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What’s it Like to Travel in the Cook Islands?

Twelve years ago, I sat on my bed and began researching round-the-world tickets. I was toying with the idea of long-term travel and felt as though the entire world had suddenly opened up to me. I grabbed a pen and notepad, pulled up a map of the world, and began to scribble down a list of the destinations I most wanted to visit.

After weeks of research, the place I had placed right at the top of my wish list was the Cook Islands. From my research, it looked like paradise and I was desperate to visit.

It may have taken me over four years of full-time travel to get there, but man, was it worth the wait! Here’s what it’s like to travel in one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been.

The Arrival Process is Unexpectedly Easy

When I exited the airport in Rarotonga, I noticed a large Cook Islands mama greeting every passenger from my flight and welcoming them individually. I figured it was some kind of thing to do with the resorts — I was travelling on a tight budget — so I skirted past her.

Not so fast.

She ran after me and asked where I was staying. When I gave her the name of my hostel, she directed me to another mama a few metres away. She then walked me out into the car park and led me to a specific spot. Wait here for your transfer , she told me, and moments later, the owner of my hostel arrived.

It was all so easy and unexpected. No matter where you’re going to be staying on the island, the mamas will show you where to go.

It Can  be a Budget Destination

I’ve published an enormous guide on how to visit the Cook Islands on a budget so if, like me, you’re keen to save money, that blog post will show you it’s more than possible.

On Rarotonga, dorm rooms in hostels on the beach start from $20 a night, transportation with the local bus comes in at $5 per ride, or $25 for ten journeys, and you can grab a meal from a beach shack for around $10-15.

On Aitutaki, hostels don’t exist, so your best bet is a budget guesthouse. You can get these from $50 a night for a cute bungalow in a peaceful location. Transportation is easy here, with bikes available for free from most accommodation, or $7 a day if not. Lagoon tours will be your major expense, coming in at $50-70 for a full day out on the water, but it’s definitely worth the splurge.

I Didn’t Meet Another Solo Traveler While I Was There

I spent ten days in the Cook Islands, stayed in a dorm room in a hostel, and still didn’t meet another solo traveller.

There’s no doubt about it: this is a destination for families and honeymooners. In fact, the immigration arrival card even had options to tick if you were coming for a wedding or honeymoon! Even at the hostels, there were only backpacking couples on round-the-world trips or people opting for a cheaper honeymoon to hang out with.

Having said that, I didn’t struggle to meet people. The couples I hung out with on Rarotonga and Aitutaki were welcoming and happy for me to tag along with them, even if I felt as though I was totally intruding on their honeymoon. You’ll meet people in the Cook Islands as a solo traveller, but they’ll probably be a part of a couple.

Don’t Skip Rarotonga

When I was researching the Cook Islands, practically every article I came across online urged me to spend as little time on Rarotonga as possible, and as much on Aitutaki. I dutifully booked 48 hours on the island and five full nights on Aitutaki, but left feeling like I should have had more of an even split.

Because here’s the thing: Aitutaki’s lagoon is the most beautiful place I’ve ever visited, hands down. But the island itself wasn’t that amazing for me. The beaches weren’t great, you can cycle around the entire island in half a day, and there just wasn’t all that much to do. I ended up being bored in Aitutaki by the end of my stay, then returning to Rarotonga and wishing I had longer there.

So, don’t overlook Rarotonga. I mean, if you had to choose just one island, I’d say go to Aitutaki to see the lagoon, but if you have a week in the Cook Islands, go for a 4/3 day split.

Air Rarotonga is Crazy-Expensive

The only way to get from Rarotonga to Aitutaki is via Air Rarotonga, and the prices are high.

But there is a way to minimise the cost: book the second you decide you want to visit, because the prices will only increase the closer you get to your dates! I booked my flights less than two weeks before arriving and ended up paying $250 each way. For a thirty. minute. flight. A quick look at Air Rarotonga’s website shows me that prices drop the further out you book, with June and July offering $120 each way. Still crazy expensive, but much more affordable than a $500 round-trip!

The other alternative is to just turn up in Rarotonga, head to the Air Rarotonga office and book through them. There are reports of people getting fares for half the price by booking last-minute this way, but you do run the risk of their being no availability on any of the flights.

The Cook Islands Has the Best Coins Ever

Where else in the world will you find a country that has triangle- and wiggly-shaped coins? Nowhere!

You’ll pay for most things in New Zealand dollars in the Cook Islands, but when it comes to smaller purchases, you can use the kickass Cook Islands coins.

The Locals are Incredibly Friendly

I always say that the Taiwanese were the friendliest people I’ve met on my travels, but I think the Cook Islanders may have just knocked them off the top spot. Over and over again, I experienced such warmth from the locals I ran into.

When I was succumbing to heatstroke and struggling to walk, a Cook Islands mama pulled over on her scooter and offered me a free ride back to my hostel. When I arrived at a new guesthouse, I was welcomed with an enormous embrace. When I mentioned to my lagoon cruise tour guide that I hadn’t been up to the island viewpoint yet, he took an hour out of his day to scooter me to the top of Aitutaki and show me his favourite views. Everyone you pass calls out hello and it’s so wonderful.

