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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: NZD
- Languages: English, Cook Islands Māori (Rarotongan), some French
- Climate: Tropical
- Timezone: Pacific/Rarotonga
- Population: Approximately 17,500 people
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is during the dry season (April to November).
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, UK, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa for stays up to 31 days. Visitors must hold a valid passport, return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds. Visa on arrival is generally not available; e-visas are not commonly used. Travelers should check specific entry requirements before travel as rules may vary.
About Cook Islands
The Cook Islands offer a unique South Pacific paradise characterized by crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical landscapes. This self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand is composed of 15 small islands scattered over a vast ocean area, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and Polynesian culture. The islands blend traditional Cook Islands Māori heritage with modern hospitality, offering visitors warm welcomes and authentic cultural experiences. Tourists are drawn to the Cook Islands for its pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, and relaxed island lifestyle. The main island, Rarotonga, features mountainous rainforests and a lively local scene, while outer islands like Aitutaki are famed for their stunning lagoons and seclusion. Visitors can enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural festivals, and gourmet island cuisine. The Cook Islands are ideal for honeymooners, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a peaceful tropical setting.
Top Attractions
1. Aitutaki Lagoon – Known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and boat tours. 2. Te Vara Nui Village – A cultural center on Rarotonga offering traditional dance performances and Polynesian feasts. 3. Muri Beach – A popular beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. 4. Takitumu Conservation Area – A nature reserve with walking trails showcasing native flora and fauna. 5. Maire Nui Botanical Gardens – A lush garden featuring native plants and guided tours about local ecology.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving in vibrant coral reefs, lagoon cruises, and fishing excursions. Hiking trails through rainforests and volcanic peaks offer scenic views and wildlife spotting. Cultural experiences include attending traditional dance shows, craft markets, and participating in local festivals. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular recreational activities. The Cook Islands also offer bird watching, cycling around Rarotonga, and visiting archaeological sites.
Cook Islands Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: 1. Aitutaki Lagoon – Known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and boat tours. 2. Te Vara Nui Village – A cultural center on Rarotonga offering traditional dance performances and Polynesian feasts. 3. Muri Beach – A popular beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. 4. Takitumu Conservation Area – A nature reserve with walking trails showcasing native flora and fauna. 5. Maire Nui Botanical Gardens – A lush garden featuring native plants and guided tours about local ecology.
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving in vibrant coral reefs, lagoon cruises, and fishing excursions. Hiking trails through rainforests and volcanic peaks offer scenic views and wildlife spotting. Cultural experiences include attending traditional dance shows, craft markets, and participating in local festivals. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming are popular recreational activities. The Cook Islands also offer bird watching, cycling around Rarotonga, and visiting archaeological sites.
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is during the dry season (April to November). Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. Respect local customs such as modest dress when visiting villages and churches. The Cook Islands are generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash in New Zealand dollars is widely used; credit cards are accepted in many places but carry some cash for remote areas. Internet access can be limited outside main towns.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $180
28 Available Tour Excursions in Cook Islands
Arrive in Rarotonga to the warm welcome of Raro Tours. You will receive a fresh flower ei (garland) and a chilled bottle of water on arrival, followed by a comfortable ride to your accommodation in one of our air conditioned buses. Transfers are available to all major accommodations on Rarotonga and children welcome when accompanied by an adult.
Price: $34.86
Duration:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the island with our Coco Brush Cultural Classes. Choose from a tropical-style paint-and-sip session, a weaving workshop to create your traditional lei, or a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes. Whichever class you choose, you will have the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the island while creating your unique masterpiece.
Price: $67.15
Duration: 2 hours
Capture memories of a lifetime with a special photo shoot in paradise with your significant other or family. Includes at least 50 photos sent to you in a downloadable album.
Price: $329.66
Duration: 1 hours
Experience the THRILL of snorkelling with Eagle Rays and Turtles. We take you to Rarotonga's Healthiest Snorkelling Spot that is only accessible with a local Guide. Get up close and personal with thriving Marine Life and go home with Premium World Class Photography on an online Gallery Link. We take those new to swimming or snorkelling and can teach everyone free diving techniques to get the photos you'll want to show the WORLD! This activity is for those wanting an EPIC underwater ADVENTURE alongside an experienced and knowledgeable team.
