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Turama Pacific Travel Group loyally supports like-minded suppliers and business partners working together to create a reliable, trustworthy partnership through all their marketing initiatives across the travel industry.

Turama specialists know the Cooks intimately, and with their hands-on owner operator approach to business, they are able to provide a complete service solution for all their clients.

This includes up-to-date online booking technology, dedicated market representatives in key locations around the world, and over 50 friendly and knowledgeable Cook Islands staff as part of their team.

So, let the friendly team at Turama Pacific Travel Group provide you with all the help and advice you need when you are planning a vacation, or whatever other experience you wish to have, here in the Cook Islands.

To make contact, either go directly to the group members respective websites by clicking on their logos below, or simply use the menu above to learn more about each of the member companies and find their full contact details.

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Cook Islands Escapes

Cook Islands holidays are our specialty & our passion!

Cook Islands Escapes is a specialist division of Island Escapes , a boutique wholesale and retail travel agency specialising in travel to the beautiful Cook Islands.

We pride ourselves on maintaining outstanding levels of personal service and offering quality product and competitive prices. Our friendly staff have a detailed knowledge of the destination and we firmly believe that our specialisation and passion for what we do ensure our valued customers receive the holiday experience that they expect.

Regardless of whether you are looking for a short break, a honeymoon or romantic escape, a family holiday or just an excuse to get away, we can tailor a holiday to suit your personal needs and budget.

Island Escapes was established in 2003. We go out of our way to make sure that all our customers experience the very best in South Pacific holidays.

As one of Australia’s leading Cook Islands Travel Specialists, we look forward to assisting you with your Cook Islands Escape!

You’ll be dealing directly with a Cook Islands destination specialist…

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Sarah is a seasoned travel agent with 25 years of experience in the industry. She is known for her passion for travel, attention to detail and her commitment to helping her clients plan the perfect trip.

As a destination specialist for The Cook Islands, Sarah can provide valuable insights into the best Cook Islands resorts , depending on the needs of your travelling party.

Sarah has helped hundreds of travellers plan and book their dream island escapes. She has worked with families, couples, and solo travellers. She has a reputation for delivering personalised and memorable travel experiences and is an active travel industry member who regularly attends trade shows and events to stay up-to-date with the latest travel options for the Cook Islands.

She is committed to providing you with the best travel experience to the Cook Islands. With 25 years of experience, Sarah is an expert in her field and a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to the Cook Islands.

Fill in a booking enquiry now.

Direct email: [email protected]

02 8077 3579 or 1300 305 870

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Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Cook Islands - Premium Garden Villa

Cook Islands Adventure

6 days | feel at home on a pearl of the pacific.

Stunning aerial view of the Muri beach and lagoon, with its three island, in Rarotonga in the Cook island archipelago in the Pacific

Savour every moment of this six-day adventure that takes you across the Cook Islands. Start with the markets, orchards, waterfalls and views of Rarotonga then hop over to the white sand beaches and lush green bush of Atiu. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of time to laze beachside, admire a slow sunset, meet locals during cultural and wildlife tours and visit a hidden tumunu bush bar. This is a holiday that’ll leave you rested, relaxed and refreshed (while still showcasing the very best of island life).

Trip overview

  • Learn about the traditional practices of Atiu and the island’s people, sample a meal prepared in an umu (underground oven), and hear about the cultural significance of Tapa cloth.
  • Sample a sip of tumunu – a beer brewed in the hollowed-out coconut tree trunk – while getting to know the locals at a hidden bush bar that shares its name with the unique beverage.
  • Whether you’re spiritual or not, the soaring songs and welcoming locals of a Sunday morning church service on the Cook Islands will leave you inspired and appreciative of your idyllic surroundings.
  • This island getaway hits the right balance of inclusions and leisurely beach time. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore your own way, either on a range of optional adventures or simply lazing by the lagoon with a cocktail in hand.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

Kia Orana – welcome to the Cook Islands! Rarotonga might be the beating heart of the Cook Islands, but it moves at a very tropical pace. You're on island time now, so sit back and relax! All that’s planned for you today is a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your group leader and fellow travellers, followed by an optional dinner to enjoy the first night together. Until then, spend your afternoon chilling out on the beach or swimming in the lagoon. There are kayaks and snorkels available from your accommodation if needed.  An excellent place for an introduction to Cook Islands culture and art is the Museum of Cultural Enterprise. If you're keen to head out and explore, jump on the public bus that runs along the main road, taking around 50 minutes to circle all of Rarotonga with a stop right outside the hotel.

