Cook Islands in one minute
The Polynesian lagoon experience with fewer crowds and a relaxed pace. Most visitors split their time between Rarotonga, the main island, and Aitutaki, home of one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Pacific.
Go if you want
- Lagoons, snorkeling and a slow pace
- Small guesthouses and self-catering stays at fair prices
- A trip that is easy to organise from New Zealand
Think twice if you want
- Big nightlife or shopping: it is a quiet place
- Dramatic mountains and waterfalls on every island: Tahiti has more
- Cheap flights: international seats are limited
Our ratings
Odali editorial scores out of 5.
When to go
May to October is drier and cooler. November to April is hotter and more humid, with a cyclone risk, mainly January to March. Humpback whales visit Rarotonga from July to October.
Day-by-day plans
Pick your length. One island base is fine, but Aitutaki deserves a night or two.
Where to stay
Rarotonga is the practical base. Add Aitutaki for the lagoon, and stay one or two nights rather than a rushed day.
Best valueGuesthouse or self-catering
Many guesthouses and self-catering stays offer very good value, with a kitchen and a beach nearby.
Compare guesthousesEasiest baseMuri Lagoon stay
Muri Lagoon has calm water for snorkeling and kayaking, with restaurants and cafes within walking distance.
Compare Muri staysComfortAitutaki beach resort
The best way to enjoy the lagoon without rushing. Book interisland flights early in busy periods.
See Aitutaki staysOur advice
Base yourself in Rarotonga for the first nights, then add one or two nights on Aitutaki. Check current rates and reviews before booking.
Your guesthouse or hotel here
Reach travellers while they choose where to sleep in Cook Islands.
Promote your businessYour tour or car rental here
Put your service in front of people planning their days.
Promote your businessThings to do
Prices are indicative ranges. Confirm with the operator.
Bucket listAitutaki lagoon cruise
A vast turquoise lagoon dotted with small islets. A day cruise with snorkeling is the classic experience.
Compare lagoon cruisesFreeMuri Lagoon
Calm water for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking, with equipment rentals on the beach.
Stay near MuriCross-Island Track
A rewarding hike through the interior. Wear proper shoes and go with a guide if it rained.
Compare guided walksRound-island ride
One coastal road of about 32 km. A local riding licence is required, so check the rules on arrival.
Add a scooter to my budgetIsland night and night markets
Night markets and island nights show local food, music and dance.
Compare island nightsWhere to eat
Eat at the night markets, try fresh fish and keep one evening for an island night.
Night markets
Grilled fish, curries and desserts from stalls in the evening. Bring cash.
Beach cafes
Casual cafes along the coast serve fresh fish, burgers and smoothies.
Restaurant dinners
Sit-down restaurants with sea views fill up in high season. Book for the last evening.
What to order
- Ika mata: raw fish with coconut milk and lime
- Rukau: taro leaves in coconut cream
- Fresh fish: grilled, often wahoo or tuna
What it costs
Build your own estimate. Ranges are indicative and exclude flights.
Includes rooms, local meals and the activities you picked. Open-ended prices are shown as a starting price.
Check live pricesBefore you go
Book interisland flights early
Seats to Aitutaki sell out in busy periods.
Check scooter rules
A local riding licence is required. Check the rules on arrival.
Mind the cyclone season
Risk is highest between January and March. Check forecasts and insurance.
Carry some cash
Currency is the New Zealand dollar, plus local coins. Markets prefer cash.
Stay on Aitutaki a night
A night or two is better than a rushed day trip.
Protect the lagoon
Use reef-safe sunscreen and do not stand on coral.
How many days do I need in the Cook Islands?
Five to eight days let you enjoy Rarotonga and add Aitutaki.
Do I need a scooter?
A scooter or car makes the single coastal road easy. A local riding licence is required, so check the rules on arrival.
Is Aitutaki worth the flight?
Yes, for one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Pacific. Stay at least a night.
When are the whales here?
Humpback whales visit Rarotonga from July to October.
Book Cook Islands
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Prices and schedules change: confirm with airlines, ferries, operators and hotels before booking. Illustration of the Aitutaki lagoon for guidance only. Prices and schedules change: confirm with airlines and operators before booking.