There’s basically no crime on the islands and I felt so safe there, even as a solo woman wandering around at night.

You Can’t Skip the Lagoon Cruises in Aitutaki

I almost skipped the lagoon tour in Aitutaki, reasoning that being on a boat all day would make me seasick and snorkelling always gives me a headache and brings me out in a rash.

That would have been the biggest mistake of my travels, because oh my god, you have to see the lagoon. It’s the closest I’ve ever come to being in paradise. I wrote about my experience in depth in my article about Aitutaki .

Grocery Shopping Sucks

If you’re planning on saving money by cooking, expect to live off of crap food. In Aitutaki, especially, where cargo arrives only once every three months, expect to find rows of tinned food and bags of chips and candy, and little vegetables or fresh meat/fish.

If you want fresh food, you’ll either have to befriend a local or find out when the market runs and hit it up in the early hours of the day.

A small tin of baked beans was $5! Prices were high. I actually found it cheaper to eat out for dinner and grab some snacks from the grocery stores for lunch.

Expect to Spend Most of Your Time Offline

Free Wi-Fi does not exist in the Cook Islands.

I couldn’t find a free Internet connection anywhere.

Instead, you’ll have to either opt for the despicable Zenbu, who charges $10 per 100 mb. Or Vodafone Cook Islands — who are much better. It’s still ridiculously expensive — the priciest rates I’ve found anywhere in the world and every restaurant, cafe, and guesthouse uses one of those two providers. Most of the connections are barely usable, and if you can get online, prepare for speeds to be slllloooowwwwww.

In comparison, free Wi-Fi was everywhere I visited in French Polynesia, Tonga, and Fiji.

The best deal I found was at my guesthouse in Aitutaki: I booked it because the Booking listing said it had free Wi-Fi, then arrived to discover they charged $10 per 150 mb.

You can pick up a local SIM card for $25, but data rates still start at $10 per 1GB , valid for 7 days. Much better than using hotel Wi-Fi, but still very expensive.

But really, just plan to spend most of your time offline in the Cook Islands and relish in it! I’d been planning to work in the evenings on my trip, but instead worked my way through half a dozen books. I came away feeling far more relaxed than if I’d been trying to get blog posts written while I was there.

So, after setting such high expectations for the Cook Islands back when I was dreaming of travel, did it manage to meet them?

Hell yes. I loved my time there. The locals were so warm and friendly, travelling on a budget wasn’t horrendous, I doubt I’ll ever go anywhere as spectacular as Aitutaki, and I’m already plotting my return! If you’re looking for paradise, head to the Cook Islands. It’s amazing.

Have you been to the Cook Islands? What did you think? If not, would you want to visit?

Related Articles on the Cook Islands 💰 How to Travel the Cook Islands on a Budget (2023): It’s Possible! 🏝 You Have to Take a Lagoon Cruise in Aitutaki 🏖 How to Plan a Budget Trip to the South Pacific

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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93 comments.

I’ve been following along through your Facebook posts and every time you posted a photo I’d exclaim WOW! It looks absolutely stunning, can’t wait to read your post on how to travel there on a budget!

And it’s just as stunning as it looks in the photos! I don’t think I really believed a place could look like this until I made it there. It was like walking through a travel brochure :-)

It really is paradise… The color of the water, the palm trees, the friendly people and no Wifi;-). When planning my 5 month trip last year I also strongly considered going to the Cook Islands but eventually didn’t because it would be rainy season. But next time… definitely next time! Looking forward to reading you big budget post!

It was the middle of rainy season when I visited, but I didn’t get a single day of rain! And that was highly unusual — the locals were telling me about how that time last year, the streets were all flooded, so probably for the best you didn’t go then! :-)

Haha I am so happy to hear that;-P Makes me feel slightly better about choosing not to go last year. Next year;-)

Can’t get over those coins! They are so awesome! I can’t read anymore cos you’re making me jealous…. :P :)

Aren’t they? I have a small bag of triangle coins in my daypack, because I didn’t want to spend any of them!

Wow! I have always wanted to visit the Cook Islands. They look incredible and your post has only made me more determined to go. Really looking forward to reading your travel guide on the islands! http://Www.Lizzysprettythings.Co.Uk

So happy to hear that, Lizzy! It’s a special place :-)

Those colors are unreal!! Thanks for showing us all that the Cook Islands can be done on a budget!

I actually commented to one of my friends on my lagoon cruise that it felt like the islands had been photoshopped! It’s a seriously spectacular place and now has me obsessed with lagoons!

Before reading this post, the only other times I had heard of the Cook Islands was when reading some UN document or ratification treaty. Seriously! It looks gorgeous and the idea of not having internet makes it all the more interesting to me. Reminds me of Cuba, where I had a total facebook and internet detox for 22 days and my life was so much better! I am looking forward to read your next post on expenses, so I can start planning :)

I was really agitated about the lack of Internet at first, but then I accepted it and had the best time offline. I definitely needed a break :-)

Reading your blog and seeing your gorgeous photos makes me want to return to the Cook Islands! This time with hubby in tow. I went here as a solo backpacker in 1998 (I doubt its changed much) There was quite a few of us solo backpackers in the hostel. I loved the Cook’s but never made it to Aitutaki, it was too expensive and I had not long started my trip so didn’t want to blow the budget that early!

