Aukara Lodge

Rapa Nui (Easter Island)


A good pick, though the 'Lodge' bit is a gross misnomer. Where else could you find an establishment with an art gallery featuring various paintings and woodcarvings by Bene Tuki, the proprietor? The rooms themselves are nothing outstanding but spruce enough, and the shady garden is a great place to chill out. It's easy walking distance from the action.

Bene's wife, Ana Maria, is also an artist (and children's book author), speaks excellent English and is very knowledgeable about the history of the island. The couple's gallery is worth a visit even if you don't sleep here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rapa Nui (Easter Island) attractions

1. Playa Pea

0.43 MILES

For a little dip, the tiny beach at Playa Pea, on the south side of Caleta Hanga Roa, fits the bill (though it's more of a rocky cove than a sandy oasis).

2. Caleta Hanga Piko

0.47 MILES

Easily overlooked by visitors, the little Caleta Hanga Piko is used by local fishers. Facing away from the caleta, the restored Ahu Riata supports a…

3. Ahu Tautira

0.49 MILES

If you've just arrived and can't wait for your first encounter with the moai (large anthropomorphic statues), head straight to Ahu Tautira. This site…

4. Caleta Hanga Roa

0.52 MILES

Your first encounter with the moai will probably take place at Ahu Tautira, which overlooks Caleta Hanga Roa, the fishing port in Hanga Roa at the foot of…

5. Iglesia Hanga Roa

0.59 MILES

The unmissable Iglesia Hanga Roa, the island's Catholic church, is well worth a visit for its spectacular carvings, which integrate Christian doctrine…

6. Ana Kai Tangata

0.84 MILES

This vast cave carved into black cliffs sports beautiful rock paintings with birdman motifs. However, when we passed through it was closed due to falling…

7. Parque Nacional Rapa Nui

0.91 MILES

The vast majority of Rapa Nui falls within the boundaries of this national park. Think of it like an open-air museum with mysterious archaeological sites…

8. Ahu Tahai

1.05 MILES

Ahu Tahai is a highly photogenic site that contains three restored ahu (ceremonial platform). Ahu Tahai proper is the ahu in the middle, supporting a…