Easter Island Extension

Easter Island is one of the few places on Earth that can rightly be described as unique. Set 3,700 kilometres off the coast of mainland Chile, this isolated island has developed its own culture and identity, which you can experience for yourself on this holiday.

You have two full days filled with specially selected excursions and activities, led by local guides who know the places, people and history of the island intimately. You'll see fine examples of moai, the huge carved stone figures symbolic of island culture, some lying where they fell when knocked down during inter-clan warfare in the 18th and 19th centuries and others restored to their full standing glory. The aura of these moai is undeniable, and they exert a fascination and wonder in all who see them.

There's more to Easter Island than the moai. From your guide you learn about the history and culture of the Rapa Nui people. Originally from Polynesia they arrived on the island around AD300, with their distinctive beliefs, religion, rites, rituals and folklore. Aspects of these are displayed in the dances, music, ceremonies and festivals of present-day Rapa Nui, the Polynesian name for Easter Island. During the holiday you visit an erstwhile village perched on the rim of a volcano, site of the famous Bird Man competition, see quarries where stone was mined, gaze on a vast crater lake and even have time for a swim at one of the island's best beaches.

It should be noted that excursions are offered subject to weather conditions and the precise itinerary may vary from that shown in the day-by-day description.

You have a choice of hotels, both located close to the airport and to Hanga Roa, the capital. Altiplanico has 16 self-contained bungalows painted with eye-catching Rapa Nui designs and set in attractive gardens. Facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and restaurant. Hare Noi Rapa Nui has 9 guest rooms grouped in 3 hares, or dwellings, each with a shared living room and terrace, echoing the layout of traditional Rapa Nui houses. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, terrace, spa and outdoor pool.

This holiday has been designed as an extension to add to any of our mainland Chile itineraries, making an already special holiday extra-special. And, as this is a tailor-made trip you can extend you stay on Easter Island to give yourself even more time to explore and experience its fascinating history, culture and scenery.