See the Moai of Easter Island

Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth - over 2,000 miles from the nearest population center. The island is famous for its nearly 900 Moai, massive stone statues carved by the Rapa Nui people between 1250-1500 AD.

The statues average 4 meters tall and 14 tons, though the largest is over 10 meters. Most were carved at the Rano Raraku quarry, where you can still see dozens of unfinished Moai in various stages of completion. How they moved these massive statues across the island remains debated.

Ahu Tongariki, with 15 restored Moai standing in a row, is the most iconic site. Rano Kau crater and the Orongo ceremonial village offer different perspectives on the island's history.

Pro tip: Rent a car or scooter to explore at your own pace - the island is small but sites are spread out. LATAM flies from Santiago, Chile (5-6 hours). Stay at least 3 days to see the main sites without rushing. Sunrise at Ahu Tongariki is worth the early wake-up.