Easter Island received its first group of tourists on 4 August, after the island was closed off for more than two years due to the Covid pandemic.
Mataveri International Airport in Easter Island as the first flight arrives on 4 August after its borders were closed for more than two years. Picture: Rapa Nui Municipality
Easter Island is situated some 3 000 km off the coast of Chile, famous for its large stone statues – almost a thousand carved heads from centuries ago – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The island prolonged reopening its borders, citing concerns over keeping its residents safe. There are now flights between Santiago and the island every Thursday and Saturday with Chilean-based airline, Latam, hoping to add more.
Visitors to the island must be fully vaccinated and present a negative PCR test taken no longer than 24 hours before boarding a domestic flight to the island. Tourists aboard an international flight must take an antigen test upon arrival. Visitors may not stay longer than 30 days on the island.
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