A group of 15 Islands and tiny atolls scattered widely across the bluest Pacific, this is the Cook Islands. Arriving here is like being on the deserted island of your dreams. However it is a mistake to think of the Cook Islands as a spectacular destination for just lying on the beach and snorkeling, it’s so much more than that.
Most people go to the CI as a stopover on their way to another destination on a Pacific trip. However there is so much to offer it’s a destination in its own right.
The Cook Islands climate is perfect all year round as there are no excesses of temperature, however September and October are considered the best time to visit with March and April a close second.
Rarotonga is the largest island, however even that only takes about an hour to circumnavigate by motor scooter. Make sure you visit some of the outer islands. Aitutaki is a stunning horseshoe shaped island with the most incredible lagoon. Other islands such as Aitu and Mangain are less traveled and have less infrastructure, however the rewards are extraordinary and include home grown coffee and spectacular underground caves.
The coral reefs especially in the lagoons of Rarotonga and Aitutaki are teeming with a wide variety of tropical fish and other marine animals. Outside the reefs it is easy to see Sea Turtles in their natural habitat.
The CI is not as expensive as Tahiti and marginally more than Fiji, this is mainly due to the fact that everything has to be shipped in. You can do the CI on a budget with some accommodation as low as NZD40 or you can splurge (like I did) and stay at some of the breaktakingly beautiful resorts, like the Pacific Resort properties.
Internet connectivity is available in the majority of accommodations however it is a bit slow.
Cook Islands Drivers License
“Battle bureaucracy on my holiday?” I hear you stay, however this very laid back adventure is a lot of fun.
With a quick practical test and you get a great souvenir to show your friends, pull it out the next time you rent a car back in the States!
Cross islands Trek
Make no mistake; the trek across the mountainous center of Rarotonga is a challenging experience. It takes about three hours, and the view from the Needles, a rock formation at the peak of the journey is stunning. Go with Pa the local healer, with his long blond dreadlocks, great stories and remedies make this a trip to remember.
Check out the video and see the friendliest people in the world and the amazing variety of activities, shopping and cultural discovery opportunities
