Easter Island: Mystery, History, and More

This isolated Pacific island is world famous for its 887 monumental statues (called moai), but Easter Island has even more to offer those willing to make the trek. There are herds of wild horses—if you go on a hike around the island, you’re almost certain to run into a wild stallion or two. On the edge of the island, there’s a giant volcanic crater, and you can walk right up to peer over both sides, one into the crater and the other into the ocean.

Most of Easter Island is protected as part of Parque Nacional Rapa Nui. The park houses 20,000 archaeological sites, plus a number of moai, and costs just $10 to enter.

Easter Island also has the traditional island things going for it—lie out on a white-sand beach, or go SCUBA diving in the clear waters.

Where Is it? A Polynesian island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. Fly to the island’s Mataveri International Airport (check prices).

Where to Stay? At the Explora Rapa Nui—Posada de Mike Rapu, a property that’s more than just a hotel—the proprietors run fantastic personal tours and incorporated native influences into every aspect of the design.

Who’s it for? Mystery-seekers.

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