The island's isolated location limits its native fauna, with no indigenous land mammals. Notable wildlife includes several seabird species like frigate birds and petrels, while the surrounding waters host diverse marine life including green sea turtles and numerous fish species. The island's shores attract migratory birds, and introduced species include horses, which now roam freely across the landscape. The waters around Rapa Nui support vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.
Despite its current relatively sparse vegetation, Rapa Nui once supported dense palm forests. Today's landscape features introduced species like eucalyptus and guava alongside native plants such as toromiro (nearly extinct in the wild), marikuru shrubs, and various grasses. The island's botanical heritage includes several endemic species, though many are now rare. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining native plants and reintroducing species that once thrived on the island.
The island formed through volcanic activity, created by three main extinct volcanoes: Terevaka, Poike, and Rano Kau. The terrain features volcanic tuff, the primary material used for carving moai, and basalt rock formations. Notable geological features include the Rano Raraku quarry, numerous lava tubes, and the dramatic crater of Rano Kau. The island's volcanic origins provided the raw materials that made the remarkable moai statues possible, while also creating the distinctive landscape visitors see today.
Rapa Nui's fascinating history began with Polynesian settlers arriving around 800-1200 CE, establishing a complex civilization that created the iconic moai statues. The island's society flourished until environmental degradation and population pressures led to decline by the 1600s. European contact began in 1722, leading to devastating changes including disease epidemics and slave raids. Chile annexed the island in 1888, and today Rapa Nui operates as a special territory, balancing tourism development with preservation of its unique cultural heritage.
The island's most famous attractions are the moai statues, with nearly 900 monolithic stone figures scattered across the landscape. Key sites include the Rano Raraku quarry where many moai were carved, the restored ceremonial village of Orongo, and Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial site with 15 restored moai. The island also features ancient petroglyphs, the volcanic crater of Rano Kau, and beautiful beaches like Anakena with its white coral sand and palm trees.
Rapa Nui enjoys a subtropical climate with year-round mild temperatures ranging from 18-28°C (64-82°F). The island experiences its warmest weather from January to March and coolest from July to September. While rain can occur in any season, the heaviest precipitation typically falls between April and June. Trade winds provide consistent breezes, and the surrounding Pacific Ocean helps moderate temperatures. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and strong sun exposure, as the island's remote location offers little natural shelter.
Chile
-38.4330°, -71.5330°
1977
89.7
Rupa Rupa National Reserve is characterized by its native Araucaria forests and volcanic landscapes. The reserve provides important habitat for various endemic species and offers scenic hiking trails. It plays a crucial role in protecting the region's unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.