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Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, a nation of 15 islands in the central South Pacific. Volcanic peaks, ridges and rainforest dominate its interior

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, a nation of 15 islands in the central South Pacific. Volcanic...

Cook Islands Travel Guide: 9 BEST Things to do in the Cook Islands (incl Rarotonga)
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Aitutaki
Aitutaki consists of a main island, a turquoise lagoon and a surrounding barrier reef. The lagoon’s waters teem with marine life, including rays, bonefish and turtles.

Aitutaki

Aitutaki consists of a main island, a turquoise lagoon and a surrounding barrier reef. The lagoon’s waters...

Cook Islands flag

Cook Islands Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Avarua

Location:

Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand

Currency:

NZ dollars (NZD)

Area:

236 sq km

Population:

8,327 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

English (official) 86.4%, Cook Islands Maori (Rarotongan) (official) 76.2%, other 8.3% (2011 est.)

Religion:

Protestant 62.8% (Cook Islands Christian Church 49.1%, Seventh Day Adventist 7.9%, Assemblies of God 3.7%, Apostolic Church 2.1%), Roman Catholic 17%, Church of Jesus Christ 4.4%, other 8%, none 5.6%, no response 2.2% (2011 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC-10

Tel Code:

+682

Things to Do

  • 1. Snorkeling in Aitutaki Lagoon

    Explore the crystal-clear waters of Aitutaki Lagoon and discover a colorful array of coral reefs and tropical fish.

  • 2. Hiking Te Rua Manga

    Embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Te Rua Manga, also known as The Needle, for breathtaking panoramic views of Rarotonga.

  • 3. Visiting Tapuaetai (One Foot Island)

    Take a boat trip to Tapuaetai, a small islet in the Aitutaki lagoon famous for its pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

  • 4. Cultural Village Tour

    Immerse yourself in Cook Islands culture with a tour of a traditional village, where you can learn about the customs, arts, and crafts of the local people.

  • 5. Kiteboarding in Muri

    Try your hand at kiteboarding in Muri, a popular spot known for its calm waters and steady winds, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.

  • 6. Exploring the Cross-Island Track

    Take a scenic hike through the heart of Rarotonga on the Cross-Island Track, passing through lush tropical rainforest and offering stunning views along the way.

  • 7. Attending a Island Night Cultural Show

    Experience the vibrant culture of the Cook Islands through a traditional island night cultural show, featuring music, dance, and delicious Polynesian cuisine.

  • 8. Fishing in Rarotonga

    Join a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some of the abundant fish species found in the waters surrounding Rarotonga.

  • 9. Snorkeling in Muri Lagoon

    Discover the vibrant underwater world of Muri Lagoon, home to a variety of colorful coral reefs and marine life.

  • 10. Exploring Black Rock Beach

    Visit Black Rock Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline known for its volcanic rock formations and stunning sunsets.

Weather

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.

Visas

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.

COVID Status

I am vaccinated 
Cook Islands Open
Test
Not required
Quarantine
Not required

Check Visa Requirements

      Accommodation

      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.

      Transportation

      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

      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.

      Insurance

      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.

      Mobile

      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.

      Community

      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.