How to Visit Easter Island (Rapa Nui): Everything You Need to Know
Rapa Nui (Easter Island) is one of the most remote and fascinating places on Earth. From the towering Moai statues that guard the coastline to the vibrant culture and traditions of the Rapa Nui people, every corner of the island feel like it has a story to tell (because it does!).
Whether you’re drawn by the mystery of the Moai or the natural beauty, this island will absolutely steal your heart and you’ll carry a piece of it with you forever.
However, visiting isn’t as simple as booking a flight and showing up – you’ll need to plan ahead for entry requirements, national park permits, and guided tours. But trust me, it’s worth every effort.
In this guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know, including how to get there, where to stay, how to explore Rapa Nui National Park, plus insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Let’s dive in!
Guides to help you plan your trip to Easter Island
27 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Easter Island
How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Next Road Trip (Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples)
Ahu Tongariki at sunrise
Where is Rapa Nui?
Rapa Nui, also known as Isla de Pascua or Te Pito o Te Henua, is a little dot of land in the middle of the vast southeastern Pacific Ocean. Although it is a territory of Chile in South America, Easter Island is considered part of Polynesia.
It is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, located about 2,300 miles (3,700 km) west of Chile and roughly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) southeast of Tahiti.
Checklist: What to Do Before You Visit Easter Island
Rapa Nui has strict entry and tour guide requirements. Here’s a list of things to do BEFORE you get to the airport:
- Complete the Rapa Nui Entry Form online. Have screenshots or email confirmations ready to present at customs.
- Book a guide through a tour agency or from this list of certified local guides.
- Purchase your Rapa Nui National Park pass online and print it. Each person needs a park pass.
- Book a place to stay and keep proof of accommodation handy for customs.
- Have return flight details ready for customs.
Stargazing tour at Anakena Beach, Rapa Nui
How to get to Rapa Nui
Rapa Nui is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so flying is your only option.
The easiest way to get there is on a direct flight with LATAM Airlines from Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago, Chile, to Mataveri International Airport (IPC), which is the most remote airport in the world.
Flights leave from Santiago’s domestic Terminal 1 (Terminal Nacional) and the flight takes about 5 hours.
Despite Easter Island being one of the most remote islands in the world, you can sometimes find flights for as low as $200 round trip from Santiago. The best way to get a deal is to set up a Google Flights alert to track prices and then snag the deal when it pops up.
You can also occasionally find flights from Tahiti, although these are way less frequent and a lot more expensive.
Arrival Requirements for Easter Island
Easter Island has its own customs process, so there are a few things you need to have before you get to the airport. If you don’t have these ready to show at customs, they won’t let you fly to Easter Island:
- Screenshots or email confirmations of your completed entry forms.
- Proof of your accommodation.
- Your return flight details.
Heads up: They made us check our camera tripod at security, which was a first for us. If you’re traveling with one, pack it in your checked bag to avoid any hassle and expensive fees.
Moai at Rano Raraku
How to get around Easter Island
Getting around Easter Island is pretty straightforward, and mostly depends on where you’re staying and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
Most people stay in Hanga Roa, which is the only town on the whole island. The town is very safe and you can easily walk to plenty of restaurants, shops, a local beach, and a Moai site called Ahu Tahai.
But here’s the thing: most of the island is part of Rapa Nui National Park, and you need a guide to visit most of the archaeological sites. This means that you can’t do much site seeing on your own, so you don’t necessarily need to rent a car if you’re planning to join guided tours.
That said, if you want more flexibility or if you’re staying outside of Hanga Roa, then renting a car is the best way to get around Easter Island. There are a few spots you can visit on your own with a car, which I cover below.
Wild horses on Easter Island
Renting a car on Easter Island
Renting a car on Easter Island might seem tricky at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here’s what you need to know about renting a car:
What You’ll Need for a Car Rental:
- A valid driver’s license (no International Driving Permit required)
- Be at least 22 years old
- A credit card for the security deposit.
