Owned by Chile but sitting way out in the Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between mainland South America and Tahiti, is the isolated Easter Island - once home to one of the most enigmatic civilisations ever to walk the earth: the Rapa Nui.
While the entire native population may have been wiped out several hundred years ago, the giant stone heads - known as moai - for which they are famous still remain, and provide a unique and fascinating window into a bygone era. In total, there are 887 of these incredible structures to be found on Easter Island, with the highest concentration being located at a volcanic quarry called Rano Raraku.
The island is popular among both amateur and professional archaeologists, and is also a wonderful hiking destination, with the moai providing some excellent reference points for those who choose to explore the island on foot. What's more, Easter Island is home to a fantastic white sand beach called Anakena. Not only is this a great place to relax and take in the scenery, but it also has a reputation for being one the world's top surfing destinations.
Owned by Chile but sitting way out in the Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between mainland South America and Tahiti, is the isolated Easter Island - once home to one of the most enigmatic civilisations ever to walk the earth: the Rapa Nui.
While the entire native population may have been wiped out several hundred years ago, the giant stone heads - known as moai - for which they are famous still remain, and provide a unique and fascinating window into a bygone era. In total, there are 887 of these incredible structures to be found on Easter Island, with the highest concentration being located at a volcanic quarry called Rano Raraku.
The island is popular among both amateur and professional archaeologists, and is also a wonderful hiking destination, with the moai providing some excellent reference points for those who choose to explore the island on foot. What's more, Easter Island is home to a fantastic white sand beach called Anakena. Not only is this a great place to relax and take in the scenery, but it also has a reputation for being one the world's top surfing destinations.
