Easter Island Photography Tour

Go back in time as you journey and explore Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui.

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DepartureApril 13th - 19th, 20262026

DestinationEaster Island, ChilePhotography journey

Photography focusCulture & landscapeField-led learning

Group styleSmall groupHosted experience

About this expedition

Go back in time as you journey and explore Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui. Immerse yourself in the mysterious allure of one of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations. From the over 1,000 iconic moai statues to pristine natural landscapes, Easter Island offers endless opportunities for photographers to capture the essence of this ancient Polynesian paradise. If the weather allows, special lighting and permits will be acquired for two nights of late entry to photograph the moai lit up under the night sky. Pamper yourself during your stay at one of “The Leading Hotels of the World” resorts. Let Easter Island ignite your creativity and inspire your imagination like never before!

Note: Dan and Tanya won’t lead this tour. However, Natural Exposures will handle all the arrangements as specified. A local guide will be with you during your stay, and a local photography guide will accompany you for the evening shoots.

Itinerary

Monday, April 13

Arrive in Santiago. Overnight at the Holiday Inn Santiago – Airport Terminal

If you’re interested in wine tasting or any other tour in Santiago pre-/post-tour, we can help! Please email Tanya at info@naturalexposures.com.

Tuesday, April 14 (B, D)

Fly from Santiago, Chile, to Easter Island today. Please book this flight to remain with the group for transfers:

Depart Santiago (SCL) at 9:15 am
Arrive Easter Island (IPC) at 12:40 pm
LATAM Flight LA 841

We will supply all necessary documentation for entry into Rapa Nui.

Upon arrival on Easter Island, transfer as a group to Nayara Hangaroa. This 5-star luxury resort and “Leading Hotels of the World” will be our home for the next four nights. After settling in, take a stroll through the charming town of Hanga Roa, soaking in the local culture and preparing for the adventure ahead.

Overnight at Nayara Hangaroa

Wednesday, April 15 – Friday, April 17 (B + L or D)

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting beauty of Rapa Nui National Park as you embark on an unforgettable journey. Each day, your adventure begins with a pre-dawn expedition to witness the breathtaking spectacle of sunrise, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration and discovery. After capturing the awe-inspiring sunrise, you’ll retreat to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a leisurely midday break. Later, regroup to delve deeper into the ancient archaeological wonders and stunning landscapes of Rapa Nui. There is flexibility to adjust the schedule and to take advantage of the best lighting and weather conditions for optimal photography.

This expedition will take you along Rapa Nui’s rugged coastline, encompassing dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and secluded beaches that define its natural beauty. Venture to the heart of Easter Island’s cultural heritage at the Rano Raraku quarry, known as the “birthplace of moai,” and a place of profound significance on Easter Island. Here, along the slopes of the now-extinct volcano, ancient artisans meticulously carved the imposing figures from the volcanic rock, fashioning each one with remarkable precision and skill. This surreal landscape is dotted with statues in various stages of completion, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s artistic legacy.

You’ll also visit Anakena Beach, a pristine paradise of white sand and aquamarine waters surrounded by lush vegetation and palm trees. This serene haven not only showcases natural beauty but also holds cultural significance as the legendary landing site of the island’s ancestors. Nearby, the archaeological site of Ahu Nau Nau features a row of restored moai standing sentinel against the backdrop of the ocean, providing a captivating glimpse into the island’s history.

Ahu Tongariki, located on the island’s southeastern coast, boasts the largest collection of monumental moai statues ever erected, some reaching up to 30 feet in height!

As the sun sets, casting a golden glow across the landscape, the ancient stone figures take on a mesmerizing allure, bathed in the warm, soft light and set against a backdrop of vibrant colors painting the sky.

On select evenings, there will be an extended stay in Rapa Nui to photograph the iconic moai statues into the night, unveiling a whole new dimension of their mystique and grandeur. As darkness descends over Easter Island, the ancient stone figures take on an ethereal presence, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight or illuminated by the subtle hues of artificial lighting. Against the backdrop of the star-studded sky, the silhouettes of the moai cast striking shadows, evoking a sense of timeless reverence and intrigue.

Overnight at Nayara Hangaroa

Saturday, April 18 (B)

As the tour draws to a close, take time to reflect on the experiences and memories shared during your time on Easter Island. Depart with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and mystery of Easter Island, carrying with you a portfolio of images that capture its essence for years to come.

Fly from Easter Island back to Santiago today. Please book this flight to remain with the group for transfers:

Depart Easter Island (IPC) at 2:30 pm
Arrive Santiago (SCL) at 9:00 pm
LATAM Flight LA 842

Overnight at the Holiday Inn Santiago – Airport Terminal