There are no major international rental companies, but local companies like O Nei Rental Car or Amar Pascua are good options. Cars can sell out during high season, so it’s best to book in advance.
You don’t need a 4×4 since most roads are in good condition, and a regular 4×2 will get you to key spots like Anakena Beach or Rano Kau Crater. Offline Google Maps works perfectly, and the island’s roads are pretty simple to navigate.
There’s no comprehensive car insurance, so you’re responsible for any damage. Drive carefully and watch out for potholes, wandering horses, and livestock that cross the road without warning.
Most cars are manual, so book early and let the rental car company know if you need an automatic.
Expect to pay $75–100 USD per day, and remember that the only gas stations are in Hanga Roa, so fill up before heading out.
Lastly, avoid the rough route to Ana Kakenga (the road along the west coast between Ahu Tahai and Ahu Te Peu). The road turns extremely rough just past Ahu Tahai and it’s not worth getting stuck or popping a tire in such a remote area of the island without cell service.
Road tripping Easter Island
What are the best places to see in Rapa Nui National Park?
Rapa Nui National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the famous Moai statues (which is the entire reason you’re here!).
As of 2022, Rapa Nui National Park requires all visitors to be accompanied by an accredited local guide when visiting most archaeological sites – and trust me, you’ll be glad you had one. We learned SO much about the Moai, Rapa Nui’s history, and local life that made our trip absolutely unforgettable.
I found our guide, Christopher, through the national park website and he was able to bring the island’s stories to life in a way we would have never ever been able to get on our own.
Most places open at 9:00 AM, except for Tongariki, which allows early access for sunrise tours.
Note: Don’t forget to purchase your park pass ahead of time online. You need to print it and bring it with you. Rangers will check your ID and stamp your park pass at each site because you can only visit each place once per pass. Each person needs their own park pass.
Moai at Anakena Beach
Sites That Require a Guide (Limited to one visit per park pass)
This is a list of sites you can only visit with a guide – and only once per ticket. If you want ot visit them again, you need to buy another park pass.
- Rano Raraku: The iconic quarry where the Moai were carved before being transported to their final position. It’s a major highlight of the island where you can walk among giant, partially buried and unfinished Moai.
. - Ahu Tongariki: The famous platform featuring 15 restored Moai. Most places open at 9:00 AM, except for Tongariki, which opens early for sunrise tours. You can also technically see this spot from the road if you have your own car, but you need a guide to enter and see them up close.
. - Orongo: A highly significant, ceremonial village perched on a cliffside. It’s tied to the Birdman Competition and has a deep history, small museum, and breathtaking ocean views.
. - Puna Pau: The quarry where the Moai’s topknots (pukao) were made. It’s a quiet, scenic spot to learn about how the topknots were carved, and the theories about how they were transported from the hill all the way to their final spot atop the Moai’s head.
. - Ahu Vinapu: A platform constructed in a way that resembles Incan masonry found throughout Peru. This site highlights unique construction techniques, theories, and cultural connections.
If you end up stuck without a guide, try waiting at the gate of a site to join an incoming group or see if you can contract a ranger to show you around. It’s definitely not guaranteed, but we saw it work for a few people.
Rano Raraku Moai Quarry
Sites You Can Visit Without a Guide
- Ahu Tahai: A favorite for sunsets with several Moai, including one with restored eyes and a topknot. It’s open all the time, which is perfect for photos at different times of day, including sunset and sunrise.
. - Anakena Beach: A beautiful beach on the north side of the island with pink sand, turquoise waters, and nearby Moai. You can spend a whole day here relaxing, swimming, taking photos, and grabbing lunch at the restaurants. No guide required during the day, but this site closes after dark.
. - Ahu Huri A Urenga: A lesser-known Moai with four hands, tied to Rapa Nui’s astronomy.
