The 15 islands of the Cooks lie halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii in the centre of the Pacific Ocean’s Polynesian Triangle. A mix of volcanic islands and coral atolls, the Cooks are a castaway’s paradise with deserted powder-white beaches fringed with swaying palms and warm, translucent lagoons teeming with marine life.
Rarotonga is the beating heart and hub of the Cooks, and while it may be the island most up to speed with the modern world, it still retains a traditional Polynesian charm. Just over 20 miles in circumference it’s stunningly picturesque with no traffic lights, no McDonald’s and no building taller than a coconut tree. For an insight to island life, hire a scooter, car or bicycle and explore, or hop on the island bus - whichever way you...
There’s never a bad time to visit, with a warm tropical climate all year round. June to August are slightly cooler months, November to March marks the warmer season, with occasional tropical showers. The drier months are from April to November, while the warmer, more humid and damp season is from December to March.
Rarotonga is approximately 25 hours from the UK (via Los Angeles). Aitutaki is around 45 minutes' flight from Rarotonga Recommended airlines flying to Rarotonga: Air New Zealand; British Airways; Virgin Atlantic.
New Zealand dollar, along with local notes and coins.
Showing 4 experiences in Cook Islands
Make your own way to Trader Jacks in Avarua to join a 90 minute informative walking tour. This leisurely paced tour, in the company of a knowledgeable guide, traces the Cook Islands history from the Polynesian settlement of Rarotonga to the discovery and colonisation by New Zealand, the missionaries and through to independence.
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This tour begins with the preparation and covering of the seafood umu (earth oven) on the beach, whilst the Reefman tells you how the Cook Islanders use this area as a food supply. Weather and tide permitting, you’ll spend some time fishing with a bamboo rod along the reef edge (all catches are released) and then time to swim and freshen up before the umu is lifted for your kaikai (meal). Enjoy some storytelling, demonstrations on how to prepare iconic local seafood, beach hat weaving and more.
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This 4 hour tour is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover Rarotonga’s protected lagoons. Cruise aboard a glass-bottom boat over Muri Lagoon to the marine reserve for some awesome snorkelling with giant clams and colourful tropical fish. Feed the fish before heading to Motu Koromiri for a Raro style fresh fish BBQ whilst you’re entertained by the crew.
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This fantastic half day tour takes you to Muri Lagoon where you can snorkel amongst the lagoon life or watch from the comfort of the glass-bottom boat. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy entertainment from the friendly crew and feast on a delicious fish BBQ on Koromiri islet. A portion of your tour cost goes to a marine conservation fund.
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