Postcard from Easter Island

Indagare member Cheryl Faillace recently returned from Santiago and Easter Island, where she stayed at Singular Santiago and Explora Rapa Nui. Here are her tips on making the most of a stay on Easter Island.

• At Explora on Easter Island, the food was good and not heavy at all. The property’s store is also great and sells name-brand trekking gear, which is nice since the weather changes dramatically on the island. On our first day, it was rainy and cold in the morning but, come afternoon, we were wearing shorts.
• In order to get the best photos, visit the 15 Moai statues of Tongariki in the afternoon when the sun is shining on them.
• Be sure to visit the quarry of Ronu Raraku in the morning when it is not as crowded.
• Explora Rapa Nui can organize a special lunch on the rocks by the ocean, which is amazing and should not be missed.
• The museum in town (Father Sebastián Englert Museum) has odd hours of operation, so be sure to check ahead of time.
• Snorkeling to the islet is not worth it. There are not many fish in the area and the property’s boat is not equipped with towels, etc.
• Note that the full day excursions are not offered every day so be sure to check ahead of time in order to avoid missing any great activities.
• The cliffs and caves excursion was great. I highly recommend it.
• Internet works very well in the main areas of the hotel and my cell phone worked too.