Rapa Nui (which means Big Island), is one of the world´s most remote islands, and still evokes the myths and legends of the past when there were undiscovered lands to be explored. The highlight of the island is its famous moai statues, carved into the volcanic rock found on the island. Themonoliths of more than twelve feet and weighing more than 14 tons, seem to watch over the whole island. More than 400 statues remain unfinished in the main quarry.

The Rapa Nui island is now a natural preserve and recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Located 2500 miles (4000 km) from Tahiti to the west and 2300 miles (3700 km) from the Chilean coast to the east, it has just over 3,300 inhabitants, a people with strong sense of cultural identity that dare to confront the powerfully centralized Chilean government.

Two flights leave each week to Easter Island from Santiago or Papeete (Tahiti) on Lan Chile Airlines. The idea is to spend three or four days there to have enough time to visit all the archaeological sites offered by the island. The island is a peaceful sanctuary of tradition, nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, and may inspire one to enjoy it in the same leisurely way.

Of special Interest! Every year, for two weeks (usually the first two weeks of February), the island celebrates Tapati Rapa Nui, an ancient traditional festival during which the people elect the most beautiful woman on the island. However, this is not the Miss Universe paegant. The island is divided into two camps, each side competing for points awarded to their candidate. For example, the Haka Pei: lying on banana trunks tied together, participants descend the slope of the volcano Maunga pu'i with top speeds of up to 50 mp/h (85 km/h)!

More and more visitors are coming to the festival every year, which takes place in the middle of the southern hemisphere summer. Therefore many Chilean and Argentine visitors enjoy the opportunity to come to the island as well. So remember to make all your reservations well in advance.

Rano Raraku This site is known as the Moai factory. More than 400 statues can be admired in the different stages of their construction and transportation. This activity appears to have been abandoned overnight without explanation.

Ahu Moai Around the island are nearly 300 platforms or altars called Ahu, the majority have been damaged by man, animals and natural elements. Among them are the remarkable sites Vaihu, Akahanga, Heki'i, Raai Vinapu, and Te Peu where it is possible to observe statues, remains of human settlements (houses, caves, cooking pits, and poultry markets) and more sites of cultural and ceremonial significance.
 
Ahu Tongariki This is a site recently restored by archaeologist Claudio Cristino, where it is possible to see 15 foot (5 meters) statues in different stages of construction. Located in a setting of impressive natural beauty, this site, near Rano Raraku, is a must see part of the island.
 
Complexe Tahai-Ko te Riku This archaeological site is located in the village of Hanga Roa. As it is a complete restoration project, you can see the stone houses, poultry market, ceremonial sites, three platforms with moai (Tahai, Vai Uri, Ko Te Riku), and a pier built entirely of stone.
 
Ahu Huri A Urenga This is a restoration site located near Hanga Roa, with its unique statue facing the sunset, the day of the winter solstice. This time of year marks not only the astronomical beginning of winter season (Tonga), but represents more than one of the restrictions on fishing and other activities in the island.
 
Ahu Akivi This archaeological complex was restored in 1960 by archaeologist William Mulloy. Seven statues can be seen with their gaze directed towards the sunset and the ocean in the background. Tradition says that these seven moai represent the seven explorers who first arrived on Rapa Nui, sent by King Hotu Matu'a.
 
Ahu Huri A Urenga This site is located on the beach of Anakena and is the first restoration made during the Norwegian expedition of 1956. There is an statue which is anthropomorphic in appearance and is seemingly more ancient than that of neighboring platforms.
 
Ahu Nau Nau Finally, there is a restoration site which was supervised by the local archaeologist Sergio Rapu, in the late 70s. Located on Anakena beach, seven well-preserved statues have unique details such as tattoos and remains of clothing. During the restoration, one eye was found, which is now exhibited at the island´s museum.

Left : Painting by Gerard Gallen (gerardgallen.com) inspired by his trip with Korke to Easter Island. (gerardgallen.com)