cook islands tour packages

Cook Islands Vacations

Cook islands: ignite the adventurous spirit in you.

Handcrafted Journeys to our Most Popular Places in the Cook Islands.

Escape to the Cook Islands for a tropical haven

Here, turquoise waters caress golden shores, creating a paradise unlike any other. Immerse yourself in the warm embrace of Polynesian culture, where vibrant traditions and hospitality greet you at every turn. Indulge in a diverse array of water activities, from snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons to exploring lush hiking trails, all against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. Savour the unique flavours of Cook Islands cuisine, a fusion of Polynesian, European, and Pacific Rim influences, offering a gastronomic journey for the senses.

The Culture

The Cook Islands boast a Polynesian cultural heritage deeply ingrained in every aspect of daily life. The islands are a tapestry of traditions, legends, and customs passed down through generations, creating a unique and vibrant cultural identity.

One of the defining features of the Cook Islands' culture is the warmth and hospitality of its people. The locals, known as Cook Islanders, are renowned for their friendliness and welcoming nature. Visitors often find themselves embraced by the sense of community, making the islands not just a destination but a home away from home.

The artistry of the Cook Islands is beautifully expressed through traditional crafts. Tivaevae, intricately hand-stitched quilts, tell stories through vibrant patterns and colors. Tapa cloth, made from the inner bark of trees, is adorned with symbolic designs and used in ceremonies and celebrations. These traditional crafts are artifacts and living expressions of the islands' cultural narrative.

Music and dance are central to the Cook Islands' cultural expression. The lively beats of the drums, the strumming of ukuleles, and the swaying hips of dancers tell stories of the islands' history, legends, and daily life. Visitors can witness mesmerizing performances, such as the Cook Islands drum dance, where synchronized drumming creates a rhythmic spectacle.

Tattooing, or tātatau, is deeply rooted in Cook Islands' culture. Traditionally, tattoos were symbols of status, identity, and achievements. Each design carried specific meanings, reflecting the individual's connection to their heritage and community. While modern tattooing practices have evolved, traditional art is still honoured and celebrated.

Cook Islands' cuisine is a fusion of traditional Polynesian flavours and influences from European and Pacific Rim cuisines. Food preparation is often communal, emphasizing the importance of sharing meals with family and friends.

The Best Time to Visit

The beauty of Cook Islands vacations is timeless, and if your primary goal is to unwind on the pristine beaches and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, any time of the year is suitable.

Planning your visit during the dry season (May to October) ensures optimal weather for outdoor adventures like snorkelling, diving, and swimming. During these months, the sea is calmer, visibility is excellent, and the water temperature is comfortable. Aitutaki Lagoon, in particular, is a paradise for water activities, and the dry season offers the best conditions to explore its crystal-clear waters.

The slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity make this period ideal for hiking and exploring the lush trails of Rarotonga and other islands. The scenery is most vibrant during these months, with lush green landscapes and blooming flora.

To experience the cultural richness of the islands, plan your visit during the Te Maeva Nui Festival in late July. This celebration celebrates the Cook Islands' culture and language and showcases traditional dance performances, music, arts, and crafts.

Bird-watching enthusiasts should consider visiting the Cook Islands during the breeding season of seabirds, which occurs from September to April. Seabird colonies are active during this time, and you can witness fascinating birdlife on the islands, especially uninhabited atolls.

For fishing enthusiasts, November to March is considered the peak season for game fishing. During this period, the waters around the Cook Islands teem with various fish species, offering excellent opportunities for deep-sea fishing adventures.

Things to Know

When embarking on a journey to the Cook Islands, respecting the local customs and traditions is crucial. While casual attire suits most activities, dressing modestly is appreciated when visiting villages or attending cultural events. Learn a few basic Cook Islands Maori phrases. Saying Kia Orana for hello, Aere ra for goodbye, and Meitaki for thank you adds a personal touch to your interactions.