There are no meals included on this day.

  • Rarotonga - Te Ara- Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise - Free
  • Rarotonga - Kayak & snorkel hire - Free

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

As there is plenty to see and experience in Rarotonga, we highly recommend spending a few extra days here at the start or end of your tour. Additional accommodation can be booked through your booking agent, and any optional activities you are interested in should also be booked in advance directly through the operators.

Set the tropical tone straight away with a visit to the local market. The Punanga Nui Market runs every Saturday with free entertainment, fresh food, produce stalls, organic coffee and handicrafts. Browse the local offerings, then head back to your accommodation for some free time. In the afternoon, join your leader and local friends for a tour around Vaimaanga village. Gain further insight into local life and traditions with an exploration of the village’s trails, views, plantations and orchards, where you can meet villagers and maybe even take a dip in a waterfall. After the tour, you’ll return to your accommodation for an evening at leisure.

  • Rarotonga - Vaimaanga Inland Walk
  • Rarotonga - Punanga Nui Market

Today's village exploration involves moderate walks at an easy pace. Depending on the routes chosen, you may walk up to 8 km during the tour.

Start your day with a service at one of the Cook Islands’ Christian Churches dotted around the island. These white, coral and limestone churches are filled with soaring songs of worship and parishioners ready to welcome you with open arms. It’ll be an incredible experience, no matter your beliefs. The afternoon is as clear as the islands’ blue skies. You might like to visit the Maire Nui Garden, which has over seven acres of tropical plants, flowers and trees. On the way home, you can also pop into a local cafe for a Cook Islands famous fish sandwich. In the evening, maybe head to the Muri Night Market to share a meal with your fellow travellers.

  • Rarotonga - Local church service
  • Rarotonga - Muri Night Market

Visitors are most welcome to attend Sunday services, observing modest attire of shirts and long trousers for men and longer-length skirts or dresses for women, preferably with covered shoulders. Services start at 10 am, and the Pastor invites visitors to enjoy island fruits and light refreshments in the nearby meeting hall afterwards with the congregation.

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

After breakfast, say farewell to Rarotonga as you transfer to the airport for a short flight to Atiu. Check into your accommodation, enjoy some downtime and then spend the afternoon taking a cultural tour of the island. Your guide will share some of the traditional practices of the island and its people, including preparing (and tasting!) food made using an umu (an underground oven). You’ll also learn about weaving techniques and the importance of Tapa cloth to the local culture, which is used for ceremonies and special occasions. After the tour, the evening is free to relax in the grounds. 

  • Atiu - Guided island tour & traditional lunch

Where yesterday was spent understanding Atiu’s rich cultural heritage, today is about appreciating the island’s natural beauty and unique wildlife. This morning, you’ll be picked up for an interactive tour that provides knowledge of Atiu’s flora, birds and topography. Get immersed in lush forests along hidden trails – keeping an eye out for the endangered Kakerori (Rarotongan Flycatcher) – then finish with lunch on a secluded white sand beach. Enjoy a free afternoon, perhaps enjoying the swimming pool or hiring a bike. Visit a tumunu this evening. These local bars hidden in the Atiu forest serve up freshly brewed bush beer made in a coconut tree trunk (which is also called a tumunu). A typical tumunu session starts with a few rounds from a small coconut shell before a prayer and a lecture are given. It’ll be quite the way to share stories with locals, hear the songs of Atiu and form some strong bonds.

  • Atiu - Tumunuu (Bush Beer) club visit
  • Atiu - Birdwatching & Anatakitaki Cave guided tour

Spend a free morning savouring your final moments at Atiu before taking a flight back to Rarotonga. Your trip ends at the airport, but transfers and additional nights at the Rarotonga accommodation are available. There's plenty more to do in Rarotonga to fill extra time, including sea scooter safaris, night paddle boarding and reef walks. Just book any optional activities directly through the local operators well in advance to avoid disappointment.

