Easter Island aka Rapa Nui

If you’ve ever looked at a photo of the Moai statues and thought, “I need to see that in person,” you’re not alone. But here’s the thing about Easter Island (aka Rapa Nui)—getting there and exploring it isn’t as straightforward as booking a flight and showing up with a camera.

This tiny island in the middle of the Pacific feels like a secret—because in many ways, it still is. It’s beautiful, wild, and unforgettable, but also has some very specific rules and quirks that most travel blogs gloss over.

I want you to experience Rapa Nui the right way—without the headaches I’ve seen others run into. So here’s my no-fluff guide on how to visit Easter Island, with some personal tips I wish I had when I planned my first trip.

The Flights Are Longer Than You Think

Most travelers don’t realize just how far Easter Island really is. From Santiago, Chile, it’s a 5-hour flight over open ocean. There are no shortcuts, no island-hopping routes, and flights are limited to a few per week—so flexibility is key. This isn’t a quick detour you tack onto a South American itinerary last minute.

Pro Tip: Book flights early (LATAM is your only option) and don’t plan tight connections. Flight delays are part of island life, and Rapa Nui runs on its own time zone—mentally and literally.

Easter Island Do's & Don'ts

DO: Buy Your Rapa Nui National Park Pass in Advance
Nearly every major archaeological site—(think Moai statues, volcano craters, ancient petroglyphs) requires a Rapa Nui parks pass ($85 USD) You’ll need this pass to enter, and you can’t buy it on the spot at the sites. Purchase online ahead of time or grab one at the Mataveri Airport when you arrive. It should also be known that you can only visit certain sites once per pass.

DO: Plan for 4–5 Days or more
There’s a lot more to Rapa Nui than a day tour can handle. I always tell clients—four days is the bare minimum. Rapa Nui is small, but sites are spread out, and access to some spots rotates by the day. Plus, you’ll want time to settle into the island’s slower pace. Rushing this place is a rookie mistake.

DO: Fill Out the FUI Form Before Flying
Chile takes the island’s preservation seriously. You’ll need to complete the FUI Form before your flight. You will need to include a valid booking for an accommodation Registered at the National Tourism Service (SERNATUR). It’s quick, but don’t skip it or you won’t be allowed to board.

DON’T: Assume You Can DIY All the Sites
Here’s where things get tricky. Many archeological sites now require a licensed local guide to enter. Renting a car is possible, but it doesn’t give you free rein access. If you're someone who usually likes to roam free, this is important to know upfront. Always check the site rules, or better yet, join a small-group tour that includes a guide. Check out this tour with one of our recommended partners!

DO: Book Flights Early & Build in Flex Time
LATAM is the main airline flying to and from Rapa Nui, and flights are limited to just a few per week. They also fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Flight delays aren’t uncommon either, so avoid tight connections if you’re coming from or heading back to mainland Chile.

DON’T: Expect Great WiFi
WiFi is spotty at best across much of Easter Island even with SIM cards. Hotels in Hanga Roa might have decent coverage, but once you're out exploring, consider yourself blissfully offline. Download maps and all documents beforehand and let family/friends know you’ll be off grid walking among Legends.

DO: Bring Plenty of Chilean Pesos
There are ATMs in Hanga Roa, but they’re not always reliable and can run out of cash. Many small restaurants or shops don’t accept cards. Plan ahead with local currency—it’ll save you time and hassle.

DON’T: Touch or Climb on the Moai (Seriously)
This sounds obvious, but every year people do it. It’s illegal and deeply disrespectful to the Rapa Nui people. Stick to designated paths and take your photos with a healthy dose of respect and distance. Also, don't think you can take that small piece of Obsidian, or any other rocks, with you. They will check your bags at the airport for rocks (yes, really).

DON’T: Bring your drone
It is not permitted to fly drones anywhere on Easter Island. They have rangers that patrol all sites, and will chase you down on horseback.

Here are three unforgettable experiences I've personally vetted and highly recommend.

Top-rated tours on Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

Stargazing Tour with a Local Astronomer
Due to low light pollution, Rapa Nui offers some of the darkest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a guided stargazing experience and learn about Polynesian navigation, constellations, and how ancient islanders used the stars for survival.

This top-rated stargazing tour is one of the highest-reviewed experiences on the island! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Milky Way through a professional-grade telescope while relaxing by a cozy campfire. With a comfortable setup, plus hot chocolate and tea included, it’s the perfect way to experience the night sky!

Sunset Horseback Ride to Terevaka Volcanic Crater
Saddle up for a peaceful ride through eucalyptus forests, open grasslands, ending at the highest point on the island: the extinct Terevaka volcano. Arrive just in time to watch the sun dip into the Pacific.

This horse back riding tour is truly unforgettable! The guides are amazing, the views of the island are absolutely stunning, and every moment feels like an movie. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, make sure your camera is ready—these are the kinds of memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

Scuba Diving in Crystal-Clear Waters
Rapa Nui is home to some of the clearest saltwater diving in the world. Visibility can hit 60+ meters. You’ll find coral, volcanic rock formations, and maybe even submerged Moai (yes, really). If you’re not certified, some shops offer intro dives or snorkeling alternatives.

Discover incredible underwater adventures with this top-rated dive school, offering beginner to advanced diving classes and exciting fun dives. Learn from friendly local instructors and use well-maintained, clean equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience. Explore the famous Moai dive or, for advanced divers, venture to a nearby island to witness stunning underwater topography in crystal-clear waters