Oh, that’s amazing that you got to visit then — I’d imagine there are far more tourists now!

I was so excited to read this post and your thoughts on the Cook Islands after following along on Facebook and Instagram. What a PERFECT looking place. It makes me happy that the people are so friendly, too. Sucks about the Wi-Fi but nobody could complain too much for a place to switch off :) Looking forward to the budget post (literally think I only ever say/think that when reading your blog haha)!

Haha, thanks, Kirsten! That means a lot :-D

Thanks for sharing your gorgeous photos of the Cook Islands. We have many friends in Australia, I think I’m going to suggest the Cook Islands for our next meet-up, Looks breathtaking and relaxing (hard to admit, but sometimes no WiFi can be a blessing).

Oh, you should! Flights are cheap from Australia.

I live in Hawaii but you have me DYING to visit the South Pacific! Thank you so much for these write ups – they are an invaluable source. Off to save all my pennies… :)

I visited Hawaii for three weeks a few years back, and I was surprised by how different the Cook Islands and all of the other South Pacific islands I visited were to each other. There are definitely reasons to head to each one. And man, I want to head back to Hawaii! :-)

I definitely want to go there, it looks absolutely stunning. Someday!!

It’s totally worth it! :-)

Looks so beautiful! I have not been but my sister has (as a solo traveler) and she loved it.

Nice! Glad to hear of another solo traveller checking it out! I’m sure there are plenty that head there, but it’s so weird I didn’t meet any!

Wow, this really looks like the most beautiful place ever. I was actually considering going alone though and having a quick trip. now I think I should probably wait until I have a partner in crime to go with and make sure I can take plenty of time there.

Great tips and beautiful photography!

I didn’t find it too bad as a solo traveller, but now that I’ve been, I definitely want to return with Dave at some point in the future. Either way, I’m sure you’d love it! :-)

Enjoyed reading this…the Cook Islands are one of my favorite places in the world. Traveled there once solo and once as a couple and loved it both times. Since you are plotting a return as well, I recommend a visit to Atiu, if possible. A different vibe than Raro and Aitutaki but definitely worth it.

Definitely on my list! I wish I’d spent my entire three weeks in the South Pacific just in one country so that I could explore it in more depth. Next time! :-) I’ve heard amazing things about Atiu.

Beautiful pics. Looks unreal, like paradise! Sounds like you had a really great trip. I can’t believe people said your travels were dull. How bloody rude for a start! Your blog is by far my favourite, and most real, travel blog I read. As long as you’re enjoying what you do keep doing it! :D

Thank you so much, Emma! That means a lot to me :-D

I LOVE this post, Lauren! So much great info and gorgeous beach photos as always. I miss your pinnable image at the end though so I can save it for later :)

Haha, that was definitely due to laziness! I’ll get one up later on today :-)

Those photos! Each of them would make an awesome postcard! I’ve never even thought of traveling to the Cook Islands, they seemed to be just a tiny spot somewhere on the map in a vast ocean… Lauren, you are solely responsible for half of my travel bucket list ?

Yay!! That makes me so happy! Definitely put the Cook Islands right at the top of it :-D

Lovely image of the crystal-clear water. The Cook Islands definitely look like a lovely place to visit. While it’s a shame that the Internet is so expensive there, the good thing is that – as you said – it’s become a better setting to relax more.

It showed me that I should definitely take more breaks offline in the future — I managed to explore so much deeper than usual because of the lack of distractions.

Hi Lauren! I was intrigued by the ability to stay in the Cook Islands on a budget! I’m thinking of possibly planning a girls getaway with my best friend and my daughter who would be one or so at the time of travel, were there a lot of families with kids there?

Lots of families! It’s really kid friendly :-)

Who would expect a full read on tips when traveling to the Cook Islands! It looks beautiful– the white sandy beaches, blue shallow lagoons, and endless shorelines, this is a place that seems like one of the most scenic/picturesque places in the world. It also seems very isolated (I’ve never heard of it)..maybe that’s why groceries are so expensive!

Only a three hour flight from New Zealand or Australia, so not too isolated :-)

This makes me want to visit ASAP! I went to Bora Bora and Moorea last year and can’t wait to see your French Polynesia posts as well! Can’t wait for your budget post! Looking at flights now…. :)

It’s a beautiful part of the world, and now I’m already looking at flights to get back there! :-)

This has given me some serious wonderlust to get myself to the Cook Islands! I lived in New Zealand most of my life and somehow still have never made it!

Definitely the first place on my list whenever I make my way back over that side of the world!

And flights are so cheap from New Zealand as well! :-)

Thanks, this post and your Instagram are inspiring us to island-hop across the South Pacific on our way home from our career break. I love your photos of the sparkling blue sea!