Food & Drink

Cook Islands' cuisine tantalizes the taste buds with its unique flavours. Indulge in the islands' most famous dish, ika mata. Ika Mata is a dish of raw, fresh fish (usually tuna) marinated in coconut cream and lime, capturing the essence of island living. Rukau (taro leaves), cooked in coconut cream, is a staple and highly nutritious dish that embodies the simplicity and richness of Cook Islands' culinary traditions. End your traditional Cook Islands meal with a traditional dessert like the creamy Banana Poke – cooked overripe bananas in coconut cream, sugar, and arrowroot.

Relax on the beach with a cool and refreshing pawpaw punch to quench your thirst. Or try the most refreshing non-alcoholic drink of all, available in abundance on the island – fresh, tender coconut water! Craving a heady cocktail? Indulge in various cocktails made with fresh tropical fruit juices and alcohol. Or, guzzle down a crisp, refreshing lager brewed on the Islands.

Get Inspired About the Cook Islands.

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Cook Islands Tours & Vacations

Close your eyes and imagine a remote tropical island...

Did you think of rustling palm trees, chalk-white sand and brilliantly blue water? Welcome to the Cook Islands, one of the South Pacific 's most idyllic destinations. Fulfil your wildest tropical island dreams as you relax in turquoise lagoons, snack on local fruit and snorkel with tropical fish and giant clams. Or discover the rich culture beneath the postcard-perfect scenes by meeting a Cook Islands warrior, learning about ancient cooking, healing and dancing traditions, or getting to know the locals at the markets. Relax, you're on Cook Island time now.

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Cook Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Avarua District in Rarotonga (population approximately 5,000)

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Cook Islands Maori (also known as Rarotongan), English

Cook Island Standard Time (GMT-10)

CALLING CODE

Electricity, learn more about cook islands, eating and drinking.

Made with local produce from the islands and the rich waters surrounding them, Cook Islands food is fresh and simple. Many dishes are centered around fruit and root vegetables including banana, coconut (and coconut milk and cream), taro and cassava. Food is cooked in a number of ways, but the traditional way of cooking in the Cook Islands is in an  umu,  or an earth oven. This is when a shallow fire pit is dug in the ground and filled with tones. The food is then wrapped in banana leaves and placed on top to steam for a few hours, resulting in a deliciously tender flavor. Here are some popular dishes to try in the Cook Islands:

1.  Ika mata  – raw fish and fresh veggies marinated in lime or lemon juice and coconut milk.

2.  Curried eke  – octopus cooked with onions, garlic, curry powder and coconut milk. It’s usually served with white rice to mop up the sauce.

3.  Rukau  – a dish made from young taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and caramelised onions. It makes an awesome side dish to grilled fish or chicken.

4.  Rori  – a local delicacy made from sea cucumbers fried with butter, garlic, onions and fragrant spices.

5.  Banana poke  – a traditional Cook Islands dessert made with overripe bananas, coconut cream, arrowroot and sugar.

Festivals and events

The Cook Islands boasts one of the liveliest and most vibrant cultures in the South Pacific, and festivals play an important role in keeping cultural traditions alive. Sport is also an integral part of Cook Island life and locals take it quite seriously. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events throughout the year.

1.  Te Mire Ura Festival Cook Islanders love to dance, so it's only fitting they have a festival dedicated to it. Te Mire Ura is an annual dance competition at the National Auditorium of Rarotonga. The nation's best dancers of all ages and levels gather to showcase their best moves and incredible costumes in an attempt to win the title. Visitors are more than welcome to watch in the gallery for an unforgettable holiday experience.

2.  Te Maeva Nui Kicking off in the last week of July and ending on 4 August, Te Maeva Nui marks the day when the Cook Islands became an independent nation. The week-long festival is jam-packed with celebrations including an elaborate opening ceremony, choirs, float parades, traditional dance performances, art exhibitions and impressive spreads of food.

3.  Turama Turama, or All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day, is an annual festival that takes place on 1 November to commemorate the lives of family members and friends who have passed away. People gather in cemeteries, decorate the graves of loved ones and light candles at mass.

