9 Reasons To Visit Easter Island Now!

1. The Moai

These monolithic statues are styled in forms found throughout Polynesia. They are carved in relatively flat planes with an average height of 13 feet high with width at the base around 5 ft 3 in across. These massive statues typically weigh around 13.8 tons each.

2. Sunrise

Drive to Tongariki, make sure you get there early and prepare for a mind-blowing sunrise. I’m not a morning person but this is one you won’t want to sleep in for. As the sun rises behind the Moai, the sky changes all sorts of incredible colors.

3. Sunset

For sunset, don’t worry about going to the other side of the island, simply walk to Tahai and join the groups on the grass overlooking the Moai. While sunrise is still my favorite, you won’t be disappointed as the sun says goodbye behind the Maoi.

4. The History

What’s Easter Island’s story? I’ll let NPR give you their take.

5. Remote

Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. The nearest inhabited land (50 residents) is Pitcairn Island 2,075 kilometers (1,289 mi) away, and the nearest continental point lies in central Chile, 3,512 kilometers (2,182 mi) away. Let’s just say when you are flying 6 hours into the middle of the ocean you definitely feel as if you are in the middle of nowhere.

6. Avoid the crowds

Although Easter Island is one of the most remote locations on Earth, as with all types of tourism, the crowds are starting to pick up. With more visitors to the island, inevitably there is more deterioration, which is why we believe you should plan to make a trip to this unique island sooner than later.

7. Climate

Officially classified as a tropical rain forest climate, the lowest temperatures recorded are in July and August, around 64° F, and the highest in February at 82° F. The rainiest month is May with an average of 6 inches of rain throughout the month.

8. The drive around the island

There are a number of rental car agencies on the island and driving yourself is the best way to get around the island in our opinions. Renting one for a day or two will cost you upwards of $75 a day. Car rentals are somewhat expensive, but highly recommended if you aren’t taking a tour. You will want a 4×4 vs. a car to help you get through the unpaved roads that aren’t great.

9.. Beautiful beaches

Anakena beach (pictured below) is one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. Walking out through the palm trees onto the beach, it truly felt as if I was walking into a postcard. The white sand, the moai standing tall, the clear blue water – I couldn’t have imagined it better.

 

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Easter Island?