Price: $141.02
Duration: 1 hours
From sun-soaked beaches to lush fresh water rain forests, I'll provide guidance on poses, lighting, and locations, ensuring that every moment is beautifully preserved. Get ready to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable session where your true essence shines through, resulting in a collection of stunning portraits that capture the spirit of Rarotonga and the beauty within you. Let's embark on this creative journey together and create photographs that will be treasured memories for a lifetime.
Price: $366.29
Duration: 1 hours
Exploring the marine life with a sea-scooter is by far the most fun, unique and safest way to swim with the turtles. At Moana Sea Scooters, we know time is of the essence so instead of wasting time 'swimming' to the turtles, the sea-scooters offer you a quicker way to reach them. What sets Moana Sea Scooters apart is our commitment to providing an exclusive and personal adventure with the use of Fun Sea-scooters. We're locally owned and operated, ensuring that you receive an authentic island experience. To maintain an intimate atmosphere, we limit each tour to 4-6 people. This means you get to savour the moment, soak in the beauty of the sea, and create lasting memories without the crowds. Moana Sea Scooters is not just a tour; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, immerse yourself in a world of marine wonders, and make memories that will leave you yearning for more. Dive in with us today and experience the ocean like never before. Your adventure of a lifetime awaits!
Price: $109.89
Duration: 1 hours
Don't miss a fantastic day out on Muri Lagoon! Since 1992, we have been offering our Muri Lagoon cruise and sharing our tropical island playground with visitors to Muri Beach, Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. We certainly know how to have a good time and would love to bring you along! Join us on this wonderful lagoon cruise that includes a delicious BBQ lunch! Enjoy snorkeling in the clear water while keeping an eye out for Charlie the huge Moray Eel and colorful tropical fish!
Price: $70.21
Duration: 4 hours
Swim with the turtles and discover a new way to explore Rarotonga’s marine environments with our experienced team, snorkeling with an Ariki Sea Scooter!
Price: $115.95
Duration: 2 hours
Cycle along the 'back road' (Ara Metua) and lane ways witnessing the tranquil pace of local village life. There are plenty of stops to take in the magnificent mountain scenery, try out a few local fruits, and hear stories that will bring a deeper meaning to the observations you make. You will be cycling on and off over a leisurely 3 hours, before finishing up with a delicious light lunch. Total duration is approximately 4 hours. Small group size means that each tour is unique and tailored to suit the interests of those doing the tour on the day.
Price: $72.65
Duration: 4 hours
Explore the stunning Rarotongan lagoons with our experienced team, snorkeling amongst schools of fish and coral on an Ariki Sea Scooter!
Price: $85.47
Duration: 2 hours
Swim with turtles at our top-rated snorkeling spot in Rarotonga! Encounter majestic turtles, vibrant coral gardens, and a variety of tropical fish. Our all-inclusive 2-hour experience includes: Guaranteed Turtle Encounters Premium Gear & Expert Guidance Enjoy Local Refreshments 100% Safety Record Hassle-Free Parking Secure Storage for your Valuables Established in 2018 Visit our tropical paradise soon!
Price: $43.47
Duration: 2 hours
Cycle at a relaxed pace with your small group for four hours along the 'back road' - Ara Metua, lane ways and occasional gentle terrain bush tracks. You will experience the tranquil pace of local village life, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are plenty of stops along the way where your tour guide will tell you more about what you are seeing and experiencing. The 'explore' tour concludes with a delicious local lunch at the beach, where you can have a swim to cool off. Small group sizes make each tour unique. Please see www.storytellers.co.ck for more information about this and other tours, as well as supplier direct pricing and discounted tour bundles.
Price: $84.86
Duration: 5 hours
Our two hour snorkeling experience includes an “island hour” of beach entry snorkeling with turtles and an abundance of reef life. All you need to bring is your swimwear and a towel. We supply all the equipment. A moderate level of swimming confidence and fitness is recommended to enjoy our guided tour.
