The Cook Islands sit 3 hours east by plane of New Zealand, in the vast openness of the Pacific Ocean. The group is made up of 15 islands, the capital island being Rarotonga (which is Polynesian for 'South Island').
Routes to the Cook Islands from both East and West
For European travellers, the Cook Islands are about as far away as a traveller can fly before they are on their way back. A typical route goes from Europe to a transit stop in Asia. Singapore and Hong Kong are the usual destinations. From there, a second long-haul flight to New Zealand takes takes the traveller most of the way to the Cook Islands. Finally, a 3 hour flight from Auckland to Rarotonga is the final leg of the journey.
From the US, the route is more straight-forward, with regular flights from LA to Rarotonga being available with Air New Zealand. This makes Rarotonga a useful stopping point between Australasia and the Americas, giving travellers an opportunity to visit the Islands as part of a longer trip, such as a round-the-world holiday.
Rarotonga - The Main Island of the Cook Islands
Despite being the main island of the group, Rarotonga is tiny, just 20 miles in circumference. The center is thick jungle, although it is possible (and highly recommended) to try the cross-island trek. This leads from the north to the south sides of the island, via the highest point, a huge rock called 'the Needle'.
Around the circumference of Rarotonga is a good quality road, around which two buses travel (one clockwise, one anticlockwise). They are regular and cheap, although fairly slow.
By far the best way to travel around the island is by scooter, and dozens of rental companies offer competitive rates on daily or weekly rentals. All customers must, however, hold a valid Cook Islands driver's licence, available from the Rarotonga police station. Applicants must complete a short practical test, which typically involves riding around the block in the company of a police officer. If the rider avoids falling off the bike, they usually pass.
Once armed with transport, Rarotonga can be explored at will. Beautiful, quiet beaches beckon, as-well-as a host of Polynesian-themed attractions, such as the 'island nights' and traditional dancing.
Aitutaki - Arguably the Most Stunning Island in the Cook Islands
If the traveller is still able to stand the sight of an aeroplane, a short 45 minute flight with 'Air Rarotonga' (a good airline with excellent service) leads to the stunning island of Aitutaki. The island consists of dozens of smaller islands, enclosing a turquoise lagoon, measuring no more than 20 meters at its deepest point.
Accommodation in the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands cater for travellers of any budget. Cheap backpackers are available for as little as $15NZ per night. These low-end hostels are generally clean, but may have the odd ant-nest nearby. Many offer basic cooking facilities, and supermarkets are fairly common on the islands. This allows for cheap meals to be made and pricey restaurants to be avoided.
Mid range hotels also exist, but where the islands really excel is in their high-end resorts, offering private beaches, 5-star rooms and facilities, and outstanding service.
On Aitutaki, for example, there is the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa. Situated on its own small private island, guests are met from their flight by staff who offer fresh coconuts to drink and a garland of fresh flowers. The resort also offers private access to part of Aitutaki's stunning blue lagoon.
Booking.com
Are the Cook Islands Worth the Long Journey?
In brief, the Cook Islands are a fantastic holiday destination, regardless of the budget. Their remote location makes them a difficult destination for European travellers, but they are ideally situated for a Pacific transit, such as on a round-the-world trip.
Author George P.
Routes to the Cook Islands from both East and West
For European travellers, the Cook Islands are about as far away as a traveller can fly before they are on their way back. A typical route goes from Europe to a transit stop in Asia. Singapore and Hong Kong are the usual destinations. From there, a second long-haul flight to New Zealand takes takes the traveller most of the way to the Cook Islands. Finally, a 3 hour flight from Auckland to Rarotonga is the final leg of the journey.
From the US, the route is more straight-forward, with regular flights from LA to Rarotonga being available with Air New Zealand. This makes Rarotonga a useful stopping point between Australasia and the Americas, giving travellers an opportunity to visit the Islands as part of a longer trip, such as a round-the-world holiday.
Rarotonga - The Main Island of the Cook Islands
Despite being the main island of the group, Rarotonga is tiny, just 20 miles in circumference. The center is thick jungle, although it is possible (and highly recommended) to try the cross-island trek. This leads from the north to the south sides of the island, via the highest point, a huge rock called 'the Needle'.
Around the circumference of Rarotonga is a good quality road, around which two buses travel (one clockwise, one anticlockwise). They are regular and cheap, although fairly slow.
By far the best way to travel around the island is by scooter, and dozens of rental companies offer competitive rates on daily or weekly rentals. All customers must, however, hold a valid Cook Islands driver's licence, available from the Rarotonga police station. Applicants must complete a short practical test, which typically involves riding around the block in the company of a police officer. If the rider avoids falling off the bike, they usually pass.
Once armed with transport, Rarotonga can be explored at will. Beautiful, quiet beaches beckon, as-well-as a host of Polynesian-themed attractions, such as the 'island nights' and traditional dancing.
Aitutaki - Arguably the Most Stunning Island in the Cook Islands
If the traveller is still able to stand the sight of an aeroplane, a short 45 minute flight with 'Air Rarotonga' (a good airline with excellent service) leads to the stunning island of Aitutaki. The island consists of dozens of smaller islands, enclosing a turquoise lagoon, measuring no more than 20 meters at its deepest point.
Accommodation in the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands cater for travellers of any budget. Cheap backpackers are available for as little as $15NZ per night. These low-end hostels are generally clean, but may have the odd ant-nest nearby. Many offer basic cooking facilities, and supermarkets are fairly common on the islands. This allows for cheap meals to be made and pricey restaurants to be avoided.
Mid range hotels also exist, but where the islands really excel is in their high-end resorts, offering private beaches, 5-star rooms and facilities, and outstanding service.
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On Aitutaki, for example, there is the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa. Situated on its own small private island, guests are met from their flight by staff who offer fresh coconuts to drink and a garland of fresh flowers. The resort also offers private access to part of Aitutaki's stunning blue lagoon.
Booking.com
Are the Cook Islands Worth the Long Journey?
In brief, the Cook Islands are a fantastic holiday destination, regardless of the budget. Their remote location makes them a difficult destination for European travellers, but they are ideally situated for a Pacific transit, such as on a round-the-world trip.
Author George P.
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