Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a remote Polynesian island in the Pacific Ocean. It is renowned for its enigmatic Moai statues and the mysteries surrounding its ancient civilization.
The Moai Statues
Easter Island is most famous for its colossal stone statues known as Moai. These monolithic figures were carved by the island's early inhabitants and placed on ceremonial platforms called Ahu.
Mataveri International Airport
Mataveri International Airport is known as the most remote airport in the world, based on its distance to the nearest airport. It is 2,336 miles (3,759 km) away from Santiago, Chile (SCL), which offers scheduled flights through LATAM Chile. The airport's runway extends from near the island's southeast coast almost reaching the west, with the runway nearly separating the Rano Kau mountain from the rest of the island. As the main entry point for visitors to Easter Island, the airport features a transit lounge that previously served passengers flying to or from Papeete, Tahiti, a route serviced by LATAM until June 2020.
Mataveri Airport's first scheduled flights from mainland Chile began in 1967 with monthly LAN-Chile Douglas DC-6B propeller flights that took nine hours. The runway was originally extended and paved for potential U.S. military use. By 1970, LAN-Chile upgraded services to weekly Boeing 707 jet flights connecting Santiago, Chile, and Papeete, Tahiti. Over time, the airline introduced larger jets like the Boeing 767 and Airbus A340 to the route. Additionally, the airport's runway, at 3,318 meters (10,885 feet), was lengthened in 1987 as part of a NASA project, making it an abort site for U.S. Space Shuttle missions, although this space program was later canceled. This extension allowed wide-body jets to land, contributing to a significant increase in tourism.
Archaeological Marvels
The island is dotted with archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, caves, and the quarry where the Moai were carved. These sites offer glimpses into the island's intriguing history.
UNESCO World Heritage
Easter Island's cultural and archaeological significance led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The preservation of its heritage is of global importance.
Polynesian Culture
Despite its remote location, Easter Island maintains a vibrant Polynesian culture, with traditional music, dance, and customs that continue to thrive.
Easter Island remains a captivating destination, drawing travelers and archaeologists alike to unravel the secrets of its past and appreciate the enduring legacy of its ancient civilization.