The Cook Islands are a South Pacific paradise of 15 islands scattered across 2 million square kilometers of ocean. Rarotonga offers lush volcanic scenery and the main tourist hub, while Aitutaki boasts one of the world's most beautiful lagoons. With warm Polynesian hospitality, world-class snorkeling, and a refreshingly uncommercial atmosphere, the Cook Islands offer tropical perfection without the crowds.
Quick Facts
Recommended Stay10 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$200/day
Luxury$450/day
Known For
cook_islandsrarotongaaitutakisouth_pacificpolynesialagoonsnorkelinghoneymoontropicalbeachesone_foot_islandpacific_islands
🇨🇰 Country Information: Cook Islands
CapitalAvarua
CurrencyNew Zealand dollar ($)
Language English , Maori
Phone Code+682
Electricity240V (Type I)
Tap WaterSafe to drink
Tipping
\* Tipping is not customary in the Cook Islands and may be considered offensive; exceptional service can be acknowledged with a small gift or by simply saying 'Meitaki' (thank you)
Money & Payments
- ATMs are limited, primarily in Rarotonga and Aitutaki; bring cash for outer islands
- Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but cash is preferred for smaller vendors and markets
- It's better to bring a mix of NZD cash and a credit/debit card
- No black market for cash
Cultural Norms
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or churches
- Always ask for permission before taking photos of people
- It is considered rude to wear hats or sunglasses inside a church
- Take off your shoes before entering someone's home
LGBTQ+ Information
Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ acts are legal in the Cook Islands, but there are no specific laws protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon for same-sex couples.
Alcohol & Drug Laws
- The legal drinking age is 18
- Drug laws are strict, and possession of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties
Special Laws
- It is illegal to import or possess pornography
- Nude or topless sunbathing is prohibited
Common Phrases
HelloKia Orana (kee-ah oh-rah-nah)
Thank youMeitaki (may-tah-kee)
Climate
Tropical oceanic climate with warm temperatures year-round (24-29C). Dry season May-October with lower humidity. Wet season November-April brings higher humidity, more rain, and cyclone risk (rare but possible). Trade winds provide natural cooling. Ocean temperature 25-29C year-round.
Best Time to Visit
- Peak Season: June
- October
- Dry season, cooler, perfect weather, highest prices
- Shoulder Season: April
- May, November
- Transitional, good weather, better rates
- Off
- Peak: December
- March
- Wet season, humid, cyclone risk, lowest prices
Getting There
- Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) has direct flights from Auckland (4 hours), Sydney, Los Angeles, and other Pacific destinations
- Air New Zealand and Jetstar are main carriers
- Aitutaki (AIT) is reached by short flight from Rarotonga
- No visa required for most nationalities for stays up to 31 days
Getting Around
- Rarotonga is small enough to circle in 45 minutes by car
- Rental scooters, cars, and bicycles available
- Clockwise bus circles the island hourly
- Aitutaki requires scooter or bicycle
- No ride
- sharing apps
- Taxis available but limited
- Inter
- island flights connect to Aitutaki and outer islands
Health & Vaccinations
- No vaccinations required for Cook Islands
- Hepatitis A/B recommended for most travelers
- Healthcare limited
- travel insurance essential
- Hospital in Rarotonga, clinic in Aitutaki
- Bring prescription medications
- Coral cuts common
- bring antiseptic
- Sun protection essential
Staying Connected
- Cook Islands uses New Zealand networks (limited)
- Coverage mainly in Rarotonga and Aitutaki
- eSIM: Limited options, Airalo Pacific plans may work
- Local SIM from Vodafone Cook Islands
- WiFi at hotels and some cafes
- Internet can be slow and expensive
Local Cuisine
Ika Mata
must_try
Raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream - the Cook Islands' signature ceviche. Fresh, creamy, and absolutely essential to try.
Umu
must_try
Traditional earth oven feast where pork, taro, breadfruit, and vegetables are wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked over hot stones.
Rukau
regional_speciality
Taro leaves cooked in coconut cream - similar to creamed spinach but richer. A staple side dish at any traditional meal.
Fresh Pawpaw
breakfast
Locally grown papaya served with lime for breakfast. Cook Islands pawpaw is exceptionally sweet and abundant throughout the islands.
Coconut Bread
breakfast
Soft, sweet bread made with fresh coconut milk. A beloved breakfast and snack item found at every bakery on the island.
Book in Advance
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:
🔴 Must Book in Advance
Book 2-6 months in advance
Limited flight frequency from Auckland and Los Angeles. Air New Zealand operates small aircraft with few flights per week.
Book 1-3 months in advance
The famous Aitutaki lagoon is reached by small aircraft from Rarotonga. Limited seats and stunning lagoon tours fill quickly.
Book 2-6 months in advance
The Cook Islands have limited luxury properties. Places like Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Little Polynesian, and Sea Change Villas book months ahead.
Fun Facts
- 1. The Cook Islands is one of the least visited countries in the world, with only about 170,000 tourists per year - meaning you might have a beach to yourself.
- 2. Aitutaki Lagoon is consistently rated among the most beautiful in the world, with 21 motus (small islands) surrounding crystal-clear turquoise water.
- 3. Cook Islanders are New Zealand citizens but the Cook Islands has its own government, currency (alongside NZD), stamps, and immigration.
- 4. The 15 islands spread across an ocean area the size of Western Europe, but have a combined land area smaller than Washington DC.
