Explore Easter Island from a Luxury Lodge - 6 Days - $4,815
Trip Summary and Itinerary Map
Day 1: Fly to Easter Island (5.5 hours); Explore Your Surroundings
Day 2: Anakena Beach by Bike; Ara Moai Trail on Foot
Day 3: Orongo Crater (The Birdman Competition)
Day 4: Puakatiki Summit Hike; Snorkelling
Day 5: Unveiling the Miru Caves; Visit Ana Te Pahu
Day 6: Free Morning; Fly to Santiago (4.5 hours)
Landmarks visited on Explore Easter Island from a Luxury Lodge
Operator's Itinerary
There are over 30 guided hikes, bike rides, snorkelling and diving explorations to immerse yourself in during your time on Rapa Nui so it can be tailored to what you want. This itinerary is an example of how you could spend your time on this all-inclusive island experience.
Day 1: Arrive at Easter Island; Explore Your Surroundings
Depart from Santiago Airport for your 5.5 hour flight to Easter Island Airport (flights not included). Upon landing, you'll be met at the airport by your friendly local guide and taken to Hanga Roa, the main town and capital of Easter Island, where almost 90% of Easter Island's inhabitants (the Rapa Nui) live.
This afternoon you’ll meet with your guide, and fellow guests who will be introduced to the array of exciting excursions that are on offer from the hotel’s specialist exploration team. They'll talk you through all the options and ensure that the coming days’ experiences provide you with the greatest travel experience possible - there really is something for everyone. Also, the camaraderie with your fellow travellers will begin, as you may well be sharing your small group excursions with some of the other guests.
After a delicious dinner, you'll have the evening to orient yourself to your new Pacific Ocean island base and get ready for the adventures of the coming days. Relax in the warm climate with some of the clearest skies found anywhere on the planet and keep your eyes peeled for the green flash which can sometimes be seen shortly after sunset.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Explora Lodge Rapa Nui
Day 2: Anakena Beach by Bike; Ara Moai Trail on Foot
Following a hearty breakfast, you’ll explore the scenic south coast of the island on a bike. Enjoy the warm breeze and ocean views as you cycle towards Anakena Beach, famous for its white sand and restored Moai statues. You can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters and a moment to cool down and enjoy the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
In the afternoon, explore Rano Raraku, the volcanic crater quarry where hundreds of moai were carved before hiking the Ara Moai trail, encountering numerous moai in various stages, offering a glimpse into the island's fascinating past. Plus fantastic views!
Return in time for your meal at the lodge where each meal you'll sample the best local cuisine from meat to vegetarian options to fish and fresh fruits. Don´t miss trying "Po'e", a traditional Rapa Nui banana cake, baked and served in banana leaves.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Explora Lodge Rapa Nui
Day 3: Orongo Crater Exploration (The Birdman Competition)
Today, immerse yourself in the legendary Birdman cult at Orongo, a ceremonial village perched on a dramatic cliffside with stunning sea views. Learn about the daring competition where warriors competed to retrieve the first egg of a specific seabird.
You'll also explore the intricate rock carvings depicting the Tangata Manu (Birdman) and see the restored ceremonial houses used during the competition. Plus, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views once more taking in the Motu Nui (large islet) and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Explora Lodge Rapa Nui
Day 4: Puakatiki Summit Hike; Snorkelling
This day starts early with a thrilling ascent to the summit of Puakatiki, Easter Island's highest point. Take in the panoramic vistas encompassing the entire island, from the volcanic craters to the scattered moai statues.
Descend the slopes and explore the ceremonial village of Mataveri, once home to astronomers and priests who studied the celestial bodies.
In the afternoon, gear up for some snorkelling in the warm waters at Anakena Beach or a different spot with a guide. You'll discover the vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish and marine life including seals and turtles.
Alternatively, if snorkelling isn't your thing, explore Hanga Roa, the main town, for some souvenir shopping and the chance to visit the popular Father Sebastian Englert Anthropological Museum. Then take your time to chill by the pool and maybe have a cocktail.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Explora Lodge Rapa Nui
Day 5: Unveiling the Miru Caves; Visit Ana Te Pahu
Embark on a full-day adventure exploring the hidden wonders of Easter Island's volcanic caves. You'll delve into the Miru Caves, used for burials and religious ceremonies and see the fascinating cave paintings depicting various figures and symbols, offering clues about the ancient culture.
Combine your cave exploration with a visit to the Ana Te Pahu, a restored moai platform with a unique collapsed head, offering a memorable perspective to round off your experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Explora Lodge Rapa Nui
Day 6: Free Morning; Fly to Santiago Airport
Most flights depart in the afternoon so you'll enjoy breakfast, lunch and some time to relax before your private-shared transfer from the lodge will take you back to Easter Island Airport for your departure flight of around 4.5 hours to Santiago.
For your last morning on Rapa Nui consider waking up early Visit Tongariki at sunrise for one of Easter Island's most memorable views!
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Why Swoop
We’ve got our feet on the ground
Impartial advice and a bespoke service to make your trip perfect.
Deep Roots in Patagonia
We are former guides, tour leaders, outdoor enthusiasts & adventurers.
For The Ends Of The Earth
Swoop is proud to be B Corp Certified as we know sustainability is more than our carbon footprint (but we’re reducing that too).
We’re With You At Every Step
We’ll make sure you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Prices, Departures and Inclusions
Additional Notes
Itinerary - This is an example of how you could spend your time on Rapa Nui. The in-house guides will meet with you upon your arrival to talk through all the options available including hiking, biking and diving/snorkelling. They will recommend the best excursions for you and will be with you for the entirety of your stay.
Length of stay: We recommend a minimum of three nights to get the true Easter Island experience but ideally you have 5 nights so you can learn about the Rapa Nui culture/history and see the incredible archaeological sites plus spend a day (or two) just enjoying the natural beauty of the island - beach, snorkelling, diving, hiking, local cuisine.
Group size – Minimum two people, maximum eight people
Room upgrades – Room upgrades and longer stays are available for an additional cost. Please get in touch for more information.
Includes
- Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
- Drinks: all drinks (except premium selection) during your stay
- Accommodation: Type (5 nights standard double or twin room)
- Excursions: all half and full-day group-guided excursions during your stay
- English and Spanish-speaking guide
- Transport: transfers to and from the airport and the hotel, upon arrival and departure.
Excludes
- Flights to/from Easter Island
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Premium selection of drinks
- Any extra/optional excursions
- Private-guided excursions (available in advance upon request)
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Equipment (request our recommended kit list for more details)
- Gratuities/Tips