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Mangaia

The Cook Islands, Oceania

Mangaia, the oldest inhabited island in the Cook Islands, is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, rich cultural heritage, and unique limestone landscapes. With attractions like the ancient Marae (sacred sites), lush hiking trails, and welcoming local communities, Mangaia offers an authentic escape into nature and tradition. Visitors can explore the dramatic cliffs and discover rare wildlife in its natural habitat, making it a truly captivating destination for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Rarotonga

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Mangaia

1. Explore the Mangaia Caves

Discover stunning limestone caves with unique formations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit the local markets

Experience local culture through vibrant food and crafts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Snorkel at the reefs

Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

4. Hike to the highest point

Enjoy panoramic views from Mangaia's highest peak.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

5. Attend a cultural dance show

Immerse yourself in traditional Cook Islands dance.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

6. Explore the ancient marae

Visit sacred sites that tell Mangaia's history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Relax at the beaches

Unwind on pristine beaches with soft sand.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

8. Fish in the lagoon

Catch local fish while enjoying tranquil waters.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Rarotongan

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Umukai

Traditional underground cooked feast. (National dish)

Ika Mata

Raw fish marinated in lime and coconut.

Rukau

VE

Taro leaves cooked in coconut cream.

Poke

Marinated raw fish with coconut and vegetables.

Banana Poke

VE

Banana dessert with coconut and sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Rarotongan

Hello

Kia Orana

(Kee-ah o-rah-nah)

Yes/No

Ae / Kare

(Eye / Kah-reh)

Thank you

Meitaki

(Meh-ee-tah-kee)

Excuse me

Aroa mai

(Ah-roh-ah my)

How much?

E hia?

(Eh hee-ah)