Southern Cook Islands

Rarotonga

Rarotonga, Cook Islands’ capital, is the youngest and most mountainous of this South Pacific archipelago of volcanic islands. It is an active hub bustling with daily island life, friendly locals and adventurous opportunity.

Get off the beaten track and become a part of an authentic South Seas culture; The Cook Islands and Rarotonga are far removed from many synthesised South Pacific alternatives. Immerse yourself in island activities, music, dancing, arts, crafts, market shopping, black pearls, fresh food and more.

Kick-start your Cook Island vacation on Rarotonga with a visit to the Visitor Information Centre. Here you will be able to pick up your Cook Island maps and travel info, and book your Rarotonga car rental, flight around the archipelago, boat and water sports hire, and of course your Cook Island hotel, resort or private rental. The capital island also allows you to access a great range of Cook Island travellers’ services including banks and amenities, and you can speak with operators for Cook Islands cruise liners, tours and charters.

Rarotonga provides the best of island activities including sailing, fishing, swimming, surfing, windsurfing, hiking, biking and caving. Arguably, some of the world’s best snorkelling and scuba diving is also found here with a popular lagoon, underwater caves, corals and reef fish, wrecks, and the highlight a volcanic drop-off 12,000ft deep.

Hear soaring harmonies at a Sunday morning church service or reel to rhythmic drumming and untamed sensuous dancing at all major hotels or traditional festivals to experience the heart and soul of the Cook Islands.