Easter Island and the Tapati Festival

Encircled by snow-capped peaks, Santiago is known for its colonial charm and historic landmarks, but surprises with its fresh air of modernity, with vibrant neighborhoods buzzing with cutting-edge restaurants and bars. At the heart of the old town lies the grand Plaza de Armas and the presidential palace of La Moneda, both central to Santiago’s story of conquest, dictatorship and revolution. A walking tour weaves through the capital’s most fascinating highlights in a morning, culminating in a cable car ride to the summit of San Cristóbal Hill for views across the city. Cap off your excursion with a visit the pre-Colombian Art Museum with an expert guide. Tonight, attend a welcome dinner at the home of a local chef.

Situated 2,300 miles from the nearest populated point, Easter Island is considered the world’s largest “open-air museum.” This 64-square-mile island is known for its moai, or human-like stone statues, which remain mysterious even to archaeologists. Begin with an exploration of local Rapa Nui culture on a walking tour of Hanga Roa, the island’s main town. Pause for a scenic cocktail hour at the restored Ahu Tahai ceremonial complex, site of sturdy and fascinating statues. Later, proceed to Hanga Vare Vare to experience the Tapati Rapa Nui activities. These performances may include kai kai (string figure storytelling), takona (body painting), riu and ute (songs), pata’u ta’u (recitations) and a’amu (narratives).

Awake as a breathtaking sunrise silhouettes the 15 moai of Ahu Tongariki, one of the island’s most iconic sites. Drive along the southeastern coast, stopping at the Rano Raraku volcano, a site where most of the island’s moai were originally carved and 394 remain in various stages of completion. As you walk to the top of the crater, discover the pretty freshwater lake. Continue to Anakena Beach to view the partially restored moai set to be returned to their ceremonial placements. Tonight, attend more festivities at Hanga Vare Vare.

Visit Ahu Vinapu, its incredible stone walls reminiscent of those built by the Incas. Ascend the Rano Kau volcano to the ceremonial village of Orongo, the center of the Birdman Cult. Here, a ceremony was held to elect the island’s religious leader, Tangata Manu. See the village’s meticulously restored soft-stone houses and the petroglyph-adorned cliff. Take in a vast Pacific panorama of the islets Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao-Kao. Tonight, watch Tapati competitions at Hanga Vare Vare.

Explore Ahu Akivi, an inland site featuring seven moai looking stoically out to sea. Then, proceed to Puna Pau, a crater where the Rapa Nui once carved the pukao (topknot) that was placed atop some of the moai. After an afternoon to yourself, head out for your evening amid the magic of the Tapati Festival.

Embark by boat and navigate through the breathtaking Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kao-Kao islets. Marvel at this awe-inspiring coastal vista just as the first explorers did so many years ago. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner at a local Rapa Nui home.

Unwind with one last morning on Easter Island before flying back to Santiago.