Easter Island has been our bucket list for an awfully long time. Its been someplace so remote and unique that it had always seemed just out of reach. It truly is a destination unto itself as there is literally nothing any where close to it from a physical and fascination perspective.
Before we left, we had anticipated seeing a lot of moai statues, experiencing some Polynesian culture and generally enjoying a sub tropical island for seven days. In the end, we got all of what we had anticipated and more.
First, the island is very small and there is only one community, Hanga Roa, on its south end near the airport. We stayed on the ocean in the yellow house with the pink roof in the background for just over $100 USD per night. We had the second floor to ourselves with a kitchenette and prepared all of our breakfasts, lunches and half our suppers ourselves.
Second, we stated our visit at an opportune time as the islanders were celebrating Mahana o te Re’o Rapa Nui (The Day of our Language) the day after we arrived. We got to take in some music, dance, food and, language of course, for free.
Third, reason we went was to see the massive moai. There are hundreds of moai that are literally scattered across every corner of the island. They are the star attraction and really the reason many people go. The bad news is that almost 95% of the moai remain in ruin and the 53 standing moai have been subject to varying degrees of restoration. Some of the most interesting moai are the broken ones and others half finished in the quarry. Those moai will get their own post. Below is a sampling of some of our best standing moai photos.
This statue struck me as being very soulful, if you can infer that in a statue.
The fourth reason we went was to experience a Polynesian island. The island itself has some truly beautiful landscapes. The islands on the west side of the island were the focal point of the Birdman Cult.
The adjacent Rano Kau crater is simply amazing.
Easter Island has two sandy beaches. The photo below is the path to the small. hidden beach of Ovahe.
The coastline views are both rugged and beautiful.
You've just got to see it for yourself.
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