A Journey to Easter Island
The movie 180° South follows a Californian adventurer who sets sail for Patagonia, encounters ship trouble, and ends up stranded on Easter Island. Strangely enough, that movie sparked my fascination with Easter Island. After watching it, I knew I had to see this remote island for myself.
During my week there, I explored its stunning coastline, walked among the mysterious Moai statues, and marveled at how ancient inhabitants, armed only with stone tools, could create these colossal structures. Horses roamed freely across the island’s lush green grasses and rugged volcanic coastlines, adding to its wild beauty. Most of my days were spent motorbiking around, getting to know locals, and reflecting on the ingenuity of the original settlers.
The Island’s History
Easter Island’s first inhabitants arrived around 300–400 CE. The island is most famous for its 900 Moai statues, scattered across its landscape. Legend has it the island was once covered in trees, but as resources dwindled, locals built the statues to appease their gods, eventually leading to conflicts and toppled Moai. While much of this history remains speculative, the statues stand as a fascinating reminder of the island’s mysterious past.
Planning a Budget-Friendly Visit
Easter Island is incredibly remote—3,700 kilometers from Santiago, Chile—and visiting can be expensive. Its isolation means most goods are shipped in, driving up costs. Despite this, with some careful planning, you can visit without breaking the bank.
Getting to Easter Island
Flights are the most practical way to reach the island. LATAM Airlines is the only carrier, and round-trip tickets typically cost $600–900 USD, though last-minute prices can soar.
Here are a few tips to save on flights:
- Book early and travel off-season: Plan ahead to find tickets closer to $500–600 USD.
- Subscribe to LATAM’s newsletter: This can give you access to sales and discounts.
- Check business class prices: Surprisingly, they’re sometimes cheaper than economy if you time it right.
- Use flight comparison tools: Websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner help identify the best deals.
- Include Easter Island in an RTW ticket: If you’re on a multi-stop journey, adding Easter Island might come at little to no extra cost.
Sailing to Easter Island is another option, but it’s costly and limited to private boats, cargo ships, or cruises. Flying remains the most affordable and convenient choice for most travelers.
Where to Stay on Easter Island
Budget accommodation options include hostels, camping, and rental apartments:
- Hostels: Dorm beds cost $20–30 USD per night, but space is limited, so book early.
- Camping: Campgrounds charge $7–10 USD per night. Some include rental gear, so you don’t need to bring your own. Wild camping is only allowed with a local guide.
- Apartment rentals: Airbnb offers stays for $35–100 USD per night. Splitting with other travelers can save money.
For free accommodation, consider Couchsurfing, though active hosts are few, and arrangements require planning ahead.
Food and Drink
Eating out is pricey because most food is imported. To save money, bring food from the mainland and cook if your accommodation has a kitchen. This strategy kept my expenses low, allowing me to prepare meals during my visit.
Getting Around the Island
Transportation options include:
- Taxis: Short rides in Hanga Roa cost $5 USD, but longer trips get expensive.
- Bikes: Rent one for $15–20 USD per day to explore nearby areas.
- Motorbikes or scooters: These cost $25–60 USD per day and provide flexibility to explore the island on your schedule.
- ATVs or cars: Larger vehicles are available for $30–65 USD per day if you need more space.
Driving yourself is the best way to see the island without paying for expensive tours.
Activities and Sights
The island’s main attractions lie within Rapa Nui National Park, where the entrance fee for foreigners is around $80 USD. This grants access to the iconic Moai statues and other archaeological sites.
Other activities include:
- Scuba diving: See the underwater Moai (a movie prop, but still cool!) for $50 USD per dive.
- Surfing: Rent a board for $25 USD per day.
- Exploring: Simply drive around and let the day unfold—Easter Island’s landscapes are full of surprises.
A Memorable Adventure
Visiting Easter Island was a dream come true. Its rich history, enigmatic statues, and remote beauty made it one of the most unique places I’ve ever explored. With thoughtful planning—like booking affordable flights, bringing food, and arranging budget-friendly accommodation—you can experience this magical destination without overspending.
If you’re planning a trip to Chile, don’t miss the chance to visit this incredible island. It’s an adventure worth every penny!
