Officially part of Chile, the mysterious and remote Easter Island lies in the middle of the South Pacific, a 5-hour flight from the mainland. This small volcanic rock is an extraordinary open-air museum of hundreds of moai (gigantic stone statues). Guided tours to ceremonial platforms and the quarry can be arranged, while the small village of Hanga Roa is easily explored on your own. We recommend stays of 3 or 4 nights due to the remote location and wealth of sites to visit.