Four Ways to Discover the Cook Islands

A hidden gem in the heart of the South Pacific, the Cook Islands has an experience for every traveller. Whether you want to explore underwater, on the water or deep within the jungle, the diverse natural terrain of this archipelago makes it easy to holiday your way.

Laidback, culturally immersive or adventure-packed? The Cook Islands offers it all. Here are four ways to discover paradise in the Cook Islands.

Lagoon Cruises

Imagine yourself aboard a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe, gently gliding over the mesmerising turquoise waters of the Cook Islands’ famous lagoons. A lagoon cruise is an absolute must-do while holidaying in the Cook Islands, with tours operating in both Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Whichever you choose, expect a sun-soaked day filled with swimming, snorkelling, live music, cultural entertainment and a barbecue lunch.

On Rarotonga, Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes are a popular choice, offering half-day tours of the pristine Muri Lagoon. Sailing aboard a glass bottomed boat, you’ll have a front row seat to the lagoon’s colourful fish and marine life, including moray eels, giant clams, angel fish and – if you’re lucky – sea turtles.

Just a 50-minute flight from Rarotonga is Aitutaki Island, famously home to the ‘World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon’. Sprinkled across this turquoise, sunlit lagoon are 15 motus (islets), whose remote, palm-fringed beaches can only be described as postcard perfect. Most Aitutaki Lagoon cruises include a stop at One Foot Island, where you can get your passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office!

Island Adventures

Contrary to popular belief, the Cook Islands are so much more than just beautiful beaches and sparkling lagoons. In fact, the interior of the Cook Islands offers a wealth of natural wonders, from verdant jungles to rugged mountain trails. Think Jurassic Park without the dinosaurs!

For a taste of adrenaline-fueled adventure, consider exploring inland Rarotonga on a quad bike or 4WD tour. Raro Safari Tours half-day 4WD tour gives you the chance to venture beyond tourist hotspots. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, travel deep into the heart of Rarotonga’s wilderness, exploring cascading waterfalls and sacred historical sites along the way.

The Cook Islands are also a hiker’s paradise, with several guided and self-guided trails to explore. Avid hikers can challenge themselves to the Cross Island Trek, a scenic trail that traverses Rarotonga’s lush interior from north to south. This hike takes approximately three hours to complete, and ends at Papua Waterfall, the perfect spot for a rewarding dip. For something a little less strenuous, the Arore Mountain Trail takes just 60 minutes return and offers sweeping views across Muri Lagoon and the Raro’s jungle-clad mountains.

Underwater Fun

The astounding views in the Cook Islands continue as you dive beneath the surface. Impressive water clarity and warm temperatures make it easy to get up close and personal with the hundreds of colourful fish species and 73 types of live coral that call the Cook Islands home. Explore this underwater playground by snorkelling right off the beach, joining a diving tour or jumping on a sea scooter.

The main island, Rarotonga, has no shortage of easily-accessible snorkelling spots, including Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve, Muri Lagoon and Black Rock. Plus, as a volcanic plateau that drops off into a 4,500 metre abyss, there are also plenty of scuba diving sites to discover near Rarotonga. If you’ve never been diving before, why not take the opportunity to get PADI certified in the Cook Islands?

Another exciting way to explore the Cook Islands’ underwater world is on a sea scooter tour. The Ariki Adventures Turtle Sea Scooter Safari takes you into deeper lagoon waters, where turtles, eagle rays, moray eels and reef sharks are found. Each sea scooter is lightweight and equipped with a three level speed button, meaning that you are in control of your experience.

Cultural Experiences

No holiday to the Cook Islands is complete without immersing in the thriving local culture. Here, ancient Polynesian culture is celebrated in everyday life, and locals are more than happy to share their traditions with visitors. From traditional dance performances to hands-on craft workshops, cultural experiences abound in the Cook Islands, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the region’s unique heritage.

One of the best ways to connect with authentic Cook Islands culture is during a village tour. Highland Paradise is an award-winning valley village that offers a glimpse into what life in the Cook Islands was like 600 years ago. During a guided tour of the village, hear stories of tribal warfare and navigation, partake in activities like weaving and drumming, and enjoy a traditional lunch.

Island nights also offer an authentic cultural experience. Offered at resorts and hotels across Rarotonga and Aitutaki, watch as passionate Cook Islanders share their history and traditions through music, song and dance. You’ll also get the chance to sample local flavours during an umu feast, where food is cooked in an underground oven.

Discover paradise in the Cook Islands

There are so many ways to discover paradise in the Cook Islands. Escape reality with My Holiday’s handcrafted Cook Islands packages, including return flights, stays at the best beachfront resorts and plenty of Bonus Value extras.

Set your clocks to island time and explore our exclusive Cook Island escapes.

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