This isolated island, situated 2,300 miles off the western coast of South America, is one of the most mysterious places on earth. Numerous theories have surfaced about the Polynesian settlers, the Rapa Nui and the demise of their civilization. What survived are 900 moai statues (large, humanlike monoliths) spread across the island, with one measuring more than 70 feet tall. Ahu Tongariki on the southeast coast features 15 moai statues side by side. Since there are few flights here and accommodation options are limited, you'll want to plan your visit far in advance. #culturalattraction

While visiting my son in Chile I had the opportunity to fly to Easter Island and see the Moai! They are huge and amazing to view. It’s hard to imagine how ancient people were able to move them from the quarry without modern machines. Easter Island itself is a wonderful tropical getaway. I’m glad the I had the opportunity to visit and it’s a place I’d love to go again! #happynewyear #worldheritage #happynewyear

We took the Orongo trail, the one that ancient Rapa Nui took each year on their bird man cult celebration, and we hiked to the top of Rano Kau volcano to be greeted by a gigantic crater, filled with an amazing wetland. Not only the view to the wetland is breathtaking, but if you look back, you can see the entire Easter Island, including the two other volcanoes: Poike and Terevaka. #givethanks #givethanks

This is the ceremonial village where the villages held the Birdman competition to retrieve the 1st tern egg from an island across the Mata Nui inlet. There are quite a few houses with shale walls and a very small entry. Although you can't go inside one they are very interesting to see, along with the petroglyphs. #givethanks #givethanks

The beach was filled with both locals and travelers, soft sand, some low rolling hills and on top overlooking it all were a fantastic collection of Moai statues. The parking lot leads to a foot path with restaurants and shops on both sides and at the end is the beach. A must stop to see the Moai with a beach background #givethanks #givethanks

Buy your ticket at the airport for ease $54 Chilean pesos per person, valid for 10 days, most places can be revisited, just a couple not. The whole island is effectively the national park and you need your ticket every time you go to a place. Well worth the money, especially if they use it for the greater good. #givethanks #givethanks

Our favourite site on the island. This is the quarry where the majority if the Moai were carved and then transported to various parts of the island. There are many Moai in various stages of completion. The terrain is uneven and the trails on the hill are up and down - so can be difficult to manage. #givethanks #givethanks

This is the sunrise spot and can get very busy. Depending on what type of camera/lense you have you might prefer to stay out of the walled area to get the wide angle and sea behind. Try and go during the afternoon too to get the light on their faces. #givethanks #givethanks

Chile Travel - Easter Island under the stars, this magical island is full of charm under the stars. The Stone Giant is like a dialogue with the stars, and it is like the most powerful guard on the island. Easter Island rises and falls in the sun, and night falls to the Milky Way. Every island can make this island show its charm. I really admire the people who made these stone carvings. I am leaving Chile. Although I am leaving with the doubts of most people, I hope to listen to others telling stories about this place. I don't know if I am like me?