On the 11th day of my South American adventure, I finally set foot on the enigmatic Easter Island 🗿. This remote island is over 3,600 kilometers from Santiago, Chile. After a nearly 5-hour flight with LATAM Airlines, we touched down in this incredible place! The weather was simply perfect, and our luck was unbelievable; the sky was an impossibly vivid blue, almost like something out of a dream ☁️.
Here’s a rundown of the attractions we visited:
1️⃣ **Rano Raraku Quarry**
This site is a must-see, brimming with Moai statues. You can also catch a distant view of Ahu Tongariki from here.
2️⃣ **Ahu Tongariki**
Famous for its 15 majestic Moai statues 🗿, this spot is an absolute must-visit. Missing it would be like not visiting the island at all!
3️⃣ **Te Pito Kura, the Navel of the World**
While it didn’t feel essential, this stone-like navel has a unique cultural significance worth exploring if you have the time.
4️⃣ **Anakena Beach**
Ideal for a relaxing holiday, but if you’re only staying for 1-2 days, it might not be a top priority. The beach is free and offers some Moai statues to admire, making it a pleasant stop 🏖️.
5️⃣ **Moai-Tahai, the only Moai on the island with eyes**
This spot is perfect for a romantic evening. Enjoy dinner while watching the sunset, and take photos with the unique Moai statues 😬.
6️⃣ **Orongo Birdman Village and Rano Kau Crater**
The Birdman Village is compact but fascinating. Walk around, take pictures, and explore the nearby crater. The small island off the coast is where the legendary bird egg competition took place.
Easter Island is known for its high prices; a simple bottle of water can set you back $3, mainly because the local water is salty and not suitable for drinking 😥. During my stay, I savored wild guava and mangoes that had fallen from the trees 🥭. The island is also home to many friendly dogs! One evening, as I sat on the lawn, enjoying a hand-held meal and waiting for the sunset, the dogs kept coming over to lick my hands, refusing to leave ☺️.
Having a BBQ dinner by the sea, watching the sun dip below the horizon 🌅, was an unforgettable experience. To top it off, the hotel owner and local guide even gifted us small Moai trinkets as souvenirs!
Until next time, Easter Island 🗿