How did you choose which island countries to visit? We’re considering Vanuatu, Fiji, the Cook Islands, Bora Bora, the Solomon Islands, and anywhere else where a gorgeous photo pops up on Instagram. We have to trim this list, but they all look beautiful!

I actually have a post about this scheduled for a few weeks’ time! After checking that there was budget accommodation available on Agoda, I chose based on flights. I knew I’d be starting from Auckland, so I calculated the cost of a flight to each of the countries I wanted to visit. I then picked the three cheapest places and calculated the cheapest place to fly to from there. And so on…

whoa…Um…hmmm…ummm. Whoa.

Did the restaurants offer fresh fish? They must have, right? Befriending locals is always the ideal, but sometimes one simply wants to have a relaxing evening rather than hunt down a new friend to share a fish BBQ.

What were the prices like for that?

Yep, lots of fresh fish dishes in the restaurants! For dinners, you’d be looking at around $20-30 per dish at a nice place, but there are shacks in Rarotonga where you can grab an enormous fish sandwich for $10.

Beautiful Pictures!! Looks like an amazing place to relax in Holiday trip. Thanks for Sharing information about Cook Islands

Welcome! :-)

Wow ..! You looking so pretty! those are all beach photos are awesome.i hope you very Fun of it on traveling.I love your it’s really great.

Really awesome place Lauren!

Your post and pictures are grab my eyes. What a place greenly location, wonderful beach and your budget guides. Really impressing me to make a visit to Cook Island.

Thanks for sharing a nice post with cool and attractive images.

It’s a beautiful country! :-)

I thought that the only island where we can find the giant animals was the galapagos islands, but I can see that there is much more to discover.

Definitely! :-)

The Cook Islands look gorgeous! There are simply too many beautiful islands in the world to check them all out, but I think I’ll make the Cook Islands a must when I ever get around to visiting New Zealand!

Definitely do! Flights are really cheap from Auckland :-)

A couple of friends are there at the moment, and I must admit that seeing their photos and your post has made me a bit jealous. It looks like paradise x

It’s a special place! :-)

Can I afford to travel around for 3 months with a budget of $7000? I d like to quit my job and see the world. Is it possible?

Absolutely! You can easily do so on that budget. Stick to cheaper regions of the world (Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia and South Asia, Central America), stay in guesthouses, and travel overland as much as possible :-)

$7,000 for three months!!! You could travel way over a year on that. I’ve spent 20 years on the road, even got paid to travel on private super yachts.

Just show up wherever you want to be– and make it happen. You’ll meet other travelers, find cheap places. It always works. I’ve had little jobs all over the world too, like running hotel cabanas in the amazon, to renting out berther spots on boats in Amsterdam. I get 5 travelers a day to rent cheap rooms, I get free room and board. It’s doable, if you just do it!!!!

I’m a solo female traveler, and picked up 5 languages along the way. Like they say: Not all who wander are lost.

This, too ^

Looks absolutely incredible. I had heard rumours that there are no decent budget accommodation options on the Cook Islands – how did you find the hostels? Any you would recommend?

Yes! I linked out to the places I stayed at here: https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/how-to-travel-the-cook-islands-on-a-budget-its-possible/

I love your blog! I will be travelling to Cooks Island next year and have been researching by reading blogs. I love your favorite spot in Raro. Where exactly is that?

If you’re coming from the south, it’s just before where the planes come in and jet blast you.

I really love travelling. Especially going to Islands like this. The pictures of Cook Islands are very beautiful. They make me want to go there right now. I just see the pictures but I can image that Cook island is a paradise. Thanks for your post.

No problem! The Cook Islands really are spectacular!

Amazing photos! What time of the year did you visit?

Late-January/early-February

Oh my gosh, i was origanally born there and i spent 10 years on that island, but than i moved to China and it’s been like 4 years and i was on pinterest just scrolling through some picks and i came across Cook Island and when i accidentally pressed the site instead of the pic it led me here, I was going all crazy when i was reading the comments and i was like ‘Hoho, i came from there’ and i’ve always wanted to visit……..still waiting ;P

Oh and did you go to the Sailing club? And the Rrotonga resurant, oh oh oh and the market? Did you stroll through the town too? Haha sorry i’m getting really pumped up, but yea i was a sailer and my older sister too, she was in Gold fleet and i was ALMOST in Gold fleet but yea, i’m so happy you enjoyed your trip there :)

I hate any kind of traveler blogs or posts! But what I’ve just read was so awesome and helpfull! Thank you!

Thank you! Not all travel blogs are bad ;-)

So true! Visited Cook Islands last year and had the chance to meet a couple of solo travelers like myself. Contradicting to myself, they pointed out was lucky that my first visit I met fellow solo backpackers. During the time, seen more couple and families. Yet i would recommend it for solo visitors. Why not? It’s a lovely place.

Exactly! It’s so beautiful that even if you don’t make a ton of friends, it’s still worth visiting.

