Easter Island, a remote volcanic island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, is a hiker's dream with its dramatic landscapes and ancient mysteries. Known for its nearly thousand moai statues, Easter Island offers a unique combination of archaeological wonders and natural beauty. The island's compact size, 11 km wide and 23 km long, makes its diverse attractions easily accessible on foot from the main settlement, Hanga Roa. With a moderate climate and sparse vegetation, the island's terrain is ideal for cross-country hiking, free from the usual barriers of fences and private property.
Before embarking on your hiking adventure, a visit to the superb archaeological museum next to Ahu Tahai on the north side of Hanga Roa is essential. The museum not only showcases fascinating exhibits but also provides maps to help plan your journey. An online map is available at Map South Pacific.
On your first morning, consider climbing Rano Kau, Easter Island's most spectacular volcano. Orongo, a significant archaeological site, perches on the crater's rim. Instead of taking the main road, find the unmarked shortcut trail just past the forestry station south of town. The six km trek to Orongo takes less than two hours, but it's worth spending a day there with a picnic lunch. For those daunted by the 316-meter ascent, a taxi to the summit costs around US$6, and you can walk back later. The descent into the colorful crater is easy, but circling the crater rim is advised only for experienced hikers due to the sheer 250-meter cliffs.
For a coastal adventure, take an early taxi to Anakena Beach, where some moai statues have been restored. After enjoying the beach, trek back to Hanga Roa around the island's road-free northwest corner. This route offers encounters with numerous toppled statues and the island's small brown hawks. The return trip takes about five to six hours, so bring sufficient food, water, and sunscreen. This coastal walk is arguably the finest in the South Pacific.
Another excellent hike is along the south coast, where you'll start at Rano Raraku, the quarry where all the island's statues originated. With 397 statues scattered around, it's a sight to behold. Arrive before 9 am to avoid the crowds. As tour buses arrive, head to Ahu Tongariki, where 15 massive statues stand. From there, it's a 20 km walk back to Hanga Roa, with the option to hitchhike if needed.
A 13-km walk from the museum to Ahu Tepeu along the west coast is also rewarding. Keep an eye out for banana trees, which often mark the entrance to caves. Inland lies Ahu Akivi, with seven restored statues. An interior farm road leads back to town, but careful map study is advised to avoid detours.
A shorter hike to Puna Pau, a smaller crater, offers a panoramic view of Hanga Roa and can be completed in half a day. Another route circles the 3,353-meter airport runway, leading to Ahu Vinapu, known for its monolithic stonework reminiscent of constructions in Peru.
Easter Island is not just for hikers; mountain bikes are available for rent at US$10 a day. The island also offers opportunities for surfing and scuba diving. To fully experience Easter Island's main sights, a minimum of five days is recommended, though two weeks allows for a more thorough exploration.
Easter Island's variety of activities and sights will surprise and delight visitors. Whether you're trekking along its rugged coastlines, exploring its volcanic craters, or delving into its rich history, the island promises unforgettable memories and a truly unique hiking experience.
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