The Best Tropical Islands: Cook Islands


This south pacific island group is pretty far off the map. OK, not too far but they are considerably less visited than some of its neighbors. These tiny islands are named after James Cook, the intrepid man who discovered them. With few amenities, this place is the best place to find your inner cast away and escape modern life. This is the place to find peace and quiet among the palm trees.

Quick Facts
Capital: Rarotonga
Population: 21,388
Size: 240 sq km
Power Outlets: 240V 50Hz
Official Languages: Maori, English
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Time Zone: GMT -10
Religion: Christian
Calling Code: +682

When to go: The best times of year to visit are around September and October and March and April, after the cyclone season has passed.

Cost and Budgeting
You can travel comfortably in the Cook Islands, staying at the top-end lodges and eating at the best restaurants, for US$250 to US$300 a day or more, depending on whether you hit more than two or three islands. Moderate travel will run closer to US$110 to US$150 a day. Budget travelers can squeak by for well under US$50 a day if they stick to inexpensive accommodation and restaurants. Budget rooms start at US$10-22. Meals starts at US$4-9.

There’s a value added tax of 12.5%. Tipping isn’t a custom in the islands, and haggling over prices is considered extremely rude.



Things to Do and See in the Cook Islands
Scuba Dive- Surrounded by reefs and vast array of coral and wildlife, The Cook Islands, make it an excellent spot to go diving.
Snorkel in a lagoon- The Cook Islands are filled with tiny lagoons teeming with wildlife. Immerse yourself.
Relax and enjoy yourself- The islands are not highly populated, so escape modern life and just let the days flow by.
Explore Anatakitaki- The most famous of the many caves on ‘Atiu, which is riddled with limestone caverns complete with stalactites and stalagmites,
Visit Aitutaki Lagoon- Aitutaki’s marvelous lagoon, dotted with sand bars and coral ridges, is colorful and full of life.
Avarua - Spread out along a beautiful harbour, bussling Avarua is Rarotonga’s main commercial area. There are a full range of visitor services including a post office, banks, shops, cafés, restaurants, supermarkets and night spots. Gamefishing charters depart from Avatiu Harbour as well.
Explore the Caves - There are spectacular caves that house many ancient burial sites for the adventurer at heart. Te Ana O Raka burial cave is easy to find but a guide is necesssary, while Rima Rau has many bones. Anatakitaki Cave, also known as Kopeka Cave, is home to the kopeka - a rare native swallow. On Mauke and Mitiaro, the makatea caves have freshwater pools ideal for swimming.
Horseback Riding -Riding is a popular option for exploring the lush inland areas of Rarotonga, with their tropical plantations and waterfalls. you can complete your ride along the beach.


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