Car Travel

To see Easter Island's less traveled areas, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is sometimes a necessity. There are three well-maintained, paved roads. The first traverses the island from Hanga Roa to Playa Anakena, the second goes to Ahu Akivi and forks off of the Anakena road, and the third runs along the southern coast. Other roads are loose gravel or packed dirt (or mud if it has rained recently), particularly those that take visitors to some of the most isolated spots. Though in some cases, there are no roads at all.

There are no international car rental chains with offices on Easter Island, but there are two reputable local agencies, Insular and Oceanic, which have vehicles for rent, as do the main tour operators. The minimum charge is about 50,000 pesos per day for a basic Jeep. Helmet use is mandatory on an ATV or scooter, which rent for 50,000 pesos and 30,000 pesos, respectively. If you plan on visiting during January and February, call a few days ahead to reserve a car.

You can also rent cars at many restaurants, souvenir shops, and guesthouses. If you ask around, you may find a significantly cheaper rate than what the rental companies charge. It is important to note that there is no vehicle insurance on Easter Island and any damage is charged to the client.

Contacts

Aku Aku. Av. Tu'u Koihu s/n, Hanga Roa, Hanga Roa, Easter Island, Valparaíso, 2770000. 3/2210–0770; www.akuakuturismo.cl.

Insular. Av. Atamu Tekena s/n, Hanga Roa, Easter Island, Valparaíso, 2770000. 3/2100–0480; www.rentainsular.cl.

Kia Koe. Av. Atamu Tekena s/n, Hanga Roa, Easter Island, Valparaíso, 2770000. 3/2210–0852; www.kiakoetour.cl.

Oceanic Rapa Nui. Av. Atamu Tekena s/n, Hanga Roa, Hanga Roa, Easter Island, Valparaíso, 2770000. 3/2210–0985; 3/2255–1392; www.rentacaroceanic.com.