Easter Island is a volcanic speck lost in a vast, empty region of the South Pacific midway between Chile and Tahiti. Renowned for its 887 colossal stone statues, or moai, it is a source of wonder to archaeologists and inquisitive travelers alike. Just what caused the collapse of the original civilization is a matter of continuing debate: Environmental degradation, endemic cannibalism and overpopulation with the consequent depletion of resources all have their academic proponents. Today, the island’s inhabitants prefer to use the traditional Polynesian name of Rapa Nui. The principal activity is hiking to the island’s numerous archaeological sites.