Thank you very much for visiting my home island Aitutaki. I only visit every 2-4years now since my maternal grandparents passed on. Before then I was there twice a year. It is very expensive to travel there and now that I only visit every 2-4yrs it has allowed me more time and money to travel to other parts of the globe. But will be visiting January 2020 for family reunion. Can’t wait to see my family!

Hi Lauren, great blog! I’m actually thinking to go there but I’m just a backpacker. So it would be interesting how long I should stay there and what do you think how much money I’ll need. Cheers

reall good blog helped me with a report

Happy to have helped!

I am just 2 weeks away from our Rarotonga/Aitutaki visit and your storey telling was fantastic, we were there 10 years ago with tekking and it was just as amazing. Thanks for getting me so excited for what is coming soon.

Great blog! I am going to the Cook Islands in June as a solo traveller after being inspired by your blog. Where did you take the 4th photo (your favorite viewpoint)?

Thanks, and look forward to hearing more about your trips!

Hi Lauren, I am going to Rarotonga in just under 5 weeks from now, and just came across your helpful blog. I was wondering if you saw any big creepy spiders or snakes or anything else like that on the island? I am deathly afraid of spiders so anything you can tell me would help :-)

Nope! I didn’t see a single spider or snake or anything like that while I was there :-)

I would move to Raro today if i could. My favorite place on earth. Agreed about Aitutaki, nice, but Raro is better.

It’s the definition of paradise! And a pretty spectacular place to live :-)

We spent a week on Roratonga and only a day on Aitutaki… I knew as soon as we arrived we should stay longer! However, we have been blessed to have traveled through many parts of the world and many islands. The Cook Islands will be definately visit for me again. The people, the scenery and environment were so welcoming and relaxing. Time did not matter there – unless you waiting until the late afternoon to stop and most shops and they were closed. But the beach never closed and the snorkeling was top notch. We snorkelers for hours and didnt have to deal with the tide pulling you around and predators looking for you. Since the large reef was about 400 meters off the beach and fully encircled Roratonga,, you were safe from large predators and currents. We found eating out was often cheaper than cooking – but, we often got a coconut for breakfast and it filled us easily until lunch or later. Coconuts were free and fell all over the place. We are already planning our trip and will stay in anAirbnb again to save a few bucks.

Thank you for a detailed, impressive guide! Saved your post for the future for when I make it to the Cook Islands 🙂

Thank you for sharing. I’ve wanted to visit there for many years. In pictures it looks like the most beautiful place on Earth.

You have described the Cook Islands down to a tee, we when we discovered the Cook’s we fell in love with it, so much so that we have been going for the last five years in a row and Covid put a stop to our sixth visit in a row. But we are planning to go when the borders come down. It is truly heaven on earth, we have visited Aitutaki four times now and the colours of the water need to be seen to be believed. The people are very friendly and there are multitude of things that you can do, from dining at divine restaraunts to Island nights, Muri lagoon cruises. You can do as much as you want to do all the way to the other end of the spectrum in not doing anything and just chill out and go for a swim, have a drink to cool down and repeat repeat and repeat again. Anyone who is reading this do not procrastinate as you will never get there, if you think of going Just Do It as the add goes and you will not be disappointed, your only reaction will be “why didn’t I do it earlier”. All the best.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

17 things you need to know before going to the Cook Islands

Jan 24, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips on things to know before you go can help you plan the perfect trip to the Cook Islands © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Scattered and remote in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands are a taste of tropical perfection.

At 3234km (2009 miles) from the nearest major landmass, this is a far-flung destination for most travelers. But if you make it all the way here, you'll discover that this is a straightforward place to visit. The Cook Islanders are famously welcoming and friendly, English is widely spoken, and you'll find an easygoing mix of 21st-century sophistication and traditional Polynesian values.

Framed by the wild blue expanse of the planet’s biggest ocean, these isolated isles are one of the world's great getaways. The secret to a successful trip to the Cook Islands is to do some prep ahead of time. Here are some pre-departure tips to help you plan your time in this fascinating island nation.

1. Keep an eye on the weather in the South Pacific

The Cook Islands are warm year-round, but some seasons are better for travel than others. With drier weather and lower humidity, May to October is a great time to visit . From November to April, the weather is warmer but also wetter – however, rain showers are often short and sharp, clearing after a sudden downpour to a blue sky. December to January is the cyclone season – storms can bring heavy rain and strong winds, but the islands are not severely impacted every year.

2. Check your dates ahead of South Pacific time travel

Traveling to Rarotonga from New Zealand , flights cross the international date line, arriving in the Cook Islands on the previous day. Double-check accommodation to ensure you've booked the correct dates. Similarly, traveling back from Rarotonga to New Zealand, travelers lose a day, and arrive in Auckland the day after they departed.

3. There aren't many direct flight options

Rarotonga is linked by direct flights to Auckland, Sydney, Honolulu and Tahiti, with  Air New Zealand 's service from Auckland to Rarotonga being the only daily international option.

Once you reach Rarotonga, things get easier – Air Rarotonga , the Cooks’ national airline, has regular flights from Rarotonga to the country's Pa Enua (Outer Islands), including the popular islands of Aitutaki and ‘Atiu.