. - Rano Kau Crater: A massive, highly spiritual volcanic crater with panoramic views of the island. A great spot for stargazing without a guide!
. - Moai Facing the Ocean: The only Moai looking toward the sea, representing Rapa Nui’s seven clans. A symbolic and unique spot.
Ovahe Beach, Rapa Nui
When is the best time to visit Rapa Nui?
The best time to visit Rapa Nui depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:
- Best Weather (December to March): Warm summer temps (70–80°F/20–27°C) make this season perfect for beaches and exploring, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time, so hotels, tours, and rental cars sell out quick! Visit in February to catch the Tapati Rapa Nui Festival, which is a two-week celebration of local culture with dances, music, and competitions.
. - Fewer Crowds (April to June & September to November): This is shoulder season so you can expect mild weather (60–70°F/15–21°C), fewer tourists, and lower prices.
. - Winter (July to August): Expect cooler temps (50–60°F/10–15°C) and more rain thanks to Antarctic winds.
Tip: The weather here is actually completely unpredictable. Locals say to completely ignore weather forecasts and instead watch the wind direction (especially when you’re trying to plan for sunrise tours or stargazing).
The north side of the island, where most of the Moai are, usually has completely different weather than Hanga Roa, just 30 minutes away. So even though it might be raining in town, it could be completely clear on the other side of the island, and vice versa.
\Ahu Tongariki
Where to stay on Easter Island
There are many different options for places to stay on Easter Island, including cozy lodges, budget-friendly hotels, unique stays, and even camping.
You can find budget friendly hotels for less than $100/night, all the way up to all inclusive luxury resorts like Explora en Rapa Nui (if you wanna treat yourself).
Most hotels and Airbnbs on Easter Island are in Hanga Roa, which is convenient since it’s walking distance to everything you’d need if you don’t have a car.
If you rent a car and prefer to get off the beaten path, you can also stay at one of the eco lodges or resorts outside of town. We stayed at Maunga Roa Eco Lodge, which was only about 15 minutes outside of town, but felt like worlds away.
View all hotels on Easter Island here
Here are my top picks:
Hotel Ohana Rapa Nui ($$$): New, upscale hotel with spacious rooms and a pool, right in the heart of Hanga Roa.
Maunga Roa Eco Lodge ($$): Small eco-friendly cabins with gorgeous views of the ocean. Located about 15 minutes outside of town. You can arrange car rentals directly with the host!
Hotel Maea Hare Repa ($): A budget-friendly gem in Hanga Roa. We stayed here after a last-minute flight cancellation and the family running it made us feel so welcome. Plus it’s near Mama Nui, one of the best restaurants in town!
Have a favorite place to stay in Rapa Nui? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear your experience!
Easter Island Costs: Is it Expensive to Visit Rapa Nui?
Yes, Easter Island can be expensive, but it largely depends on your travel style and how you plan your trip. Personally, I found prices to be pretty comparable to the United States.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you costs you can expect:
- Flights from Santiago to Easter Island range from $200 to $800 round trip, depending on when you book. Set up Google Flights alerts to get the best prices. Setting up Google Flights alerts can help snag a deal
. - Hotels range from budget-friendly guesthouses ($50–$100 per night) to mid-range hotels ($150–$300 per night). Luxury stays cost $500+ per night
. - Food: Everything on Easter Island is shipped from mainland Chile, so prices are higher than you might expect. Meals at restaurants cost about $25–50 per person. Groceries are pricey too – we spent $22 USD on a pineapple, half a dozen eggs, pasta, and instant coffee. On the plus side, wine and beer are super affordable!
. - Tour guides are required for sites in the national park and they typically cost $100–$200 per day per person, depending on the itinerary and group size.
. - Renting a car costs about $75–$100 per day, plus gas.
. - The Rapa Nui National Park pass is $80 USD per person, required for most archaeological sites in addition to the tour guide.
