Easter Island Travel Agent Specialist

View My Main Profile
Christine Balcharan, Travel Agent in Yakima , WA

Christine Balcharan

Yakima , WA Travel Agent

Christine Balcharan

Yakima , WA · 10 Years of Experience

Adventures begins with Christine , an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Easter Island, Chile, South America

Interests:

Historical Sites, Water Sports, Festival Tours, Culinary & Foodie, Nature

About Me

Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui, is an island and special territory of Chile in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, at the south eastern most point of the Polynesian Triangle in Oceania. The island is known for its monumental statues, called moai. Easter Island is a World Heritage Site, with much of the island protected within Rapa Nui National Park. Why visit Easter Island with its Moai Statues and ancient history? This unique island also provides sandy beach for canoe landings and launchings. It is mysterious and offers a unique escape far from the beaten path, blending world-class archaeological exploration with tropical island relaxation and adventures. Sunset and Sunrise. Couples flock to Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial platform featuring 15 standing Moai, to watch spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Anakena Beach has a stunning, palm-fringed white sand beach boasting crystal-clear waters where you can swim and relax. Romantic Stargazing: Due to its immense isolation in the Pacific Ocean, the island offers breathtaking, crystal-clear night skies free of light and pollution. The World-Class Archaeology of the Moai Statues is the biggest attraction, seeing the nearly 1,000 human-like stone statues scattered across the island. Seeing the unfinished giants still embedded in the volcanic rock is a highly memorable experience. Ahu Tongariki, the iconic platform of 15 standing statues, sits right against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. Orongo, a Ceremonial Village located at the edge of the Rano Kau crater, this stone village is steeped in the history of the ancient "Birdman" competition. There are volcanoes and caves for the adventurous travelers to hike to the summit of the Terevaka Volcano or explore the island's intricate network of ancient volcanic caves. Snorkeling and Diving in clear, deep blue waters make it a great spot for underwater exploration, and you may even get to swim near sea turtles. Horseback riding is a popular way to explore the island, from riding up to its highest volcanic peaks to traversing remote coastlines. Enjoy the Culture and Vibe of the Tapati Rapa Nui Festival. If you visit in early February, the island hosts a two-week cultural festival featuring traditional music, dancing, and unique athletic competitions like sliding down hills on banana logs. Enjoy freshly caught seafood, such as local ceviche and empanadas filled with tuna or octopus, one of the island's favorites, and other local cuisine. Getting to the island requires flying more than 2,200 miles into the Pacific from Santiago, Chile. It's a massive appeal for travelers wanting to disconnect, unplug, and experience an isolated Polynesian paradise. Meet with the local for Storytelling, which brings it to life, explore Ancient Homesteads and Rocky Shorelines, attend a Traditional Cultural Dance Event, and visit the Father Sebastián Englert Museum of Anthropology, Hang out in Hanga Roa, the primary gateway to the island's iconic, giant moai statues, and as the vibrant hub of unique Polynesian-Chilean culture.