A to Z of Must-Do Travel Experiences – E for ‘Easter Island’
{ Tags: Easter Island, Island Heads, Moai, Rapa Nui \ Jun4 }
With its location over 2,000 miles from the nearest population centre, Easter Island is no doubt one of the most isolated places on earth. Its closest neighbours are Chile and Tahiti.
Easter Island is most well known for its Moai, or giant monolithic stone statues which dot the coastline. The statues are figures kneeling on bent knees with their hand over their stomachs.
The vague history of the islanders coupled with the questions behind how they managed to carve and transport the massive statues, has led to speculation of extra-terrestrial influences.
At its peak, the population of Easter Island stood at over 10,000. Unfortunately due to the population exceeding the capabilities of the island’s ecosystem, which led to the destruction of natural resources, coupled with civil wars and a breakdown in the social order, the population eventually dwindled to approximately 110 by the turn of the century. Since being annexed by Chile in 1888, the population has slowly climbed to its present population of over 2,000.
Easter Island is today one of the most unique places you will ever encounter. On the island you will find the remnants of a fascinating lost culture. The people are among the friendliest, and the island’s volcanic craters, lava formations, beaches and brilliant blue waters make up a spectacular landscape.