Shutting down my inbox and hanging up my travel planner hat for a bit, once again I got to step into the role I help others live: the traveler, the adventurer. Chile offers no shortage of opportunities for exploration, but this year’s scouting mission to Rapa Nui was a true highlight of my trips with Knowmad. The island’s mystery, vast views, fascinating geography, and living culture pull you in from the first view out the plane window. Staying at Explora Rapa Nui felt like the perfect way to culminate this unique adventure.
Up Top the Hill — A Design for the Setting
Explora Rapa Nui sits on a quiet stretch of the island’s southern coast, surrounded by open meadows, gentle hills, and the endless horizon of the Pacific. It’s close enough to Hanga Roa to be convenient, but far enough to feel like your own world — a place that reflects Rapa Nui’s isolation and serenity.
Leaving town, we turned off the island’s “main highway” (a humble, two-lane road) onto a dirt track. When we parked, I still couldn’t see the lodge, just a stone path winding through the trees. Then the trail widened and we could see the main common area, where an open wall of large windows revealed a sweeping view over the Pacific.
Designed by Chilean architect José Cruz Ovalle, known for his organic, site-sensitive style, Explora feels less like a building and more like a continuation of the landscape. The curved structure echoes the island’s volcanic forms, while warm woods and volcanic stone root it to the earth.
One evening, the sky opened. Rain poured down in sheets, yet the open-sided lounge stayed dry and chill. I sat with a glass of Carménère and a plate of fresh tuna caught that morning, watching the downpour blur the view beyond the terrace. One of those small, perfect moments that stays with you.
The sunrise and sunset on the island are nature’s big shows, and the location is ideal to enjoy them. Mornings start with soft pinks and drifting clouds, and by evening, the ocean takes on stronger blue and copper tones as the golden hour sets in.
Down below, the pool and spa sit on a secluded platform surrounded by trees, complete with their own bar and sitting area. Because Rapa Nui’s sites are nearby and drive times short, you’ll actually have time to enjoy the property between excursions – a rare treat on an adventure trip.
All Rooms Face the Sea
Explora keeps things intimate with just 30 rooms, including four suites. Each room faces the ocean, simple yet warm – all wood tones, soft textures, and natural light. There are no TVs or unnecessary frills; just space to recharge after a day outdoors. The Varúa Rooms (32 m²) open to sweeping ocean or countryside views, while the Raa Suites (44 m²) add a cozy living space and deep hydro-massage bath.
I really enjoyed the rooms closest to the main areas, personally, as they balanced the sea and countryside views beautifully. But, truthfully, every room at Explora Rapa Nui offers that calming sense of being tucked away at the edge of the Pacific.
Exploration: The Heart of It All
Rapa Nui isn’t a place to just sit still. Explora knows this, and their guided explorations are at the core of the experience.
After arrival from Santiago around midday and a quick lunch, we headed straight to Ahu Tongariki, home to fifteen towering Moai statues. Walking alongside them, with the ocean at your back, is the perfect way to start the journey.
That evening, back at the lodge, guests gathered in a small theater to plan the next day’s adventures with Explora’s guides. Must-see sites like Orongo, Rano Raraku, Anakena Beach, and Ahu Akivi can be covered in three or four half-day outings.
Beyond the archaeology, the island’s landscapes invite exploration. Descend into Lava caves which open to hidden sea views from tight portals in some parts and in others are large open chambers. The rolling hills and ocean vistas also make Rapa Nui ideal for biking, and Explora has a small fleet of mountain bikes ready. My ride to the island’s highest point followed by biking back downhill with the Pacific spread out below was an absolute highlight.
Excursions include a support vehicle, and guides are constantly updating routes to weave in lesser-known spots. If you can, plan an extra day to mix in a ride or hike with the classic sites. During summer, don’t miss the sunrise at Ahu Tongariki, when the first light glows behind the Moai.
There are plenty of half- and full-day hikes to explore once you’ve seen the major sites. If these more adventurous excursions are your interest, I’d recommend a four-night stay instead of three, so you can get to do everything on your list and perhaps some activities not yet known.
It is important to point out that Explora’s excursions are in small groups and have a certain structure and order to them. If you prefer the flexibility of a private guide, then their format might not be the best fit. To learn more about exploring the island with a private guide and the hotel options that would accompany it, read my recent blog post from this visit.
Culture & Connection
One thing to know: getting into town takes a bit of effort. Explora typically includes a visit to Hanga Roa on your departure day, which is a good time to explore the local culture, shops, and small cafés. The lodge also hosts occasional Polynesian music and dance performances on-site. A nice touch if you don’t make it into town.
Insider Tips
- Don’t stress about room categories unless you want a private sitting area, the Varúa Rooms are perfect.
- The arrival day excursion will always go to the line of 15 Moai, Ahu Tongariki, but doesn’t include the quarry right next to Rano Raraku, so you will want to return to this area to visit it. Explora does have some nice biking options that can incorporate Rano Raraku, which is a true must-see spot.
- For those who enjoy some light-to-moderate mountain biking, then biking to the highest point on the island is a must. The descent gives you a smooth downhill with views of the sea and the volcanic craters – an awesome way to experience this part of the island!
- Thanks to the island’s short drive times, you’ll have plenty of time to use the pool, spa, and common areas between excursions.
- If you’re focused on Moai sites and archaeology, 3 nights works well; if you want biking, hiking, and more variety, go for 4 nights.
- Most return flights depart before lunch, so grab a few snacks at breakfast. There’s no lunch box provided, and the airport’s options are limited.
Explora Rapa Nui captures what makes the island special: the mystery and the seclusion, with a vast landscape of volcano craters, ocean, and sunset on the horizon. It’s a place where comfort meets discovery, and where each day ends with the Pacific twinkling just outside your window.
If you have any questions on travel to Easter Island or are interested in crafting a custom trip to Easter Island and beyond, reach out to me at [email protected] or 612-415-2894 ext 109.
Colin is a Trip Specialist with Knowmad Adventures, a South American travel company that designs active, authentic, and sustainable journeys for independent travelers. Based in Santiago, Chile since 2004, this Iowa native has spent years exploring the country’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and hidden corners.
