6 DAYS : SANTIAGO, EASTER ISLAND

Tour overview:

This captivating tour of Santiago de Chile is a perfect mélange of history, panoramic views, and cultural landmarks. On this excursion it is possible to visit the area where Hotu Matua landed, the area where its tomb is believed to be and some of the places where a large part of the giant statues that populate Easter Island were built. You will follow the route which allows you to enter Rapa Nui mythology, learn about important elements of the island's geography and understand the enigmatic history of the ancient inhabitants of this isolated point of the planet.

Day 1 - Arrive in Santiago

Arrive in Santiago. Welcome and transfer from the airport to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Accommodation in Santiago.

Day 2 - Santiago - Half day - Walking in Santiago Like a Native Tour

(Private service with English speaking guide)

This walking tour is the perfect Fall in love with Santiago's charms discovering it as a local: walking. We will start the tour by boarding the subway and seeing some of the most picturesque stations. For example, the “Universidad de Chile” station is adorned by a mural created by a local artist, and it was chosen as one of the most beautiful in the world. We will a local market to appreciate Chile's coastal bounty, reflected in its fish and shellfish, and its diversity of fruits and vegetables. We will continue walking through Santiago's downtown to the Main Square (Plaza de Armas), a sample of the fantastic architecture that shines in every corner. Chilean flavors will not be absent, and we will make a stop to try local snacks such as empanadas and drinks made with local fruits. Finally, if energy and time allow it, we will arrive at the Bellavista neighborhood, one of the most representative full of charming streets. From there, you can explore the city on your own (we recommend ascending Cerro San Cristobal) or return to the hotel after a day of unforgettable experiences. (B)

Day 3 - Santiago / Easter Island

You will be taken to Santiago Airport for your next flight. Upon your arrival to Rapa Nui, pick up and transfer to the hotel. 

Half Day Tour Ahu Akivi Excursion (Shared)

This tour allows us to know and understand the connection of the ancient inhabitants of Easter Island with the Universe. The tour includes ceremonial centers erected in the central area of the island during the last period of construction of Moai, the most important of the Rapa Nui culture. They emphasize megalithic archaeological sites that show how astronomy determined the disposition of the giant statues and the platforms in which they are held, with which it is possible to enter into the worldview of the ancient Polynesian navigators who populated Easter Island. All points visited incorporate old sites that were created and used during the end of the Ahu-Moai phase. These sites represent various cultural developments of Rapa Nui history, all strategically deployed around ceremonial centers. It includes three restored sites: Ahu Huri to Urenga, Ahu to Kivi, Ahu Vai Teka and the quarry of Puna Pau, where the most attractive Pukao are (hats or headgear of red scoria that crown the heads of some Moai). Accommodation in Rapa Nui. (B)

Day 4 - Easter Island - Full day Tongariki Tour, Rano Raraku Volcano & Anakena Beach

Departure from the hotel to get introduced to the process of colonization of the island and the cultural features of the first inhabitants of Rapa Nui. Highlights here the story of Hotu Matua, the first king, who started a settlement that lasted more than 700 years and is recognized as the most prolific period of island culture. On this excursion it is possible to visit the area where Hotu Matua landed, the area where its tomb is believed to be and some of the places where a large part of the giant statues that populate Easter Island were built. The route begins in the town of Hanga Roa, heads towards the Anakena Beach along the road to the center of the island - sector known as Vaitea - and concludes with the return to Hanga Roa along the south coast of Rapa Nui. Accommodation in Rapa Nu  (B, Box Lunch)

Day 5 - Easter Island - Half day tour Orongo & Volcán Rano Kau Excursion (Shared)

Guided tour of some of the most important ceremonial centers of Easter Island. The tour includes rock paintings and archaeological sites of great cultural value, an ascent to the Rano Kau volcano and an interpretive trail through the ancestral town of Orongo. This route allows you to enter Rapa Nui mythology, learn about important elements of the island's geography and understand the enigmatic history of the ancient inhabitants of this isolated point of the planet. This visit incorporates the places where the Tangata Manu (Bird Man) competition is developed annually, based on a fundamental legend of the Rapa Nui culture. The myth points out that the man who captures the first Manutara egg (characteristic of the Pasco-bird) will be invested with supernatural powers and will exercise the political-military leadership of the island for a year. Afternoon at leisure.Lodging in Rapa Nui. (B)

Day 6 - Easter Island / Santiago de Chile

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight back home. (B)