Four days gives you time for the main moai sites and Rano Kau volcano without rushing. Two days works if you're tight on time, though you'll only hit the highlights. Many visitors add a third or fourth day to include the birdman quest tour and have breathing room between activities.

Private guides here aren't a luxury - they're practical. The island's archaeology is genuinely complex (moai construction techniques, ceremonial sites, volcanic quarries), and a good guide transforms scattered ruins into a coherent story. You'll also avoid the larger group tours that cluster at each site.

October to April is warm and has longer daylight for full-day tours. July-August brings cooler, windier weather but fewer tourists. Check before you go, as seasonal rainfall and occasional volcanic activity can affect specific tour availability.

Most tours include vehicle transport from your accommodation. The village itself is small and walkable, but reaching moai sites scattered across the island requires a driver - renting a car solo is possible, though guides will give you context you'd miss alone.

Yes. Several 8-day itineraries bundle Easter Island with Patagonia, so you can see both moai and glaciers in one trip. These typically include 4-5 days here plus flights and accommodation.

Most full-day private tours cover vehicle, guide, and site access - check before booking whether meals or park entry fees are added. Shorter half-day tours are lighter, usually just the guide and transport.

Full-day hiking tours (like the Rano Kau volcano walk) involve rough terrain. Half-day private tours and shorter discoveries work better if you have energy limits. Check tour details before booking, as accessibility varies by site.