More than a thousand years ago, truly adventurous travelers sailed east on Polynesian outriggers to Chile's most remote Pacific outpost, where they carved colossal statues from volcanic quarries and erected them on massive platforms. It's still possible to reach Easter Island by boat—freighter, anyway—but almost everyone nowadays prefers taking the five-hour flight from Santiago to wander among the world-famous monuments.
Based in the village of Hanga Roa, most visitors spend several days exploring the island on foot, bicycle, horseback, or by car. The more adventurous can take their chances surfing (there are good breaks but few sandy beaches) or visit the offshore islet of Mota Nui, where there are cave paintings. Easter Island is accessible all year, but the winter months are rainier and cooler, and flights are usually fewer—twice a week instead of three times.
Trip Facts Difficulty rating: Easy to moderate When to go: September–May
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