  • Rarotonga - Ariimoana Reef Explorer tour (cost is per person, min 6 people) - NZD100
  • Rarotonga - Ariki Adventures Sea Scooter Safari (price from) - NZD140
  • Rarotonga - Fire on Water Night Paddle Tour - NZD79

5 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Private vehicle, Plane

Beachfront hotel (3 nights), Beach bungalow (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. This trip starts on Day 1 at 6pm in Rarotonga and finishes on Day 6 on arrival at Rarotonga Airport at approximately 1 pm. 2. Accommodation is not included on Day 6. Additional accommodation in Rarotonga is subject to availability. 3. A Single Supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 4. You will have local leaders on each island, with flights between islands unaccompanied. 5. Your passport details are required at the time of booking in order for us to book the domestic flight to Atiu.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Check back later or explore reviews for similar trips.

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101 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands: The Ultimate List [2023]

101 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands: The Ultimate List [2024]

Cook islands travel tips: 31 tips for travelling in rarotonga & the cook islands, the complete travel guide to atiu, rarotonga & the cook islands weather in march, complete travel guides to the cook islands, other southern islands, northern islands, more cook islands travel tips, what is the weather like in raro & the cooks.

The Cook Islands has a tropical climate with warm and sunny weather all year round, with its fair share of rainy days too.

The Best Time to Visit the Cook Islands

There’s never really a “bad” time to visit the Cook Islands. It all depends on how important the weather, crowds, price and seasonal activities are to you.

Top 50 Resorts in the Cook Islands

(And Not Just on Rarotonga…) This is it: the ultimate list of the Cook Islands‘ most sensational resorts and holiday accommodations!

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Extra Rarotonga & the Cook Islands Travel Tips

The best cook islands accommodations: where to stay [2024], how much does a trip to rarotonga & the cook islands cost 💰 [2024], cook islands tourist visa: do you need a visa to visit rarotonga & the cook islands, cook islands accommodation tips, where to stay on atiu: the best atiu accommodations [2024], cook islands pocket guide, the largest cook islands travel guide in your pocket.

Welcome to the internet’s most comprehensive travel guide to the Cook Islands! Plan your holiday to the Cook Islands on this fast and free travel guide to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, just a click or tap away in your browser. Whether you’re planning a family vacation to Rarotonga, a couple’s getaway or even backpacking, we have all the answers to your questions about the Cook Islands right here.

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Cook Islands Pocket Guide makes planning your trip to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands not just about dreaming about your Cook Islands holiday; it’s about making your vacation dreams a reality. We give you all the practical Cook Islands travel tips you need, from transport to the best resorts for your time in paradise. We’ll give you travel advice from the moment you arrive in the Cook Islands all the way until the moment your Cook Islands vacation comes to an end. On top of that, choosing your dream Cook Islands destination is a breeze with our easy-to-read articles and travel advice.

Covering All Styles of Travel in Rarotonga and the Cook Islands

Want to travel the Cook Islands on a budget? Looking to treat yourself to some Cook Islands luxury? Planning a honeymoon to Rarotonga or a family vacation to the Cook Islands? Cook Islands Pocket Guide has all that covered and more. We are your complete travel guide to the Cook Islands, offering return travellers new and exciting options for their next Cook Islands trip while giving first-time vacationers all the Rarotonga and Cook Islands travel advice they need to plan a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Plus, did we mention all of our Cook Islands tourism tips are free?! Start exploring Cook Islands Pocket Guide to get your best start to exploring Rarotonga and the Cook Islands!

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Travel agents specialising in the Cook Islands

Cook islands agents.

Ask Uncle Jeff, e-mail: [email protected] PO Box 947 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone/fax: 682 21530.   Island Hopper Vacations Ltd, PO Box 240 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone: 682 22-026 Fax: 682 22-036 Telex: 62036   Jetsave Travel Cook Islands, e-mail: [email protected] PO Box 40 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone: 682 27-707 Fax: 682 28-807. Website: www.jetsave.co.ck  

Pacific agents

Sun Vacations Fiji Ltd PO Box 10662, Nadi Airport, Fiji. Phone: 679 672 4273 Fax: 679 672 5829. E-mail: [email protected]

South Seas Adventures Colorado, USA. Ph: 800-576-7327.

New Zealand agents

Go Pacific, 151 Victoria St West, PO Box 91444, Auckland Tel: 64-9-914 4048 Fax: 64-9-377 0111 Email: [email protected]

Pacific travel information

Tourism cook islands.

