Review: Explora Hotel Rapa Nui

Explora Hotel Rapa Nui is a small boutique, all-inclusive luxury lodge 20 minutes from the main town of Hanga Roa.  Located in a remote area of the island, it truly is a tranquil, restful retreat - especially after a busy day exploring the island.

Upon arrival in Easter Island, a driver was waiting for me and other arriving guests after I collected my baggage.  I was cheerfully greeted by Renate the guide and welcomed with a beautiful flower lei.  Our driver George was also welcoming. 

At the hotel, Mahanua, the Guest Experience Manager, personally greeted and welcomed us and quickly helped us check in and get settled in our rooms.  

Her Welcome note was an especially nice touch!

Despite the walls of the room being plain concrete (as were the floors), I found the rooms to be welcoming, warm and very comfortable.  Decor was simple yet just right for the environment - the views amazing and most important - so QUIET!  Not once did I hear a neighbor or anyone around... except when I opened the window I did hear the rooster crowing at sunrise!

The main gathering spaces were also simple, welcoming and comfortable.  The views to the East over the ocean made for incredible sunrise views.  

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Food was quite good.  The menu was not huge but not having a large number of choices was actually quite nice. There was enough variety - fish, meat, vegan, etc. They served lovely Chilean wines but all beverages were included (all day) so whatever your preferences,  they accommodate.   And the butter came in the form of Moai!

The property is stunning, the staff friendly and professional, and being all-inclusive is worth the value.  But what sets this property apart are the included excursions.

Each day you have a choice of AM and PM excursions (or an all day excursion) ranging from easy to moderate or strenuous activities.  Van rides, hikes, biking, snorkeling, boat rides - many to choose from.  Last count about 30 different ones.  And they become private if you are the only one interested in that particular one - they don't move you to another one.  All of my guides were wonderful. 

My understanding is no other property on the island includes active excursions - most are all van trips.  

Shortly after lunch on arrival day we all went to Ahu Tongariki - the platform with the 15 Moai.  No other visitors - just the 5 of us.  Perfect after a long flight. And we ended the day with a "sundowner" - they offered beverages and snacks (fruit, cheese, crackers) to hold us until dinner.  

On day 2 I tried the more strenuous hike option in the AM (yes it was strenuous - 6 miles uphill) - the Birdman Walk through the cow fields up to the volcano.  In the PM most of joined the easy Rano Raraku tour which took us to the quarry where the Moai were carved.  Day 3 AM had me on an easier hike along the coastline which ended at King's Landing.  The beach was wonderful.  In the afternoon I opted for the easier tour which included exploring 1 of 3 lava tubes.  One cave was enough! It became a private tour which made for wonderful one on one conversations with my guide.  I could have gone snorkeling the morning before my flight but chose to simply relax.

Explora has a number of properties in addition to Easter Island - three in Patagonia (Torres del Paine Park and El Chalten), two in the Atacama Desert and one in Peru.  Based on my experience in Easter Island I would highly recommend looking into these properties as well.  

​The overall experience from start to finish - simply top notch.  Highly recommend it.  

Ready for an experience that takes your adventure to a new level?  I'm here to help you.  Call 602-540-7338 or email [email protected] to get started.