4. Avoid the Australian and Kiwi school holidays

The Cook Islands, especially Rarotonga, get very busy with vacationing families during New Zealand's and Australia's school holidays, putting pressure on prices and availability for accommodations and flights. These breaks usually fall in the two weeks following Easter, the first two weeks in July, and the first few weeks in October. The dates move slightly each year, so check the timings on New Zealand's Ministry of Education website and the education websites for Australia's different states.

Cook Islanders living in New Zealand often visit family in the islands for Christmas and New Year, and also for the annual celebrations leading up to the islands’ Constitution Day on August 4. Prices for accommodations and airfares usually increase around this time too.

5. Fresh local produce makes self-catering accommodation a good choice

Rarotonga and Aitutaki both offer all-inclusive resort accommodations, but consider renting a self-contained holiday house or beachside bungalow. Having your own fully-equipped kitchen and barbecue facilities increases the options for self-catering, and it's easy to buy local fish and pick up fresh vegetables and fruit from Rarotonga's Saturday morning Punanga Nui market. There are also well-stocked supermarkets on Rarotonga, but goods imported from New Zealand and other far-flung places can be expensive. Camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands, but there are a couple of hostels in Rarotonga for budget travelers. 

6. Get a phone SIM on arrival for cheaper net access

Free internet access is hard to find on the Cook Islands, but Vodafone Cook Islands offers wi-fi hot spots around Rarotonga and Aitutaki that can be accessed for a reasonable cost via prepaid vouchers. Vodafone also sells a Travel eSIM package incorporating 10GB of data, 30 minutes of international calling and 300 TXTs. Vouchers and Travel SIMs are both available from Vodafone's booth at Rarotonga airport.

7. Take a credit card and carry some New Zealand dollars

New Zealand dollars are the primary currency in the Cook Islands and bills can be withdrawn from ATMs on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Most accommodations, rental car companies and tour operators accept credit cards, but cash is essential for smaller shops and at the Punanga Nui market and Muri night markets, so carry some dollars for day-to-day use.

Change is usually given in the Cook Islands’ own coins, including the quirky triangular $2 coin. These coins can't be used as legal tender back in New Zealand, but they do make excellent souvenirs of a visit to the islands. Neither tipping nor bargaining are part of Cook Islands’ culture, and prices are fixed everywhere.

8. Sunday is a day of rest in the Cooks

In the Cook Islands, Sunday is a quiet day, most often spent with family and attending church. Many shops and businesses close for some or all of the day. If you fancy attending a Cook Islands church service, visitors are warmly welcomed. Expect to be invited to join the local congregation for refreshments at the conclusion of the service.

9. Pack casual clothes 

There's no need to pack your finest threads – the dress code in the Cook Islands is casual, and shorts, a T-shirt, and sandals or flip flops will be fine for most occasions. If you're attending church on Sunday, a collared shirt, and long trousers or a skirt are the right attire for this more formal occasion.

Lightweight hiking shoes are recommended for tackling Rarotonga's Cross-Island Track, while essentials for exploring the lagoons and beaches include reef shoes – to protect from coral cuts and the occasional stonefish – and a rash vest to keep off the tropical sun. Hats and sunglasses are also strongly recommended. Bring a long-sleeved linen shirt and trousers to guard against insect bites in the evenings.

10. Dress modestly away from the water

The Cook Islanders are a famously friendly bunch, but despite the laid-back mood, the islands are quite socially conservative, and it's not appropriate to wear beachwear away from the resort pool or lagoon. A sarong is a handy addition to a packing list to wear after swimming to avoid causing offense.

11. Learn greetings in the local language

All Cook Islanders speak excellent English, but when meeting a local, the most common greeting is kia orana – “may you live a long and fulfilling life” in Cook Islands Māori. Saying meitaki (“thank you”) is also always appreciated.

12. Slip into island time

The Cook Islands definitely operate on island time. If you're catching up with someone for coffee or a meal, it's not unknown for people to drift in a little after the time you arranged to meet. If your guests have still to arrive after 15 minutes, that's no cause for concern; just relax and enjoy Rarotonga's easygoing vibe. An exception is if you're being picked up by a tour operator, or have booked an island activity at a specific time and place; you'll be expected to be on time for these appointments.

13. Lock your car doors

In general, the Cook Islands are very safe, but opportunistic theft from rental cars parked up at beaches or other tourist spots is not unknown. Don't leave valuable items such as cameras, tablets and smartphones in the car when swimming or hiking.

14. Practice scooter safety

Renting a scooter is a popular way to get around, but it's worth checking your travel insurance to confirm you're covered for any accidents. Wearing a helmet is compulsory, vehicles drive on the left, and you'll need to complete a practical riding test – basically a series of tightish turns in a police station car park – to secure a Cook Islands’ scooter license allowing you to hire a vehicle.

Driving licenses from most countries can be used to rent a car without this extra requirement. Note that island roads are not well lit, and riding a scooter after dark is not recommended due to the antics of wandering chickens and the occasional over-excited dog.

