Easter Island

After four and a half months in South America, we left Santiago. Although strictly speaking Easter Island is part of Chile, it certainly felt like we were leaving.
Easter Island has to be one of the most magical and mysterious places we have ever been. As there is no firm explanation for the presence of the stone Moai statues it makes the whole place so intriguing. They are colossal pieces of rock, hand carved and moved huge distances. The largest is 21m in length. Many Moai, knocked over by either man or nature (a huge Tsunami hit the island in the 1960’s) litter the coast. The quarry where many were carved is incredible. Hundreds can be found in various states of creation either still attached to the rock or standing awaiting transport to their final destination. Seeing sunrise above one particular site was especially magical, only about 6 people were there and we felt quite privileged. One evening we saw a perfomance by traditional Kari Kari dancers which was really vibrant and colourful.
Three days later we were sad to be leaving such a great place. It is certainly tricky to get to, but well worth the effort. We would recommend Easter Island to anyone.


Our first view of Easter Island from the plane


Sunrise over the Moai of Tongariki


Stephen turns to stone


The impressive 15 Moai of Tongariki


Moai litter the quarry


Rebecca on the beach


Horses at Tongariki


Kari Kari dancers


Kari Kari dancers