4.  Te Mire Tiare Flower Festival Usually held in November, Te Mire Tiare Flower Festival is a week-long flower show featuring parades of flower floats and colourful flower decorations and arrangements all over Rarotonga. There's usually a different theme each year and the locals' creativity exceeds itself every year. Read more about Festivals in the Cook Islands

Weather on the Cook Islands

Located in the heart of the South Pacific, the Cook Islands boast a tropical oceanic climate with warm, stable temperatures and generally pleasant weather throughout the year. There are only seasons – a wet season from December to March and a dry season from April to November – but the temperatures don’t fluctuate much with average highs hovering between 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F) throughout the year.

The wet season sees higher humidity, rainfall and daytime temperatures that average 29°C (84°F). The South Pacific also experiences tropical cyclones and hurricanes in this period, and while the Cook Islands aren’t usually severely affected, there’s always a chance. The dry – or the drier – season sees slightly cooler highs of 25°C (77°F)to 28°C (82°F). July and August are the coolest months with lows of 18°C (64°F) at night, which is still fairly mild if you're traveling from a temperate place. The water temperatures in the Cook Islands are steady throughout the year, lingering between a balmy 24°C (75°F) to 28°C (82°F).

Cook Islands travel FAQs

What should i pack for a cook islands tour.

The Cook Islands boast warm, tropical weather all year round. Add that to the fact you'll probably spend most of your time on dreamy beaches and lagoons, swimming and snorkeling, you don't really need to pack much. Light, summery clothing, swimwear, sun protective gear and sandals are essential. You might also need a pair of runners or hiking boots if you want to explore the islands' walking trails. Here are the essential items to pack:

• small backpack for day tours
• waterproof bag to protect your gear during water activities
• reef-friendly sunscreen
• sunglasses and sunhat
• comfortable walking shoes
• reusable water bottle
• insect repellant
• quick-dry towel
• reef shoes or waterproof sandals 
• light sweater for cooler evenings

How to get to the Cook Islands

Located in the middle of the South Pacific, the remoteness of the Cook Islands means travel options are pretty limited. But hey, we like to think that's one of the things that makes traveling to an isolated tropical paradise even more exciting. The only way to get there is to fly to Rarotonga (the largest island). Currently, the only destination with direct flights to Rarotonga is Auckland in New Zealand.

Are Intrepid's Cook Islands tours accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Do you need a visa to travel to the Cook Islands?

Visa requirements vary depending on where you’re from. If you’re a national from the  UK ,  USA , Canada,  Australia  and several other countries in  Europe  and  South America , you can enter the Cook Islands without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 31 days. 

New Zealand nationals can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. If you're traveling for business purposes, or you intend on staying longer or want to extend your trip, you may need a visa or entry-on-arrival permit. Extensions are usually granted on a monthly basis for up to five months, and you'll need to apply at least 2 weeks before your current visa or permit expires.

If you’re travelling from a county not mentioned above, you will need to contact your local embassy or high commission to confirm your visa requirements.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

When is the best time to visit the Cook Islands?

There isn’t really a ‘bad time’ to visit the Cook Islands as the temperatures are balmy all year round. But if great weather is what you're looking for, we recommend planning your trip in the dry season between April and November when humidity and rainfall are low. July and August boast the best weather, but they're also the busiest months so expect higher prices for accommodation, sold-out tourist activities, and busy restaurants.

The off-season coincides with the wet season when the weather is hotter, stickier and wetter. If you don't mind the rain, you can usually find cheaper prices and empty beaches, making it the perfect time to enjoy the islands in their most idyllic state.

The shoulder seasons are April to May and September to October, and you can generally expect drier weather with lots of sunshine and warm temperatures, except you won’t have to compete with throngs of tourists for the best spots on the beach.

Is tipping customary in the Cook Islands?

Tipping isn't expected in the Cook Islands, but if you're particularly happy with a service and you'd like to show your gratitude, a tip will be well received. 

What are some common phrases to learn before going to the Cook Islands?

There are two official languages: English and Cook Islands Māori, also known as Rarotongan, which is spoken by over 20,000 people. Cook Islands Māori is similar to New Zealand and Tahitian Māori. Learn a few phrases before your next trip.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Where to eat, where to stay in cook islands.

