Visiting Easter Island (Rapa Nui) had been a dream of mine for years. Its remoteness, the mystery of the moai, and the powerful mana of the place called to me – but I knew it wouldn’t be cheap.

That said, it was worth every cent. Here’s a complete breakdown of what we spent during our unforgettable 5-day stay on one of the world’s most remote and magical islands.

We traveled as a family of 3 – two adults and our 3-year-old daughter. One thing that surprised us: toddlers are actually quite budget-friendly.

1. Flights (Santiago – Easter Island round trip): 1800€

We flew roundtrip from Santiago de Chile with LATAM, paying 600€ per person. Prices usually range between 300€ and 700€, depending on the time of year. February is peak season due to the Tapati Festival, which is when we visited.

Flight tip: It’s often cheaper to book two one-way tickets rather than a roundtrip, so check both options when planning. Also, I noticed the price went down closer to the date (2 months before).

** Note: If you’re not already in Chile, take into account the international flights to Santiago. From Europe, direct flights from Barcelona to Santiago with Level range from 600€ to 1000€ roundtrip, depending on the season and how early you book.

2. Accommodation: 570€

We stayed at Tojika Hostel in a private bungalow with a sea view — and the view was even better than the pictures!

• 4 nights = 470 €
• Additional fee for our daughter = 25€/night x 4 = 100€

Family tip: Always ask in advance whether children are charged separately – policies vary a lot on the island and also in general. At Tojika, the extra fee was worth it for the space and privacy a bungalow gives you when traveling with a child.

Breakfast wasn’t included, but the kitchen was well-equipped for self-catering.

3. Transportation: 95€

On our second day we rented a car from our host

• Car rental for a day: 80€
• Gasoline: 15€

4. Food & Dining: 400€

We saved on food by preparing our own breakfasts and grabbing simple lunches, but we enjoyed dinner out every night. Here’s what we spent, per adult:

• Dinner or lunch (5 x 30€): 150€
• Groceries: 30€
• Fruits (from local vendors): 20€

Family saving: Toddlers eat free in practice – Thea shared everything with us and we never once ordered a separate meal. Budget €0 extra for food if your child is not a big eater.

5. Tours & Park Entry: 376€

Most of Easter Island is part of a national park, and you need a guide to visit many archaeological sites. We booked tours with Hahave Rapa Nui.

• Park entrance (valid 10 days): 73€
• Guided tours (3 days): ~115€ (120.000 CLP)

Best family saving on the island: Thea joined every single tour and park visit completely free – no park entrance fee (€73 saved), no guided tour fees (€115 saved). That’s nearly €200 saved just because she’s under a certain age.

Always ask about children’s pricing before booking!

6. Other Expenses: 240€

We each got a tattoo to commemorate the experience – a very personal and meaningful souvenir.

• Tattoo (per adult): 100
• Souvenirs: 20€

TOTAL COST

Is Easter Island Worth the Cost for a Family?

€3,481 for 5 days is not a small amount. But here’s how we think about it: Easter Island is not a destination you visit twice. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience 

If Easter Island is on your bucket list, don’t wait until your kids are older. The magic of this island is ageless. Start saving, start planning, and GO!!

‘Iorana 🗿