The isolated, ancient magic of Easter Island
Over 3,700 kilometres off the west coast of Chile, you can find Easter Island, or Rapa Nui as it is known to its native inhabitants. However you may refer to it an Easter Island holiday will reveal to you one of the most isolated and mysterious places in the world.
Standing guard over this exposed triangle of volcanic rock seemingly lost in the South Pacific are the iconic moai statues. Over 800 gigantic human figures carved from the island’s volcanic rock stand sentinel over the eerie, spellbinding landscape, and have baffled experts and inspired romantics for centuries.
Some thought that the monumental masons who built them were of Peruvian descent, due to similarities between Rapa Nui and Incan stonework. Others suggested that the island is a remnant of a lost continent, or the product of extraterrestrial influences. Archeological evidence, however, points to the discovery of the island by Polynesians in around 400AD, and the subsequent development of an impressive, enigmatic culture.
As well as the famous statues, Easter Island has many petroglyphs (rock carvings) and is famous for its traditional crafts, including wood carving, tapa (bark cloth) work, tattooing, string figures, dance and music. The Tapati Rapa Nui festival is held at the start of February, a great time to visit and explore the local culture and history.
With extra flight routes from Santiago, expert guides and a new boutique property, La Perouse, we can provide all the ingredients for your perfect Easter Island holiday.