If you’ve been dreaming of an island escape, leave your worries at home and book a Cook Islands hideaway. Whatever your taste in accommodation might be, the Cook Islands has the ideal place for you to lose yourself in paradise; from hostels, self-contained villas and holiday homes, to guest houses and 5-star hotels and resorts.Rarotonga and Aitutaki have an extensive range of award-winning accommodation that’s perfect for honeymooners and families alike. Budget-savvy travellers will love finding that cheaper accommodation options, such as homestays and holiday homes, don’t lose much splendour. In fact, they provide a completely unique and cultural experience.For an even more secluded holiday, you can venture over to the smaller islands of Atiu, Mangaia and Mitiaro to vacation in villas and friendly homestays.

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Frequently asked questions

When you're packing for a trip to the Cook Islands, don't forget the essentials like your visa, passport, chargers, camera, sunblock, some NZD and the correct power adaptor. From there, we recommend packing a towel, plenty of bathing suits, insect repellent, a hat, reef shoes and flip flops, some walking shoes and a great book to relax and read by the water.  

The Cook Islands boasts 15 islands just waiting for you to explore. With that in mind, adventure travellers and families tend to opt for the south and west coasts of Rarotonga, while couples and solo travellers opt for the west to enjoy golden sunsets and colourful snorkelling through underwater landscapes.   

Our latest info can be found in our Help Centre here    

Like any tropical climate, the Cook Islands offers two main seasons – hot and dry, and hot with a little bit of rain (their wet season). The drier weather tends to stick around between April and November, though you can enjoy sunny days, warm waters and lush tropical vibes all year round. 

Prepare to embrace the tropical vibes and island way of life when holidaying in Raratonga. Spend days soaking up the serenity on picturesque beaches, lazing in a hammock by the pool, snorkelling and exploring an underwater oasis, trying your hand at water sports and getting to know the friendly locals. 

Flight Centre's team of Travel Experts have nailed the art of relaxing and embracing island time, so they are the perfect people to ask about your Cook Islands escape. We've worked hard to curate the best Cook Islands holiday packages on the market and can work to create a package suited to your needs. From luxury resorts to family-friendly holidays and diving expeditions, check out our range of Cook Islands holiday packages in store or online today.  

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The Rarotongan Beach Resort and Lagoonairum

Rarotonga 5 nights

Stay at this iconic resort right on Aroa Lagoonarium for Rarotonga's Best Snorkeling, Beach Bar and Grill, Kids Club, Spa and more!

Pacific Resort

A luxurious oasis on the shores of Muri Lagoon. Immerse yourself in Polynesian charm and indulge in the tranquility of private bungalows. Discover a b...

Edgewater Resort & Spa

This package is fully customisable with real time availability and instant confirmation. Prices are dynamic providing the best rate of the day depende...

Muri Beach Club

Paradise found in Rarotonga. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and a serene ambiance await at this idyllic beachfront retreat. <...

Experience the beauty of our country ........

A secluded paradise with a turquoise Lagoon, white sandy beaches, 50 minutes flight from the mainland.

On the Eastern side of Rarotonga, with glass like water and stunning scenery.

Home of Aroa Beach and Black Rock, family friendly neighborhood and plenty of bar and restaurants.

How to book!

Discover Cook Island's fully flexible packaged holidays allow you to easily build a getaway tailored to your needs. Use our template packages below to start building your ultimate holiday - or start completely from scratch by creating a custom itinerary.

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Our light and vision...

Turama means light and vision. We bring light to the journey to the most pristine, authentic and relaxed of all tropical destinations, the Cook Islands. Our vision is to be the most successful and respected Tourism Operator in the South Pacific. Our mission is to deliver expertise and service solutions to our clients, meeting their needs, sharing and protecting our unique Cook Islands cultural, natural and social environment.

For 30 years, we have been your Cook Islands experts!

Turama Pacific Travel Group

Island Hopper Vacations Rarotonga

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Kia orana, need help with your holiday get in touch with us today.

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Manuia Beach Resort

Set on a lovely stretch of fine white sand beach that fringes an aqua lagoon and provides the perfect vantage point to watch the views across the beach and the lagoon.

Edgewater Resort & Spa

The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the largest resort in the Cook Islands, offering a wide range of value-for money accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets

Pacific Resort Aitutaki

An absolutely stunning boutique resort surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Aitutaki Lagoon. The resort offers 27 luxury rooms; a choice of beachfront bungalows and villas, all air-conditioned and situated on a beautiful beachfront location with its own private sundeck.

Cook Islands Holiday Packages & Resort Deals

You’ll find below a selection of our latest Cook Islands holiday packages including flights and with great rates for many of our Cook Islands resorts. If you’re after a customised holiday for your family or a special occasion for wedding parties or honeymoons feel free to contact us for a quote. We can’t wait to assist you plan your next island escape to the beautiful Cook Islands.

Palm Grove Couples Package Deal

Muri Beach Club Hotel Couples Package Deal

Little Polynesian Resort Couples Package Deal

Manuia Beach Resort Couples Package Deal

Pacific Resort Rarotonga Family Holiday Package

Nautilus Resort Luxury Cook Islands Holiday Deal

Pacific Resort Aitutaki Couples Holiday Package

Aitutaki Lagoon Resort Cook Islands Holiday Package Deal

Sea Change Villas Cook Islands Holiday Package Deal

Crown Beach Resort Holiday Package Deal

Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Cook Islands Package Deal

The Edgewater Resort & Spa Family Holiday Package

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium Package Deal

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10 Best Tours in the Cook Islands [2024]

Support cook islands pocket guide and get our huge ebook collection to access our tips on the go, 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 .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across the Cook Islands and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2024])
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• Cook Islands Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2024])
• Ministry of Finance & Economic Management (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2024])
• Ministry of Agriculture (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2024])
• Cook Islands Statistics Office (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Ministry of Transport (Transport operators and licenses - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2024])
• Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for the Cook Islands - Updated [2024])

At Cook Islands Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About the Author

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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About Cook Islands

With 15 islands, travellers will find water sports, culture, festivals, nightlife and some of the most pristine beaches in the South Pacific seas. The main island and the capital is Rarotonga; along with Aitutaki Mangaia, Atiu, Mauke, Takutea, Manuae, Palmerston and Mitiaro – each with its own unique beauty, fun and identity. For couples, families, solo travellers and friends, there is an abundance of activities to be experienced.

Explore Rarotonga’s beaches and villages, Atiu’s  forests and bird species , Manuae’s thriving marine life or just laze by the clean white sand beaches of Aitutaki. A trip to the Cook Islands can guarantee lasting memories.

Things to Do in Cook Islands

The Cook Islands has some of the clearest waters in the world. On an average day, visibility is around 50 feet to over 200 feet of shimmering seas, making it a mecca for diving , snorkelling , windsurfing and water sports . Secondly, along with a celebrated whale conservation centre, travellers can charter trips to see humpback whales on their seasonal visit (July-October) to this island destination. Aitutaki, Tongareva and Rarotonga are surrounded by some of the largest lagoons in the world. A cruise is the perfect way to spend a relaxing day amidst natural beauty of the South Pacific Ocean. Then, A visit to a village is must to experience true Cook Island hospitality. Guests will learn about arts, crafts, pearl farming, and the traditional feast. A Mitiaro home-stay is recommended for a true immersion in island life. In fact, check out our blogs on Cook Islands – we regularly post on the resorts, things to do, top experiences and activities and so on!

Best Times to Visit Cook Islands

As a tropical island destination, there are always stray rain showers in any week. But as a whole, Cook Islands has good weather for most of the year. For guaranteed good weather, April to October are the right months to travel to this slice of paradise.

Cook Islands is unique in the aspect that festivals, events and fun in general is taken very seriously – to the point that the whole country shuts down to have a good time! For example, the people celebrate Te Maeva Nui to mark their decision to self-rule. For a week (28 July to 4 August), there are floats, parties, dance competitions and a carnival-like atmosphere day and night. The Vaka Eiva is Cook Island’s traditional competition of canoeing, where having fun is paramount!