Further information, brochures and so forth on tourism in the Cook Islands can be obtained from the offices of Tourism Cook Islands in:-   HEAD OFFICE - COOK ISLANDS : PO Box 14, Rarotonga. Phone: 682 29 435 Fax: 682 21 435. Email: [email protected]   NEW ZEALAND : PO Box 37 391, 1/127 Symonds Street, Auckland. Phone: 09-366-1100 Fax: 09-309-1876   AUSTRALIA : 1/177 Pacific Highway, North Sydney, NSW 2060 Phone: 02-9955-0446 Fax: 02-9955-0447   USA : USA Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, 17880 Skypark Circle Suite 250, Irvine CA 92614. Ph: 949 476 4086 Fax: 949 476 4088   UNITED KINGDOM : 375 Upper Richmond Road West, London SW14 7NX Phone: 44-81-392-1838 Fax: 44-81-392-1318   GERMANY/AUSTRIA/SWITZERLAND : Dirkenstr 40, 1020 Berlin, Germany Phone: 49-30-238-17628 Fax: 49-30-238-17641   BENELUX : Rue Americaine 27, 1050 Bruseels, Belgium Phone: 32-2-538-2930 Fax: 32-2-538-2885   FRANCE : 3800 Grenoble, 13 Rue d'Alembert Phone:35-76-700617 Fax: 35-76-700918   HONG KONG : Pacific Leisure, Tung Ming Building, 40 Des Voeux Rd, Central. PO Box 2382 Phone: 852-524-7065 Cable:MYPLEASURE

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

Jan 24, 2024 • 8 min read

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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.

Teenage boy on a kayak in the lagoon in the Cook Islands

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.

Guides playing ukuleles aboard a boat

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.

A child wearing a flower headdress blows on a conch horn

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.

A man paddleboarding

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 April 2022 and updated January 2024

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Contact specialist Cook Islands travel agents to get customised package quotes, discounted rates and local advice for your trip. TripCrafters has a trusted network of 3000+ travel agents. TripCrafters connects you with up to 3 Cook Islands travel agents who have deep knowledge about travel to Cook Islands. Travel agents provide you with customized Cook Islands tour packages and can arrange unique experiences for your trip. Submit a request now – it’s Free!

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Cook Islands

Cook Islands 6

Rest, Fun, Activity or Adventure

There is no place quite like the Cook Island's. The locals are friendly, the beaches, lagoons, mountains and forests are pristine and there's countless dining and outdoor adventure experiences. Its not hard to love this little paradise in the heart of the Pacific Islands!

Located in the heart of the South Pacific, the Cook Islands enjoy a warm and sunny climate all year round. While there isn’t a bad time to visit the Cook Islands, the drier months of April to November are considered ideal with an average daily high of 26 degrees celsius.

The temperatures between December and March range between 22 degrees (min) and 30 degrees (max) and are more humid with the occasional tropical shower.

Attractions

Punanga nui market.

The Punanga Nui Markets is an experience not to be missed and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals. Held every Saturday by the waterfront in Avarua on Rarotonga, it is one of the biggest social events of the week. Wander through market stalls and shop for highly sought after black pearls, ukuleles and colourful pareo’s (sarongs). Try homemade delicacies and recharge with a coffee and a delicious coconut bun. Head over to the main stage and enjoy the live entertainment.

Lagoon Cruises

No holiday to the Cook Islands would be complete without experiencing the stunning lagoons. A cruise on Muri Lagoon, Rarotonga is a must. Snorkel or take a glass bottom boat tour to discover colourful marine life and afterwards enjoy a delicious barbecue seafood lunch. Aitutaki, ‘a little paradise’, consists of 15 secluded motus (islets) sprinkled across the vast turquoise lagoon. Cruise to One Foot Island and get your passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office.

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Island Nights

A highlight of any visit to the Cook Islands is an Island Night Cultural show, where history and traditions are shared through music, song and dance. Held at a variety of resorts and cultural centres on Rarotonga and Aitutaki, these nights are often combined with a traditional Cook Islands fest (umu kai) where you can sample local dishes like Ita Mata (marinated raw fish salad). Marvel at the skills of the fire dancers and watch singers and dancers swing their hips to the beat of island drums. It is great fun for the whole family especially when the audience participates in the traditional dance moves. 

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Rarotonga is paradise for nature loves with walk that cross the island and take you off the beaten track. One of the most popular is the Cross Island Trek where you hike from the north coast over the mountainous interior and down to the south coast. Be rewarded with amazing view from the Needle (Te Rua Manga) and cool off at Wigmore’s waterfall. Other walking tracks include Raemaru Trek, Takuvaine Valley Trail and Avana Valley Track. Most of the walks are sign posted and have different degrees of difficulty. 

