Cook Islands-5-day-itinerary

Cook Islands 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Island Orientation

  • Arrival: Fly into Rarotonga International Airport (RAR)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your chosen resort or hotel, such as the Edgewater Resort & Spa or the Pacific Resort Aitutaki
  • Island Tour: Take a guided island tour to get familiar with the local culture, history, and geography
    • Visit the Cook Islands National Museum to learn about the islands’ rich heritage
    • Stop by the Rarotonga Markets for a taste of local cuisine and handicrafts
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Polynesian dinner and watch a cultural show at your resort or a local restaurant

Day 2: Explore Rarotonga’s Coastline

  • Morning: Take a scenic drive along the coastal road to Muri Beach, one of the island’s most popular beaches
    • Swim in the crystal-clear waters or try snorkeling to spot tropical fish and coral
    • Relax at a beachside cafe or restaurant for lunch
  • Afternoon: Visit the Avana Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled in the interior of the island
    • Take a short hike through the lush forest to reach the waterfall’s base
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise around Rarotonga’s lagoon

Day 3: Island Hopping to Aitutaki

  • Morning: Fly from Rarotonga to Aitutaki (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your chosen resort or hotel, such as the Pacific Resort Aitutaki or the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa
  • Island Tour: Explore Aitutaki’s stunning lagoon and white sandy beaches on a guided tour
    • Visit the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort’s marine sanctuary to see an array of marine life
    • Stop by the local markets for some shopping and souvenir hunting
  • Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant

Day 4: Water Activities and Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a snorkeling or diving trip to Aitutaki’s coral reef, home to an incredible array of marine life
    • Spot sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish in their natural habitat
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach or by the pool at your resort
    • Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment or massage
  • Evening: Enjoy a cocktail party and BBQ dinner at your resort

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring Aitutaki’s village
  • Departure: Fly from Aitutaki back to Rarotonga (approximately 45 minutes) and then connect to your international flight home

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: No visa is required for stays up to 31 days. However, you must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
  • Transportation: Rent a car or scooter to explore the islands at your own pace. Alternatively, use taxi services or book guided tours that include transportation.
  • Currency: The New Zealand dollar is widely accepted in the Cook Islands. You can also exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Language: English and Maori are the official languages, but you’ll also hear the local dialect, Cook Islands Māori.
  • Weather: The Cook Islands have a tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).
  • Culture: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting villages or attending cultural events.

Other Things of Interest

  • Diving: Explore the Cook Islands’ incredible dive sites, including shipwrecks and coral reefs.
  • Fishing: Try your luck at catching some of the islands’ renowned seafood, such as tuna or marlin.
  • Hiking: Take a guided hike to explore the islands’ interior and scenic lookout points.
  • Food: Be sure to try some of the local specialties, including ika mata (raw fish in coconut cream), rukau (steamed taro), and kumara (sweet potato).