Hanga Roa Overview

By Zenan Delaney

Easter Island’s capital and only urban presence, Hanga Roa, lies in a low lying area, on the southern stretch of the westerly coast of Rapa Nui. The village of 3,500+ inhabitants is a treasure trove for any tourist, and a pleasure to walk round. The town’s speed limits, as low as 30 kmph, make for a pleasant change in the pace of life.

The center of Hanga Roa is adorned with mature trees and all kinds of invading vegetation. Lacking those familiar rows of flowering border plants in geometric designs, the plaza in front of the municipal building appears a bit shabby. Although, this adds to the island’s windswept feeling.

Two sizeable craft and souvenir markets and many small shops around twon offer a range of local goods. Cafes and restaurants have a variety of options, including tuna empanadas. Food on the island is pricey, average dishes in restaurants cost 7,000 pesos.

For the self caterer, the two local supermarkets offer a good alternative, though prices still reflect the islands remoteness. Rapa Nui is the world’s most remote inhabited island and combined with the fact that the island has no port makes it an expensive place.

There is a good selection of hotels in the center of town, but if you want to relax and have a quieter stay on the island choose one to the north of Hanga Roa.

To blow that travel weariness away, there is an excellent short walk from downtown heading north along the seafront. You’ll run into a few Moai statues and relax while watching the sea.