The most common way to reach Easter Island is by flying. LATAM Airlines offers regular flights from Santiago, Chile, and occasionally from Papeete, Tahiti. The flight from Santiago takes about 5.5 hours.
If you are visiting Easter Island as a tourist and staying for less than 90 days, you typically do not need a visa. However, it’s essential to check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling. Additionally, you will need a special entry permit, the "Pase de Movilidad" which can be obtained online.
The best time to visit Easter Island is during the shoulder seasons of spring (October to November) and fall (April to May). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. The Tapati Rapa Nui festival in February is also a great time to experience the local culture, but it can be more crowded and expensive.
While it is possible to see the main sights in two or three days, it is recommended to spend at least five to seven days to fully explore the island, engage in various activities, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The must-see attractions include the iconic moai statues at Ahu Tongariki, the volcanic crater of Rano Raraku (the quarry where the moai were carved), the ceremonial village of Orongo, the beach at Anakena, and the Rano Kau volcano. Exploring the petroglyphs at Papa Vaka and visiting the museum in Hanga Roa are also highly recommended.
Easter Island can be relatively expensive due to its remote location and the cost of importing goods. Accommodation, food, and activities may be pricier than on the mainland. However, there are options for different budgets, including hostels, guesthouses, and camping sites.
Pack light, breathable clothing for the warm weather, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring archaeological sites. A light jacket is advisable for cooler evenings. Don’t forget swimwear, snorkeling gear if you have it, and a reusable water bottle.
Easter Island is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and follow local guidelines and regulations.
The primary language spoken on Easter Island is Spanish. However, the indigenous Rapa Nui language is also spoken by the local population. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by guides.
While some hotels, restaurants, and tour operators may accept US dollars, it is recommended to use Chilean Pesos for most transactions. It's best to exchange your money for local currency upon arrival.
Yes, there are a few ATMs on Easter Island, primarily located in the main town of Hanga Roa. However, they can sometimes run out of cash, so it's advisable to withdraw money as soon as you arrive and not rely on ATMs exclusively.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Hanga Roa. However, smaller shops, local markets, and some tour operators may only accept cash. It's a good idea to carry some cash for these instances.
Yes, it is a good idea to bring some cash with you. Having Chilean Pesos on hand will make it easier to pay for small purchases, tips, and places that do not accept cards.
You can exchange money at the airport, some hotels, and a few banks in Hanga Roa. The exchange rates might not be as favorable as on the mainland, so consider exchanging money before arriving on the island if possible.
It's useful to carry a mix of denominations. Small bills (1,000 to 10,000 CLP) and coins are handy for minor purchases, tips, and small businesses, while larger bills can be used for bigger expenses like meals and accommodation.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory on Easter Island. A 10% tip at restaurants is customary if service is not already included. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, tipping is a nice gesture if you received good service.
Yes, there are a few bank branches in Hanga Roa, including BancoEstado and Banco Santander. These banks offer standard services like cash withdrawals and currency exchange. However, service hours may be limited compared to mainland Chile.
