The National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) is a civil law entity dependent
on the Ministry of Agriculture, whose main task is to administer Chile's
forestry policy and promote the development of the sector [1].
Anakena in 1990
In 1990 there were hardly any rangers to be seen, especially at the
remoter parts of the island. Paths were running across archeological sites. And
there were hardly any signs stopping you from climbing the ahu or other parts.
Here you see my Japanese friend Toshiyuki, who is on top of one of the
ceremonial houses at Orongo. I’ve been there, too. Other persons are also
there. And the hotel owner dog is accompanying us. Moreover, we were not trespassing;
the path was laid out on top of these buildings. Unbelievable, but true! The
impact of 5000 visitors must have been meager, but with 100,000 visitors per
year it is different. So CONAF changed a few things. They keep visitors off the
ahu, well away from other archeological attractions. They’ve put off stop signs
and/or lines, which shouldn’t be crossed. I’d say adequate measures.
CONAF imposes an entry fee of 80 US$ for visiting all the sites for five
days, which is about the upper end of people staying on the island. The ticket
is stamped at each site. Now, what about bad weather. If you want to visit the
specific site a second time, you might be denied entrance. This is something
that should change. Maybe the rangers shouldn’t stamp the tickets during pouring
rain.
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