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Rarotonga

The Cook Islands, Oceania

Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, enchants visitors with its azure lagoons, lush mountains, and welcoming culture. Known for its breathtaking beaches like Muri Beach, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, and rich Polynesian heritage, Rarotonga offers a slice of paradise. Explore the island’s lush interiors on hiking trails, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in traditional island life at the weekly market. Its laid-back vibe and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers and beach lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Rarotonga

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

12 Best Things to Do in Rarotonga

1. Snorkel in Aroa Marine Reserve

Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Hike to the Needle

Trek to a stunning viewpoint of the island.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

3. Visit the Punanga Nui Market

Experience local culture through food and crafts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Discover Muri Lagoon

Relax or kayak in crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Attend a Traditional Island Night

Enjoy Polynesian culture through dance and cuisine.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

6. Explore the Rarotonga Cultural Village

Learn about the island's history and traditions.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Go on a Lagoon Cruise

Sail through the lagoons and snorkel at reefs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

8. Visit the Te Vara Nui Waterfall

Enjoy a scenic spot and local flora.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Join a Fishing Charter

Catch local fish in the Pacific waters.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

5 hrs

10. Relax at Black Rock Beach

Unwind on a beautiful sandy beach.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

11. Explore the Ara Metua

Walk along ancient pathways of the island.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

12. Visit the Cook Islands National Museum

Discover the rich heritage of the Cook Islands.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

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)