Easter Islands Travel
Easter Islands Overview
Easter Island is one of the most isolated islands on Earth. Officially a territory of Chile, it lies far off in the Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway to Tahiti. It is most famous for its enigmatic giant stone busts, built centuries ago, which reflect the history of the dramatic rise and fall of the most isolated Polynesian culture. The Easter Island enjoys a subtropical climate, moderated by the southerly location. The best time to visit the island are the driest months of August to December.
Easter Islands Main Attractions
The biggest tourist attractions on Easter Island are, of course, the Moai. The Moai are archaeological features and should be treated with care as they are far more fragile than they seem. Often Moai will be placed upon ceremonial platforms and burials called Ahu. Do not walk on the Ahu as it is an extremely disrespectful gesture. Even if you see others walking on the Ahu do not do so yourself. All of the sites, which can be visited for free, are mostly found along the coastline of the island.
Easter Island features two white sand beaches. Anakena, on the north side of the island, is an excellent shore break bodysurfing location with a bit of north swell. The second beach is a gem so hidden; it doesn't even have a name. This beautiful and desolate beach is much larger than that at Anakena and is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs. Note of caution: the path leading down to the beach is somewhat treacherous and unstable and best reached by foot - driving off-road on most of the island is illegal anyway.
Easter Islands Activities
Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular in Easter Island. The well known site for this recreation is near the islets of Motu Nui and Motu Iti. You can also watch out for the total solar eclipse coming this July 11, 2010 or be fascinated by the often overlooked aspect of the Easter Island, the extensive cave systems. Even the official caves of the Easter can be quite interesting; exploring the unofficial caves can be the real adventure. While the openings of these caves are small and hidden, it opens into large and inhabiting deep and extensive cave systems.
Easter Islands Accommodation & Dining
Easter Island hotels greet their guest when they arrive. The spirit of its people that transforms your stay in the hotels in Easter Island is something unforgettable. Whether you are facing the Pacific Ocean or looking to the Moais, Easter Island hotels are perfect for those who want to discover the island secrets by trekking routes and horseback riding guided by natives of the island. They have all sorts of food, fish being the best one. The surrounding is very nice, it is located right at the port, and the building is built around a small lagoon.
Easter Islands Shopping & Nightlife
While in Easter Island, you may want to go to a traditional culture show and dinner. There are concerts in some nights. Most of it is offered by Te Ra’ai. Aside from shell necklaces and feather ornaments, the main things to buy here are woodcarvings, dance paddles, miniature stone moai, small pieces of tapa, and imitation rongorongo tablets.
Getting To & Around the Easter Islands
Due to its extreme geographic isolation, many people assume that only the highly intrepid traveler can get to Easter Island. In fact, the island is accessible by regular commercial air service.