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Adventure on Wheels

With circumference of just 32 kilometres, it’s easy to circle Rarotonga on wheels. With no traffic lights on the island, hiring a car, motor scooter or electric bike is a popular way to explore at your own pace. Adventure seekers will love getting off the beaten track with a buggy or quad bike tour. Travel across muddy, rocky terrains and through streams as you head into the jungle. Take to the mountains on a 4WD inland safari and discover ancient maraes and palaces. It is a great way to experience another side of island life!

In Aitutaki, the lagoon takes centre stage.  A vast expanse of crystal clear water scattered with uninhabited white sands islets that frame the palm-fringed main island.  It’s arguably the most idyllic lagoon in the world.  For those who like their own patch of paradise, hire a canoe and paddle out to the nearest motu for a picnic on your very own stretch of beach.

Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise: The highlight of Aitutaki is its lagoon, and a visit is not complete without a fun-filled day cruising this spectacular wonder.  Explore the incredible marine life while snorkelling and swimming.  The lagoon tour includes a barbeque fish lunch on One Foot Island and visit some of the other small islands within the lagoon.  Don’t forget to take your passport for an official One Foot Island stamp from the only post office on an uninhabited island.  Price guide $113 per adult.

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Destinations

  • Cook Islands

cook island travel agent

The Cook Islands lies halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, boasting an idyllic climate, endless adventure, romance and pure relaxation. And getting here is easy with flights on Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Air Tahiti as well as domestic flights between the islands with our national carrier Air Rarotonga.

It's the accessibility and ease of everything that makes Rarotonga so different from other South Pacific island destinations. Just 32 km in circumference, you can drive around the island in 40 minutes. With a wide range of scenery, activities, accommodation, restaurants and cafes, no matter where you are or what you want to do, the whole island is your playground.

Only a 50-minute flight north of Rarotonga, it’s spectacularly beautiful, with a triangular-shaped reef surrounding a bright turquoise lagoon containing 15 small motus (islets). The crystal-clear water is home to an array of tropical fish and its pristine white-sand beaches are private and secluded. Tony Wheeler, founder of Lonely Planet, has said Aitutaki boasts, “the world’s most beautiful lagoon.”

For the truly adventurous in spirit, the undeveloped outer islands have a remote, unspoiled appeal for the explorer, author and artist in all of us. Seven sister islands are in the rest of the southern group and six more lie to the north. Some are accessible by local flights, all are accessible by boat occasionally. Off the beaten track, and spread over 700,000 square miles of the South Pacific Ocean, their uniqueness and timelessness are their own reward.

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COMMENTS

  1. Island Hopper Vacations Cook Islands

    Welcome to the Cook Islands online reservation system. Here you can book any hotel, motel, house, airline, transfer, activity, tour etc in the Cook Islands including Rarotonga, Aitutaki and other islands. ... With 3 offices including a retail travel agency, an airport arrival office and the Reservations & Customer Service division, Island ...

  2. Go Cook Islands

    Go Cook Islands - Travel Agent. Go Cook Islands provides the personalized service where they work towards renting the appropriate Holiday Home for your family, be it just for a weekend or for the entire week. With the increasing accommodation options on vacations more & more people are selecting a rental Holiday Home or a Beach Bach rather than ...

  3. Welcome to Turama Pacific Travel

    For over 30 years, we have built trust and credibility with more than 350 wholesalers and tour operators around the world. With a team of over 70 friendly and knowledgeable Cook Islands staff, Turama Pacific Travel Group offers online booking technology, dedicated market representatives and long-established customer loyalty.

  4. Specialists

    If you need any help with bringing your travel plans together, get in touch with a Travel Specialist/Agent who has visited the Cook Islands. First Name Last Name Company State Phone Email; Jane : Osborne : Downunder Travel Ltd (604) 742-0777 [email protected] View Profile: Doreen : Lipinski : AZ :

  5. Cook Islands Travel Agents

    Cook Islands Travel Agents There are 81 agents matching this search These trusted travel agents belong to North America's #1 Travel Agent Network and can provide custom tailored trips, personalized recommendations, detailed knowledge of destinations and exclusive deals and amenities.

  6. Cook Islands Tours & Vacations

    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 ...

