Few places evoke mystery like Easter Island—known to its original inhabitants as Rapa Nui. The iconic moai heads punctuating the Chilean island’s sweeping landscape of lava-sculpted terrain have stood for centuries, silently watching over the island. Still now, no one knows why the Polynesians crossed vast oceans in small wooden outrigger canoes to reach this remote Pacific island. The fact that they did, and built scores of towering heads from solid stone which exceed 13 feet in height and 10 tons in weight, adds to Rapa Nui’s allure.

Besides these cultural wonders, there are volcanoes to climb, caves and lava tubes to explore, and secluded snorkeling spots and beaches to enjoy. A pristine island overflowing with intrigue, Rapa Nui is one of the few places on earth that can truly call itself one-of-a-kind. Visit as a standalone trip or as an easy add-on to a larger Chilean adventure in Northern Patagonia, Torres del Paine, the Atacama Desert, or Chilean wine country.

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Easter Island and The Atacama Explored

From remote island to moonlike desertscape, combine two of Chile’s most extreme opposites with this fascinating itinerary. After a night in Santiago, fly to Rapa Nui for three days of mystery and culture. Learn about the significance of the 900+ giant moai heads in between beach days, hikes, and scuba dives. Next, transfer to Atacama for some of the best stargazing on earth and otherworldly hiking in the Moon Valley. Finish your stay with a visit to Valparaíso, a bohemian coastal town famed for its colorful houses and art scene.

Image courtesy of Explora Rapa Nui

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Peru and Chile: From Machu Picchu to Easter Island

Explore ancient wonders and natural beauty with a trip to Chile and Peru. Begin your adventure in Lima, a city of world-class gastronomy, before heading to the Sacred Valley for breathtaking views and ancient Inca history. Next, you’ll visit the iconic Machu Picchu, an Incan citadel perched on a mountaintop. After a few days in the beautiful, lively town of Cusco, fly to cosmopolitan Santiago in Chile. End your adventure in Rapa Nui, a remote Pacific island known for its giant stone moai heads.

Image courtesy of Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

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Where to stay: Explora Rapa Nui

​​Explora knows a thing or two about combining refined luxury with spectacular remote locations—and Explora Rapa Nui is a testament to that. With its futuristic architecture, excellent local food, and exemplary service, this special property is the perfect place to base yourself on the island. The property also received South America’s first LEED certification—the coveted mark of sustainable design. When you’re not enjoying the lodge, explore the island with one of Explora’s exceptional local guides on one of the 30+ different guided hikes, bike rides, snorkeling, and scuba diving explorations.

Image courtesy of Explora Rapa Nui

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