Anna’s Wild Adventure in Chile: From Birdmen to Mountains

Anna’s adventure in Chile was nothing short of unforgettable. My journey began on the mystical Easter Island, where I became completely immersed in the ancient culture of the Rapa Nui people. One tradition in particular captured her imagination: the Birdman competition, or Tangata Manu. This ritual once determined the spiritual leader of the island through a daring contest of strength, courage, and endurance. Competitors would leap from towering cliffs, swim through shark-infested waters to the tiny islet of Motu Nui, retrieve the first bird egg of the season, and return it unbroken. As I learned the legend, she imagined what it must have felt like to stand on those cliffs and look out over the waves with so much at stake.

So inspired by the story, I created a picture of my travel group standing triumphantly on Birdman Island — a playful but heartfelt tribute to the spirit of the competition. To bring the moment to life even further, she recorded an audio piece where I narrated the event as if I were watching it live.

After soaking in the culture and myth of Easter Island, my journey took her to the rugged beauty of the Chilean mountains. The landscape changed, but her sense of wonder remained. Among the high peaks and icy air, I couldn’t resist going into the crystal-clear mountain waters. The chill hit my bones instantly, but it was worth every shiver. I found myself thinking how magical it would be to explore those waters by boat. I imagined little vessels gliding between peaks and secret coves, adding even more freedom to the already breathtaking setting.

To document this part of my adventure, I created a “Day in My Life” video — a visual diary of my time in the mountains.

Looking back, my trip to Chile wasn’t just about the places I visited. It was about the stories I uncovered, the challenges she embraced, and the joy I found in the unknown!