Cook Islands holidays are an experience of a lifetime. The Cook Islands are a stunning necklace of islands in the sun and are the jewel in the crown of the South Pacific island groups. The culture, traditions, arts and crafts are distinct from all others in the Pacific. The Cook Islands are like nowhere else, you feel so naturally at one with the island way of life. And how cool is a government that legislates that no building can be higher than the tallest coconut palm?
Another great bonus with Cook Islands tourism over neighbouring
French Polynesia is the local currency, the New Zealand dollar, which has a most attractive exchange rate against the US dollar, UK pound or Australian Dollar. So, welcome to the Cook Islands, immerse yourself in another culture... another time. Kia manuia! - May good fortune shine on you!
The Cook Islands consists of 15 major islands. They are in the same time zone as
Hawaii and are said to have a similar feel to Hawaii before it became more developed. Captain James Cook named the islands the Hervey Islands in 1773 however they came to be known as the Cook Islands in honour of him from about 1820. The Cook Islands are politically linked with New Zealand.
Cook Islands Tourist AttractionsIsland Discovery TourThe Island Discovery Tour is the perfect way to explore Rarotonga and get to know where everything is before heading out to explore Rarotonga on your own. Some of the activities on these half day Cook Islands tours includes visiting some of Rarotonga's sacred sites, Limestone Churches, Inland Villages and Plantations and the site of the 7 Canoes.
Captain Tama`s Lagoon Cruise
Captain Tama's Muri Lagoon Cruise is undoubtedly one of the best ways to enjoy the protected lagoon of Rarotonga. On this Cook Islands tour, you will board a glass bottom boat and cruise out over world renown Muri Lagoon to the inner reef area where the marine life is abundant. Enjoy snorkelling, hand fish feeding and a fresh fish BBQ lunch on Koromiri Island complete with a song and show.
Aitutaki Day Tour
The Aitutaki Day Tour is a full day excursion featuring one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Aitutaki is a simply stunning and beautiful destination and a visit to this island is a 'must do' for anyone visiting the Cook Islands. On these Cook Islands tours, enjoy a lagoon cruise and BBQ lunch, visit One Foot Island, snorkel and visit the main township of Arutanga, the market place and the inland villages.
Highland Paradise
Travel with Tipani Tours high into the rugged mountains of Rarotonga to view the spectacular 180 degree ocean views. This Cook Islands tour visits a historical lost village where you can learn the ancient survival techniques and relive the traditional way of life of the Polynesian people. Cultural activities will be on display from coconut husking to traditional cooking demonstrations.
Tangaroa 4 x 4 Tour
Tangaroa 4 x 4 Tour is an exciting half day adventure into the interior of the island of Rarotonga. This Cook Islands Tour takes you inland to discover the lush tropical interior of the island. Visit Avatiu Valley where you will see the volcanic pinnacle of the Needle, drive to the top of Hospital Hill, visit some of Rarotonga's sacred sites, see taro plantations and enjoy the fantastic views from Aroko Heights.
Cook Islands activities include swimming in the beautiful clear water, snorkelling and diving, surfing and exploring the nature trails and wildlife of this exquisite part of the planet. Sightseeing, day tours and cruises are available that take in the culture and natural wonders around the Cook Islands.
The Cook Islands are in the South Pacific Ocean and are self governed in a free association with New Zealand. Therefore the New Zealand Queen's Representitive is the Head of State and the Chief Minister is the Head of Government. While there are 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands, the actual land mass only covers 240 km². This is tiny compared to the water coverage which is over 1.8 million km². The Islands were formed by volcanic activity and helped develop 2 reefs and 6 atolls.
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Cook Island map |
There are several hotels, motels and resorts located on the largest of the Cook Islands - Rarotonga. The capital of the Cook Islands - Avarua - is located on the north side of Rarotonga. Rarotonga also has the majority of the population and is surrounded by a lagoon that meets the reef in some areas. After the reef, the ocean floor slopes away quickly and on the north side of the island the reef meets the beach and is unsuitable for swimming and snorkelling. On the south side of Rarotonga is Muri Beach where the lagoon is at its deepest and widest. The area is perfect for all kinds of water sports.