Our adventure on Rapa Nui, the original name for Easter Island, starts at full speed. Although we initially planned to take it slow, a fellow traveller bubbling with ideas swept us into action. We coordinated last-minute plans and beat our way through the tricky jungle of rental cars. Today was a mix of spontaneity and logistical puzzle-solving. But it was rewarding because we successfully secured our wheels for the next day and experienced our very first sunset over the Polynesian Pacific.
The jungle of rental cars
Although we wanted to initially take it slow our first full day, we immediately coordinated with new Couchsurfing acquaintances and rental car agencies today. Miléna from France had 24 hours left on the island and suggested a sunrise by Ahu Tongariki, the island’s most famous archeological site for our third day. I was already picturing the moai silhouettes against the morning sun and completely ignored Stefano’s tired sigh. He knows there’s no stopping me once I got an idea in my head.
Our simple car rental inquiry with our host Kathy turned into a full-blown detective mission. We spent hours in WhatsApp conversations with local connections. Finally, I realized that for a remote island, the locals’ business radar is remarkably sharp. On the other end, we are persistent detectives and found a tiny Zuzuki for 45,000 CPL to pick up from a hotel in the evening – a very good deal with no paperwork at all!
Our first Rapa Nui sunset
If you want to train your strength and courage, try wading into the Pacific alongside sea turtles while waves crash over you. Miléna did on Pea Beach, while Stefano and I wisely chose the role of amused and relaxed observers.
After picking up our car, we quickly drove back to the coast to witness our first colourful sunset on the Pacific horizon. Meanwhile, some Rapa Nui mosquitoes found a liking to my European blood. Later at home, we had the grand finale of fighting giant cockroaches. I felt beamed back to my times in the Philippines where giant spiders and cockroaches were my daily encounters (read about my one-year mission in the Philippines here). The only reassuring thought: at least there are no poisonous arachnids or reptiles on this island.
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