15. Check local currents before jumping in the water

Always ask a local if the water is safe before you go swimming, as some parts of Rarotonga's lagoon have strong currents, particularly near the Rutaki, Papua and Avaavaroa passages. Rarotonga is also susceptible to tsunamis following volcanic and seismic activity elsewhere in the South Pacific – if warning sirens sound, follow everyone else and evacuate to higher ground. Evacuation routes are indicated by signs all around the island.

16. Protect yourself from dengue fever

While there is no malaria on the islands, dengue fever is also transferred by mosquitoes and it's present on Rarotonga – the last big outbreak was in 2021. There's no vaccine or prophylaxis for the virus so be sure to apply insect repellent and keep your accommodations insect-proof using door and window screens. If you are unlucky enough to catch dengue, seek medical attention, as the hemorrhagic form of the illness can be serious.

17. Look after your ears

The combination of frequent swimming and a humid tropical climate can give rise to “swimmer's ear” and other infections of the outer ear canal. Always dry your ears carefully after swimming, and pack ear drops in a compact first-aid kit.

This article was first published Apr 12, 2022 and updated Jan 24, 2024.

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10 Best Tours in the Cook Islands [2024]

Explore the islands and lagoons of rarotonga, aitutaki and beyond on the best tours in the cook islands.

Don’t just rent a car or a scooter and hope for the best. Make sure you hit all of the highlights, as well as discover some real hidden gems, on one of the amazing tours in the Cook Islands . From off-roading in the mountains of Rarotonga to cruising the lagoon in Aitutaki to exploring caves on one of the outer islands, the Cook Islands offers an eclectic selection of guided tours to help you truly experience this Pacific paradise. Discover some of the top recommended in this list of best tours in the Cook Islands.

1. Ariki Adventures, Rarotonga

When it comes to getting out on the water, which is kind of a must-do on Rarotonga, Ariki Adventures have a pretty awesome tour menu. Their “ Turtle Sea Scooter Safari “, a two-hour experience zooming alongside sea turtles with electric sea scooters, is an effortless way to see these majestic creatures. They also offer “ Lagoon Discovery Sea Scooter Safari ” snorkelling in the lagoon, while their “ Shipwreck Sea Scooter Safari ” allows you to experience the Matai Shipwreck underwater.

Learn more about their tours and book your trip on Viator  or  Tripadvisor . Plus, see how their snorkelling tours compare to the   10 Best Snorkelling Tours in the Cook Islands and learn about Ariki Adventures’ paddleboarding tours in the 6 Best Paddleboard Tours & Hires in the Cook Islands .

2. Cook Islands Tours, Rarotonga

The locally owned and operated  Cook Islands Tours  offers a few popular tours of Rarotonga, more famously their “ Progressive Dinner Tour “, but if you want to see more of the island, do their “ Orientation & Sightseeing Tour “. Their 2h30mins tour is a must for first-time visitors, pointing out some excellent places to eat on the island, interesting activities to do, as well as stopping by some cultural attractions that you can tick off the list, such as  Black Rock  and the  Rarotonga Brewery .

Find out more about the tours, check out reviews and book tours on Viator or Tripadvisor . Alternatively, Cook Islands Tours offers a sightseeing “ Avarua Historical Walking Tour “, which you can find out more about in the 8 Best Guided Walks in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

3. Teking Lagoon Cruises, Aitutaki

When it comes to lagoon cruises, nothing compares to those on the Aitutaki Lagoon . One of the top choices for touring the lagoon and its “motu”,  Teking Lagoon Cruises offers a small-group tour, visiting four of the lagoon’s islands and three vibrant snorkelling spots where the focus on ecology and conservation allows you to get more out of the experience. Tours are approximately five hours and include an island barbecue lunch. Private charters and two-hour sunset tours with Champagne are also available.

Compare this lagoon cruise with others in the 10 Best Lagoon Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

4. Koka Lagoon Cruises, Rarotonga

For some fun on the lagoon of Rarotonga, take a tour with Koka Lagoon Cruises . The half-day cruise from  Muri Beach  includes snorkelling at the  Tikioki Marine Reserve  where you’ll be free to swim among the giant clams, angelfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish and much more. After snorkelling, the cruise on the glass-bottom boat crosses the  Muri Lagoon  to the uninhabited  Motu Koromiri  for a barbecue lunch combined with a fun yet informative coconut and sarong-tying show. The ukulele band entertains throughout the experience.

Check out reviews and book tickets with Koka Lagoon Cruises on Viator or Tripadvisor .  Plus, see how the cruise compares to the  10 Best Tours of Rarotonga .

5. Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours, Rarotonga

An alternative way to tour the Cook Islands is on land via bike with  Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours . They have bikes for all ages, so there’s no excuse not to join them on their “ Discover ” tour suited to beginner cyclists or their “ Explore ” tour for the more experienced. Cycle past quaint villages, learn about the history along the old  Ara Metua  coral road, and stop for tastings of local fruit discovered along the way. Whichever of the two tours you choose, your experience with conclude with a delicious local lunch.

