There is no place quite like the Cook Island's. The locals are friendly, the beaches, lagoons, mountains and forests are pristine and there's countless dining and outdoor adventure experiences. Its not hard to love this little paradise in the heart of the Pacific Islands!
The Punanga Nui Markets is an experience not to be missed and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals. Held every Saturday by the waterfront in Avarua on Rarotonga, it is one of the biggest social events of the week. Wander through market stalls and shop for highly sought after black pearls, ukuleles and colourful pareo’s (sarongs). Try homemade delicacies and recharge with a coffee and a delicious coconut bun. Head over to the main stage and enjoy the live entertainment.
No holiday to the Cook Islands would be complete without experiencing the stunning lagoons. A cruise on Muri Lagoon, Rarotonga is a must. Snorkel or take a glass bottom boat tour to discover colourful marine life and afterwards enjoy a delicious barbecue seafood lunch. Aitutaki, ‘a little paradise’, consists of 15 secluded motus (islets) sprinkled across the vast turquoise lagoon. Cruise to One Foot Island and get your passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office.
A highlight of any visit to the Cook Islands is an Island Night Cultural show, where history and traditions are shared through music, song and dance. Held at a variety of resorts and cultural centres on Rarotonga and Aitutaki, these nights are often combined with a traditional Cook Islands fest (umu kai) where you can sample local dishes like Ita Mata (marinated raw fish salad). Marvel at the skills of the fire dancers and watch singers and dancers swing their hips to the beat of island drums. It is great fun for the whole family especially when the audience participates in the traditional dance moves.
Rarotonga is paradise for nature loves with walk that cross the island and take you off the beaten track. One of the most popular is the Cross Island Trek where you hike from the north coast over the mountainous interior and down to the south coast. Be rewarded with amazing view from the Needle (Te Rua Manga) and cool off at Wigmore’s waterfall. Other walking tracks include Raemaru Trek, Takuvaine Valley Trail and Avana Valley Track. Most of the walks are sign posted and have different degrees of difficulty.
With circumference of just 32 kilometres, it’s easy to circle Rarotonga on wheels. With no traffic lights on the island, hiring a car, motor scooter or electric bike is a popular way to explore at your own pace. Adventure seekers will love getting off the beaten track with a buggy or quad bike tour. Travel across muddy, rocky terrains and through streams as you head into the jungle. Take to the mountains on a 4WD inland safari and discover ancient maraes and palaces. It is a great way to experience another side of island life!
In Aitutaki, the lagoon takes centre stage. A vast expanse of crystal clear water scattered with uninhabited white sands islets that frame the palm-fringed main island. It’s arguably the most idyllic lagoon in the world. For those who like their own patch of paradise, hire a canoe and paddle out to the nearest motu for a picnic on your very own stretch of beach.
Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise: The highlight of Aitutaki is its lagoon, and a visit is not complete without a fun-filled day cruising this spectacular wonder. Explore the incredible marine life while snorkelling and swimming. The lagoon tour includes a barbeque fish lunch on One Foot Island and visit some of the other small islands within the lagoon. Don’t forget to take your passport for an official One Foot Island stamp from the only post office on an uninhabited island. Price guide $113 per adult.
