Cook Islands Travel Information

Located in the heart of the South Pacific, the Cook Islands offer a unique blend of Polynesian culture, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here are the top 10 things to do in the Cook Islands:

1. Explore the Capital, Avarua

Avarua, the capital of the Cook Islands, is a charming town with a mix of colonial architecture, local markets, and cultural attractions.

2. Relax on the Beaches

The Cook Islands boast some of the most beautiful and serene beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters, white sands, and lush tropical surroundings.

3. Visit the Ancient Marae

The Cook Islands are home to a rich cultural heritage, including the ancient marae, sacred places used for ceremonies and gatherings.

4. Snorkel and Dive the Coral Reefs

The Cook Islands are surrounded by a coral reef system, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the colorful marine life.

5. Hike the Mountains

The Cook Islands offer scenic hiking trails, leading through lush tropical forests, up to stunning panoramic views.

6. Attend a Cultural Performance

The Cook Islands are renowned for their traditional dances, music, and cultural events, offering a unique glimpse into Polynesian culture.

7. Visit the Natural Reserve

The Cook Islands offer several natural reserves, including the Takitumu Conservation Area, where you can explore lush forests and unique wildlife.

8. Try the Local Cuisine

The Cook Islands offer a unique blend of Polynesian and European cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties.

9. Explore the Historical Sites

The Cook Islands are home to several historical sites, including the Avarua Blowholes, ancient stone structures, and colonial relics.

10. Take a Boat Tour

The Cook Islands offer a range of boat tours, allowing you to explore the stunning coastline, go snorkeling, or simply relax on the water.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, the Cook Islands offer a unique and unforgettable destination.

The Cook Islands enjoy a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Here's what you need to know about the climate and best time to visit:

Climate

The Cook Islands have a tropical climate, with warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, and high humidity throughout the year. The wet season lasts from November to April, with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Cook Islands is from May to October, during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and dry with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is also the peak tourist season, with a range of activities and events.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

The Cook Islands offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are the most popular options:

Luxury Resorts

The Cook Islands offer several luxury resorts, with private beaches, world-class facilities, and breathtaking ocean views.

Boutique Hotels

For a more intimate and personal experience, the Cook Islands offer a range of boutique hotels, offering a blend of comfort and cultural charm.

Guesthouses

For budget-friendly options, the Cook Islands offer several guesthouses, offering simple and affordable accommodation, often with stunning views of the ocean.

Vacation Rentals

The Cook Islands also offer a range of vacation rentals, including apartments, villas, and homes, offering a more private and self-catering option.

The Cook Islands offer a range of transportation options, from rental cars to scooters and public buses, to suit all needs and budgets. Here are the most popular options:

Rental Cars

Rental cars are the most popular mode of transportation in the Cook Islands, offering visitors the freedom to explore the islands at their own pace.

Scooters and Motorcycles

Scooters and motorcycles are a popular alternative to rental cars, offering a more cost-effective option and an opportunity to explore the islands in a unique way.

Public Buses

The Cook Islands also offer a reliable public bus service, connecting the main towns and villages on the main island of Rarotonga.

Taxis

Taxis are available on the main island of Rarotonga, offering a convenient and affordable option for those who don't want to drive.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.