Learn more about Storytellers on Viator  and  Tripadvisor . Storytellers also operate walking tours, which you can learn more about in the 8 Best Guided Walks in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

6. Raro Safari Tours, Rarotonga

Jump in a characterful safari Jeep and hit the coast road, back roads and dirt roads of Rarotonga with  Raro Safari Tours . This three-hour tour incorporates history and culture as you traverse the inland road seeking out historical sites, visiting plantations and – the highlight – racing up the dirt tracks of an inland mountain to a spectacular viewpoint of  Te Rua Manga , a.k.a.  The Needle . The tour also includes a stop at  Papua Waterfall  ( Wigmore’s Waterfall ), a buffet lunch and lots of humour!

See more tours like this in the 10 Best Sightseeing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

7. Birdman George Eco Tours, Atiu

The Cook Islands Maori name for Atiu is “ Enuamanu “, meaning the “land of birds” so it would almost be a crime to not join a tour to scout out the colourful kura or rare kakerori of this outer island! Luckily, “ Birdman George ” is here to tremendously increase your chances of seeing the island’s wonderful birds. Not only will George point out birds that he has been looking after on this island since he was first employed to bring back the kakerori when they were on the brink of extinction, but he’ll also point out all sorts of interesting Atiuan plants and explain their medicinal uses. The finale is at a picturesque beach where George will serve a tropical spread. The tour lasts four to five hours and transfers are included.

See more tours like Birdman George’s in the  10 Best Eco Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands , as well as more tours on Atiu listed in the  5 Best Tours on Atiu .

8. Raro Reef Sub, Rarotonga

A water tour with a difference, cruise to the deep outer reef of Rarotonga with Raro Reef Sub . Look out for large pelagic fish, turtles, sharks and even  whales  in this semi-submersible vessel. The 1h25mins-1h30mins tour takes you around the  RMS Maitai shipwreck and to places that are otherwise a challenge to get to. If that wasn’t enough, a percentage of the trip goes toward local conservation! Tours depart from the Avatiu Harbour  ( Avarua ), Sunday to Friday, three to four times a day if the weather allows.

See more experiences like this in the 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

9. Tuatini Cave Tour, Mangaia

For those feeling more adventurous, cave tours are a highlight of the outer islands of Mangaia , Atiu , Mitiaro and Mauke ! Tuatini Cave on the oldest island of the Cook Islands, Mangaia , is what many believe is the grandest cave in the Cooks. It is also extensive and largely untouched, characterised by magnificent stalagmites, stalactites and crystalline floors, walls and ceilings. The local guides will show you a vast amount of the cave, tell stories of their ancestors (showing you cooking instruments and fish hooks that remain) and point out prehistoric crabs that now live here. Tours of the cave alone last approximately two hours. Island tours including visiting the cave are sometimes an option.

Learn about how to organise cave tours, as well as see more caves to visit, in the  10 Best Caves in the Cook Islands and  15 Best Things to Do on Mangaia .

10. Raro Buggy Tours and Raro Quad Tours, Rarotonga

Finally, do the driving yourself on an exciting off-roading tour with  Raro Buggy Tours  or  Raro Quad Tours . The main difference is that one tour is in two-seater 4×4 buggies lasting 1h30mins to 2 hours and the other is on quad bikes lasting from 2h30mins to 3 hours. Either way, you’ll start off getting accustomed to your vehicle and following your guide to historical sites before hitting the muddy tracks and plantations on your way to the  Papua Waterfall  ( Wigmore’s Waterfall ).

Learn more about the tour and others similar in the   5 Best Off-Road Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

More About Tours in the Cook Islands

Now that you are aware of the diversity of the Cook Islands’ best tours, check out more tour options listed in the articles below:

• 10 Best Sightseeing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
• 10 Best Island-Hopping Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
• 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

Finally, check out all of the Cook Islands’ activities in our epic 101 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands .

This article was reviewed and published by Robin, the co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. He has lived, worked and travelled across 16 different countries before settling in the South Pacific, so he knows a thing or two about planning the perfect trip in this corner of the world. Robin works and consults regularly with Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, a local government body representing the tourism industry. Robin is also the co-founder of several other South Pacific travel guides and is a regular host of webinars with the South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

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Cook Islands Tourism

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Content [ ]

Cook Islands Tourism posts videos about the experience of Cook Islands, with major events in certain islands or locations.

Besides exploration, they create their own project called "Ridge 2 Reef," which is a series about Environment and Protecting Areas. [1]

History [ ]

The channel was created on March 10, 2011 and uploaded their first video on June 16, 2015.

• During COVID-19 pandemic, it is still open to visit Cook Islands since it's considered to be quarantine-free. [2]
• Their country, Cook Islands was featured in The Morning Show, which is about Jetstar getting their first flight to go Cook Islands. [3]

References [ ]

• ↑ https://www.ridge2reeftrust.org/
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S7DlS4pbuY&t=1s
• ↑ https://newsroom.jetstar.com/jetstar-becomes-the-first-australian-airline-to-fly-direct-to-the-cook-islands-in-over-30-years/
• 2 Muntasir Billah Mahdi
• 3 Daniel Larson