Price: $54.33
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the amazing electric blues of the open ocean while sea scootering around a 100 year old shipwreck! Experience the power of our sea scooters as they assist you to glide through our ocean paradise. Chance encounters with Sea Turtles, Humpback Whales (in season), Reef Sharks, Giant Trevally and so much more await just beyond the Avarua dock in this open ocean adventure.
Price: $94.63
Duration: 2 hours
Rarotonga is one of the most pristine dive destinations in the world - with spectacular coral formations, hundreds of species of fish, turtles, eagle rays and even visiting whales. The shallow lagoon is renowned as an excellent place to snorkel among its abundant, colorful fish and other marine wildlife. Whatever your snorkeling experience, this service makes it accessible and worry-free. Come enjoy a fun-filled family adventure and experience all the underwater beauty of Rarotonga.
Price: $67.15
Duration: 2 hours
International Airport Transfer (Seat In Coach) Airport to all hotels / resorts and holiday homes with amazing a warm local customer service. Inclusions are Meet & Greet by Cook Islands Tours Staff member on arrival, flower Lei (Ei), Cool face towelette and chilled bottle of water.
Price: $22.59
Duration:
Who says divers get all the fun? Grab your snorkel and join a guided tour for a 90-minute underwater adventure through Rarotonga’s healthiest reef ecosystem! Whether you’re a snorkeller or a confident free diver, this epic Turtle Tour is your chance to swim alongside majestic Green Sea Turtles and the rare, endangered Hawksbill Turtle — all while exploring vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical marine life. You’ll be exploring the legendary Passage, a natural channel that feels like a living, breathing aquarium. Expect crystal-clear waters, curious reef fish, and coral so colourful you’ll wish you brought two underwater cameras. We provide Premium Equipment, Small Groups, Assistance in the water, and a brief introduction to the Passage you will be exploring. Our experienced local guides are right by your side the entire time, offering in-water assistance, spotting sea life, and sharing fun facts about the ocean creatures who call this place home.
Price: $117.82
Duration: 1 hours
Explore Rarotonga from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach as our experienced, local guide takes you on a fascinating 3 hour sightseeing tour. You will travel along the ancient Ara Metua or "Road of Toi" built in 1050 AD and visit ancient marae (ceremonial sites), inland villages and plantations and the historical Avana point. This tour is a must do as soon as you arrive on the island, it is the perfect introduction to the islands' rich culture, legends and history.
Price: $61.05
Duration: 3 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Cook Islands.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Cook Islands cuisine is a flavorful blend of Polynesian and New Zealand influences, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables. Signature dishes include ika mata (raw fish marinated in coconut cream and lime), rukau (taro leaves cooked with coconut cream), and poke (octopus salad). Dining customs emphasize communal meals and sharing. Must-try foods include fresh coconut crab and tropical fruits like breadfruit and pawpaw. Noteworthy restaurants include Tamarind House for upscale dining and The Mooring for fresh seafood with lagoon views.
Getting Around
The Cook Islands are accessible by air primarily via Rarotonga International Airport, with flights from New Zealand, Australia, and other Pacific nations. Local transportation includes rental cars, scooters, taxis, and buses on Rarotonga. Outer islands are reached by small planes or boats. Getting around Rarotonga is convenient by car or bike, with well-maintained roads. Costs for local transport are moderate; taxis are more expensive than buses.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is during the dry season (April to November). Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent. Respect local customs such as modest dress when visiting villages and churches. The Cook Islands are generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash in New Zealand dollars is widely used; credit cards are accepted in many places but carry some cash for remote areas. Internet access can be limited outside main towns.
Culture & Customs
Cook Islands culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions emphasizing family, respect, and community. Social customs include greeting with a warm "Kia Orana" and showing respect to elders. Traditional dance, music, and crafts are important cultural expressions. Significant festivals include Te Maeva Nui, celebrating Cook Islands’ self-governance with parades and performances. Visitors should dress modestly in villages, ask permission before photographing locals, and participate respectfully in cultural events.