  7. Home

    Only 18,000 people live in the Cook Islands. It's so easy to engage with the warm local Māori people and enjoy wide open beaches and clear turquoise lagoons. ... or your local travel agent. View Deals. View Packages. Accommodation. Choose from a range of accommodation options. Luxury villas, resorts, hotels and holiday homes & apartments. We ...

  8. Home

    Welcome to the Cook Islands. Visiting the Cook Islands just got easier with non-stop flights available via Auckland, Pape'ete, Honolulu and Sydney. The 15 islands of the Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific, in the same time zone as Hawai'i. An unspoiled paradise, complete with white sand beaches, blue lagoons, and lush green mountains ...

  9. Cook Islands Travel Agents

    Browse reviews for 74 Cook Islands Travel Agents. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Find the right agent for your trip. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and ...

  10. Island Hopper Vacations Cook Islands

    Island Hopper Vacations was established over 30 years ago, today the company operates with 3 offices including a retail travel agency, an airport arrival office and Reservations & Customer Service division. Island Hopper Vacations continues to offer the most comprehensive tourism product range of the Cook Islands, a complete product catalogue of Holiday Packages with activities, tourist ...

  11. About Us

    Cook Islands holidays are our specialty & our passion! &. Cook Islands Escapes is a specialist division of Island Escapes, a boutique wholesale and retail travel agency specialising in travel to the beautiful Cook Islands. We pride ourselves on maintaining outstanding levels of personal service and offering quality product and competitive prices.

  12. Cook Islands Beach Vacations Travel Agents

    Browse reviews for 59 Cook Islands Beach Vacations Travel Agents. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Find the right agent for your trip. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media ...

  13. Cook Islands Adventure

    Cook Islands Adventure. From. USD $3,330. View dates and book. The best small group tour means you'll travel the local way. Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today.

  14. Cook Islands Pocket Guide

    Plan your holiday to the Cook Islands on this fast and free travel guide to Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, just a click or tap away in your browser. Whether you're planning a family vacation to Rarotonga, a couple's getaway or even backpacking, we have all the answers to your questions about the Cook Islands right here.

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    Zero worries. Endless memories. Crafting dream vacations for over 50 years. Discover trips to Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, New Zealand, and Tahiti. ESCAPE THE ORDINARY | The Pacific Islands runs in our blood. Discover Tahiti, Fiji and the Cook Islands. Experience the Maldives, and Islands of Asia. Custom vacations designed for you.

  16. Specialist Travel Agents for Cook Islands

    PO Box 947 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone/fax: 682 21530. Island Hopper Vacations Ltd, PO Box 240 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone: 682 22-026 Fax: 682 22-036 Telex: 62036 Jetsave Travel Cook Islands, e-mail: [email protected] PO Box 40 Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Phone: 682 27-707 Fax: 682 28-807. Website: www.jetsave.co.ck Pacific agents

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

    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.

  18. Cook Islands Travel Agents

    Browse reviews for 76 Cook Islands Travel Agents. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Find the right agent for your trip. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and ...

  19. Top Cook Islands Travel Agents

    Contact specialist Cook Islands travel agents to get customised package quotes, discounted rates and local advice for your trip. TripCrafters has a trusted network of 3000+ travel agents. TripCrafters connects you with up to 3 Cook Islands travel agents who have deep knowledge about travel to Cook Islands.

  20. Special Offers

    Plan ahead and make the most of our Early Bird Special. Book 5 nights or more at least 60 days out from your arrival date and receive 25% off your stay. Book with Confidence COVID-19 Flexible Travel Policy: no deposit / book now / pay later. From: $ 137 *.

  21. Travel Destination Cook Islands

    Located in the heart of the South Pacific, the Cook Islands enjoy a warm and sunny climate all year round. While there isn't a bad time to visit the Cook Islands, the drier months of April to November are considered ideal with an average daily high of 26 degrees celsius. The temperatures between December and March range between 22 degrees ...

  22. Cook Islands

    The Cook Islands lies halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, boasting an idyllic climate, endless adventure, romance and pure relaxation. And getting here is easy with flights on Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Air Tahiti as well as domestic flights between the islands with our national carrier Air Rarotonga.

  23. Specialist Programme

    New Zealand Online Travel Training. Learn More. Australia Online Travel Training. Learn More. United States Online Travel Training. ... The information on this website is presented in good faith and on the basis that Cook Islands Tourism Marketing Corporation (CIT), nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission ...