will only be stamped on the PDI form, which is collected when you board.
🗺️ Make sure to download offline maps, as signal can be spotty outside of the main town.
🎑 While you might not find postcards in Santiago, they are readily available at the airport and souvenir shops on the island.
📝 Getting a stamp at the visitor center is free, so don’t miss out on this little keepsake.
🕑 The locals on the island have a laid-back lifestyle, so the opening hours listed on Google Maps may not always be accurate. A place that says it closes at 7 PM might actually be empty by 3 PM, including the post office, visitor center, restaurants, and various stores.
💰 It’s wise to exchange Chilean pesos in cash before you leave Santiago. Most accommodations and supermarkets on the island only accept Chilean cash. Some places may accept US dollars, but they need to be in pristine condition. (PS: Many restaurants still take card payments.)
🚗 Manual transmission cars are more common and affordable for rental, while automatic ones come at a premium. We recommend “Amar pascua Rent a car.” We rented an automatic for 55,000 pesos per day, which was nearly half the price of other rental services. Returning the car at the airport incurs an additional 20,000 pesos.
👤 Hiring a private tour guide with a car allows you to customize your itinerary. The cost is 80,000 pesos per person for a full day and 60,000 pesos for a half day. Our guide, Vaitea, was quite shy but very knowledgeable. You can find his WhatsApp contact on the official website.
🔍 Some coastal attractions are not accessible by car, and Google Maps navigation can be unreliable. Be prepared to do some exploring on foot.
🌧️ The weather on the island is highly unpredictable, with up to eight rain showers in a single day. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry and comfortable.
🍴 For a delicious meal, try the seaside restaurant Kanahau, or if you’re looking for generous portions, Oheho is a great choice.
🗿 The museum on the island was closed in December last year, so check its status before planning a visit.
🗿 The road to Tongariki is bumpy, and if you’re there for the sunrise, arrive at least half an hour early to catch the first light. If you’re driving, start your journey early to avoid any delays.
🌌 After sunset, the sky transforms from gray to a beautiful light purple within just half an hour, creating a magical atmosphere.
