Our dream
It all started back in 2016, when Leollyne and I met in Shanghai, China. At some point, I had mentioned her about Easter Island and the dream of going there someday. Not long after, my dream became our dream. The following year, Leollyne painted this at a studio in Shanghai and it was her present to me for our first anniversary. We had to take a similar photo to this painting on our visit.
After years wanting to visit the mystic Easter Island, our dream came true. This remote island is one of those places where you want to immerse yourself in the native culture. The Chilean territory is a unique place for the adventurers and those seeking to understand the history of our world.
Easter Island, known locally as Rapa Nui, is one of the most fascinating places in the Pacific. A remote island famous for its giant stone statues called Moais. Also famous for its ancient culture, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and sense of mystery that attracts travellers from around the world.
While visiting Chile during the winter, our options were to visit southern glaciers, the Atacama desert or this beautiful island. The choice was clear. It had been long enough on our bucket list and the moment felt right.
After a five hour flight, we arrived at this very welcoming island in the middle of nowhere. Previously arranged rental car for our 5 day stay in a house about 15 minutes drive from town.
Why it stands out?
What makes Easter Island special is that it feels unlike almost anywhere else on Earth. Simple. It’s one of the most isolated places in the world, which gives it a quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The main attraction are the Moais, the enormous stone figures carved by the early Rapa Nui people. There are around 900 statues across the island. These statues are not just impressive to see. They also offer a powerful window into a unique Polynesian civilisation and its history.
Culture and history
A visit to Easter Island is also a visit to living culture, not just ancient ruins. The Rapa Nui people have preserved language, music, dance, rituals, and ceremonies that continue to shape the island’s identity today.
Important sites to visit are Ahu Tongariki, Rano Raraku and Orongo, where many moai were carved. These linked to the birdman ceremony, help visitors understand how deeply history and tradition are woven into the landscape. That blend of heritage and scenery is a big reason the island is considered so memorable.
Natural beauty
Easter Island is more than statues. It has volcanic craters, coastal cliffs, open grasslands, caves, and calm beaches like Anakena, a place for relaxation and swimming.
Because the island is small but varied, it is easy to explore different landscapes in a short trip. The setting in the middle of the Pacific you will feel that you are visiting a truly special destination.
Why visit?
It is a good place if you enjoy history, archaeology, nature, and destinations with a strong sense of identity. The island is ideal for travellers who want something meaningful rather than just a typical beach holiday.
You can spend time learning about the Moais, exploring volcanic terrain, relaxing by the sea, and experiencing Rapa Nui culture. For many visitors, that combination makes Easter Island not just beautiful, but unforgettable.
When looking for souvenirs, you will find plenty of small shops in town. You can also visit the mercado, next to the visitor center.
Divers must visit the sunken Moai off the coast of Hanga Roa. This Moai was not carved by the Rapa Nui civilisation, but a replica that is a great memory.
Our thoughts
In our opinion, Easter Island is worth visiting because it offers uniqueness. A rare depth, a mysterious past, a living indigenous culture, and a natural scenery in one place. Once you return home and you tell your friends you visited Easter Island, they will be in awe!
For us, the visit left such an impression that we wanted to keep it forever in our minds. For this reason we had our memories tattooed at Mokomae tattoo shop. For sure a great conversation starter.
In Easter Island you will not find fast food joints, so take care of your cravings before you arrive. What you will find is great local food. During the time we visited, tuna was the catch and we loved it. In our opinion, there is nothing better than freshly made food.
Few destinations combine so much history and atmosphere in such a small area. That is why Rapa Nui continues to capture the imagination of travellers from around the world.
Keep traveling, keep learning!