The Cook Islands possess all the natural beauty and quiet tranquillity you would expect to find in the South Pacific. You’ll find less tourists here than in backpacker-filled Fiji but be warned – the Cook Islands are not a particularly budget-friendly destination. Once you’ve made it to paradise in the middle of the ocean, you’ll want to make the most of your time on any the 15 islands. This is a guide to saying ‘Kia Orana!’ to the Cook Islands (because there’s more to them than beaches).
The best of Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the main hub of the Cook Islands and the place all international flights will arrive into. Some people spend their whole trip on Rarotonga, which is a shame because the other islands have so much to offer and are much better for getting off the beaten tourist track. However, Rarotonga is by far the most bustling of the islands and there is plenty to fill your time with here.
If you plan on relaxing on the white sands by the crystal clear aquamarine seas, remember that not all beaches are created equal. The pick of Rarotonga’s bunch is Titikaveka Beach, which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in the world. It’s been described as the best snorkelling spot on the island. For water sports head to Muri Beach, which benefits from Rarotonga’s prevailing winds.
To satisfy the adventurer in you, take on the infamous cross-island trek which leads you from one coast of the island to the other via the pinnacle, the geographical centre of Rarotonga. The trek takes in the best of the island’s lush green forest. Be warned, the ascent and descent sections are steep and hard-going in the tropical heat, so make sure you bring plenty of water with you.
The desert islands of Aitutaki
Less than an hour’s flight from Rarotonga is the quiet haven of Aitutaki. The lagoons around the island are peppered with motus, which are newly formed miniature islands. Completely wild and almost completely undeveloped, a few of the motus are important habitats for birds such as the red-tailed tropicbird. There is even a sandbar named Honeymoon Island due to its idyllic romantic beauty.
The beautiful birds of Atiu
As well as being a haven for birdwatchers, Atiu is also relatively tourist-free and will show you a whole different side to the Cook Islands. The population of Atiu is about 400 locals and the wild scenery of the island is perfectly preserved. Hire a local guide to take you on a tour of Atiu’s caves, where you can spot the rare native kopeka bird, which uses sonar to navigate in the dark, much like a bat. Atiu is also a coffee-producing island and tasting some of the local beans is a must-do.
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The silence of Sundays
The Cook Islanders are a strongly Christian nation. On Sundays they all attend church and many shops and bars are closed all day. Trips and excursions tend not to run on Sundays; it truly is the day of rest on the Cook Islands. Attend a church service yourself to get a feel for the religious culture of the islands, or take advantage of the silence and have your own day of rest.
The island-hopping paradise of the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands are a classic South Pacific destination. Outstanding beaches, lush greenery and crystalline waters are not hard to find. To experience the true character of the Cook Islands make sure you explore the land as well as the sea during your time here.
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