Practical Tips for Visiting Rapa Nui
1. Bring Chilean pesos from the mainland – Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and bigger restaurants, but you’ll need cash for tours, tips, and small purchases. Some places take USD, but only if the bills are perfectly crisp.
There are a few ATMs in Hanga Roa, but they have high fees and several of them were out of cash when we were there, so they can be unreliable. Banco Estado has 24-hour ATMs, but they only allow withdrawals of up to $100 at a time, so plan for multiple transactions (and fees).
2. Cell service is unreliable – Download offline Google Maps before you get there because cell service is poor and public Wi-Fi is slow. Confirm that your accommodation has reliable Wi-Fi ahead of time, because it truly can make or break your trip.
3. Learn some Rapa Nui phrases – While the main languages on Rapa Nui is Spanish and Rapa Nui, most people working in tourism speak a bit of English. However, learning a few phrases can go a long way. Here are two you should know and will hear often:
- Hello/Goodbye: Iorana
- Thank you: Māuru-uru
4. Don’t touch the Moai! The Moai statues are heavily protected and you can be fined up to $17,000 USD for touching them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Easter Island
Here are some frequently asked questions about safety, how long to stay, and how much it costs to visit Easter Island:
How many days are needed for Easter Island?
We spent 4 days and 3 nights on Easter Island, which felt like the perfect amount of time to soak in the island’s magic without feeling rushed.
Here’s how we made the most of our trip:
- Day 1: We took the earliest flight from Santiago with LATAM Airlines, landing on Rapa Nui around 11:00 AM. This gave us a half day to start exploring right away.
. - Day 2 and 3: We booked 2 full days of guided tours to see the island’s highlights, including a sunrise tour at Ahu Tongariki.
. - Day 4: On our final day, we enjoyed a relaxed morning at Anakena Beach and did some souvenir shopping before catching a late afternoon flight back to Santiago.
This itinerary gave us a great mix of guided exploration and downtime to enjoy the island at our own pace. However, I would add an extra day if you want to add any additional hiking or tours like snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback rides, etc.
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Easter Island?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Easter Island. However, there are certain entry requirements you must meet. To enter Easter Island, U.S. citizens need a valid passport that is valid for at least 90 days after your return date, proof of a round trip return ticket scheduled within 30 days, proof of a reservation at a certified accommodation registered with SERNATUR (the Chilean National Tourism Service), and your completed Single Entry Form (FUI) to present to the Police (PDI).
Is Easter Island safe?
Easter Island is incredibly safe and the locals are some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met. Crime is very rare, and locals don’t even bother locking their doors or cars. Walking or driving at night is totally fine, as long as you drive very slow and watch out for wandering horses and cows.
Honestly, the biggest “threat” here are the giant cockroaches that come out at night. While they’re gross, they’re totally harmless.
Is Easter Island Worth Visiting?
Yes, Easter Island is absolutely worth visiting! The iconic Moai statues, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history make it a unique, bucket list destination for so many people (myself included!). I’ve done a lot of traveling and Easter Island tops my list as one of the most amazing, magical places I’ve ever been.
Final Thoughts
Rapa Nui isn’t just a place – it’s a spiritual experience. From the awe-inspiring Moai to the kindness of the locals, this island will capture your heart and stay with you longggg after you leave. Pack your sunscreen, go with the flow, and soak up everything this magical island has to offer.
I hope this guide helped you plan your adventure and got you ready to fall in love with Rapa Nui.
Iorana!
Did you find this guide on how to visit Easter Island helpful? Let me know in the comments!
Pins for your Pinterest
More South American Adventures
Easter Island: 27 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Easter Island (+ Photography Tips)
Ecuador: Ecuador 2-Week Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Ecuador: 19 Important Things to Know About Ecuador Before You Go
WANT TO SAVE MONEY TRAVELING?
Check out my list of reliable budget-friendly travel resources that are guaranteed to save you the most money, without compromising your experience.