Things to Do in Easter Island

Easter Island sits in splendid isolation roughly 2,300 miles west of Chile's mainland, making it one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth. This tiny triangular island, known locally as Rapa Nui, is home to just over 5,000 people and nearly 1,000 massive stone statues called moai that have captivated visitors for centuries. The island's Polynesian culture remains remarkably intact despite its political ties to Chile, and you'll find yourself immersed in a world where ancient traditions blend with modern island life. The landscape is surprisingly varied for such a small place - rolling grasslands dotted with volcanic craters, dramatic cliff coastlines, and pristine beaches that feel like they belong in the South Pacific rather than off the coast of South America.

The dining scene revolves around fresh seafood, particularly tuna and mahi-mahi, often prepared with Polynesian influences alongside Chilean staples. Hanga Roa has a surprising variety of restaurants for such a remote location, from casual spots serving empanadas and ceviche to upscale establishments offering tuna tartare and locally caught lobster. Prices tend to be higher than mainland Chile since most ingredients are flown in, but the quality is generally good and portions are generous. Worth trying local specialties like umu (earth oven-cooked meals) and po'e (sweet potato dessert), though these are often only available at cultural shows or special events rather than regular restaurants.

Easter Island's subtropical climate means it's visitable year-round, though the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November offer the most comfortable weather with fewer crowds and reasonable prices. Summer (December-March) brings warmer temperatures perfect for swimming but also higher humidity, more rain, and peak tourist numbers that can make popular sites feel crowded. Winter months (June-August) are cooler and windier but still pleasant for sightseeing, plus you'll have many sites nearly to yourself - just bring layers for chilly mornings and evenings when temperatures can drop into the 60s.