Easter Island received its first group of tourists on 4 August, after the island was closed off for more than two years due to the Covid pandemic.
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Mataveri International Airport in Easter Island as the first flight arrives on 4 August after its borders were closed for more than two years. Picture: Rapa Nui Municipality
Easter Island is situated some 3 000 km off the coast of Chile, famous for its large stone statues – almost a thousand carved heads from centuries ago – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The island prolonged reopening its borders, citing concerns over keeping its residents safe. There are now flights between Santiago and the island every Thursday and Saturday with Chilean-based airline, Latam, hoping to add more.
Visitors to the island must be fully vaccinated and present a negative PCR test taken no longer than 24 hours before boarding a domestic flight to the island. Tourists aboard an international flight must take an antigen test upon arrival. Visitors may not stay longer than 30 days on the island.
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