General Information
Rarotonga is the gateway into the Cook Islands and the most vibrant of the Cook Island Group. This circular lush island is dominated by high mountain peaks that cascade down to an azure lagoon that almost totally encircles the island.
Avarua is the main town and capital and commercial centre of the Cook Islands. It is a very friendly relaxed town with some fine café’s and restaurants and local craft stores and boutiques. Avarua is also the main port for both cruise liners, fishing charters and visiting yachts.
Getting There
The island of Rarotonga is 32 klms in circumference and the main road which hugs the coast is deaf flat! There is also a ring road servicing the many interior villages that is seldom traveled on and a great way to see rural Rarotonga. The best way of seeing the island is to rent a scooter or bicycle from one of the many outlets and explore on your own. There is also the Cook Island Bus which offers a frequent service in both directions on the main road with many stops. Small rental cars and 4wheel drive vehicles and are also available.
Tours
Circle Island Tour
This oriental cultural circle island tour of the island has pick-ups from nearly all the major hotels & resorts. The tour takes in all the major sites such as the National Culture Centre and National Museum, Papeiha Stone, Punanga Nui Market, Para O Tane Palace ruins, plus more. NZ$63.00 per person. No discount for children.
Island Safari
A must do at the beginning of any stay in Rarotonga. Take to the interior of the island in a four wheel drive safari jeep and enjoy breathtaking scenery you won’t see form the coastal road. NZ$88.00 per adult, $44.00 per child under 12 years
Lagoon Cruise
Take a full day excursion on Rarotonga’s Muri Lagoon. There are several operators offering different experiences. Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise is one of the most established and caters well for families. Enjoy a day snorkeling in a marine reserve where schools of butterfly fish will feed from your hand. Then enjoy a fresh fish barbeque on an off-shore island in the lagoon. NZ$78.00 per adult, $30.00 per child under 12 years
Reef-Sub
Rarotonga’s only semi-submersible that operates outside of the reef. NZ$80.00 per adult, NZ$50.00 per child under 12 years.
Aroa Pony Trek
East 2-2.5 hour treks through plantations to Wigmore’s Waterfall, the spectacular views from the Needle and a trek along the beaches. NZ$50.00 per adult, $30.00 per child under 12 years
Accommodation
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