Hotels and Resorts in Cook Islands

This destination has a range of accommodations options. Travellers can choose from small inns, resorts to self-contained luxury villas to suit their individual or group needs. As the capital, Rarotonga has quite a number of hotels and resorts. If you are seeking out a premium resort then don’t pass up Rumours , Club Raro Resort or the Edgewater Resort . For those seeking five-star offering with more seclusion, the Pacific Resort in Aitutaki checks all the boxes.

For a dream honeymoon, Cook Islands is the perfect destination. Check out Hideaway Holidays’ list of hotels and resorts below, or drop in your details for our South Pacific Specialists to call you with our bestsellers.

Top 5 Experiences in Cook Islands

The Te Mira Ura Festival is a seasonal festival in April where people bring out their dancing shoes and compete in the Dancer of the Year event. Visitors are encouraged to join islanders in this spectacular event of dance, gaiety and non-stop fun. Then, let our South Pacific Specialists plan you a sublime charter across the islands, diving the numerous wrecks and coral reefs full of schools of colourful fish. When Cook Islands celebrates their freedom and self-governance, it’s a riot of colourful floats, dances, cultural performances and wreaths of sweet-smelling flowers on August 4th, the Te Maeva Nui Festival . Picture a private bungalow on miles of powdery white sand beach lining a lagoon, with a glass-like sea. A romantic escape or honeymoon in Cook Islands can be surreal, magical and picture-perfect.

Post lockdown holidays in Cook Islands

Looking to book a great Cook Islands holiday to properly celebrate post-lockdown travel? Why, that’s an excellent idea! Did you know that from January 13, 2022, onwards, Cook Islands is opening its borders for international travellers? Yes, it is!

Of course, there would be a certain set of basic health and safety rules applicable to all travellers. One, there has to be a COVID-19 RT-PCR test to be performed within 72 hours of departure and the results to be carried with. Travellers need to download the CookSafe+ app to help with contact tracing and keep it on at all times. And lastly, just obey and practice COVID-appropriate behaviour as you are normally observing. End of story, begin holiday.

Check out our Cook Islands Hot Deals , where we’ve collected the best of post-lockdown holiday packages to Rarotonga and other islands!

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Cook Islands holidays are an experience of a lifetime. The Cook Islands are a stunning necklace of islands in the sun and are the jewel in the crown of the South Pacific island groups. The culture, traditions, arts and crafts are distinct from all others in the Pacific. The Cook Islands are like nowhere else, you feel so naturally at one with the island way of life. And how cool is a government that legislates that no building can be higher than the tallest coconut palm? Another great bonus with Cook Islands tourism over neighbouring French Polynesia is the local currency, the New Zealand dollar, which has a most attractive exchange rate against the US Dollar, UK Pound or Australian Dollar. So, welcome to the Cook Islands, immerse yourself in another culture... another time. Kia manuia! - May good fortune shine on you!

Cook Islands accommodation is available to suit every budget and taste. We've chosen several quality resorts on the main island of Rarotonga (Raro to the locals) and on the island of Aitutaki. There are day trips from Raro to Aitutaki but unless time is really short go for longer. If you don't stay at least a night or two on Aitutaki you will miss out on what we believe is one of the most beautiful, rare and magical places in the world - Aitutaki's spectacular lagoon.

Cook Islands activities include swimming in the beautiful clear water, snorkelling and diving, surfing and exploring the nature trails and wildlife of this exquisite part of the planet. Sightseeing, day tours and cruises are available that take in the culture and natural wonders around the Cook Islands.

Similar to Hawaii the Cook Islands weather is very attractive all year round. The warmer months from November to April range from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius and the cooler months from May to October range from 22 to 27 degrees Celsius.

TravelOnline offers a number of Cook Islands holiday packages to help the traveller get the best value for money for their holiday. Packages usually include extra holiday components at discounted rates such as accommodation, meals, transfers, flights or tours. TravelOnline also have experienced travel consultants on hand to assist with customising your quote for that perfect holiday.

The Cook Islands consists of 15 major islands. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and are said to have a similar feel to Hawaii before it became more developed. Captain James Cook named the islands the Hervey Islands in 1773 however they came to be known as the Cook Islands in honour of him from about 1820. The Cook Islands are politically linked with New Zealand.

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