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Rarotonga Accommodation
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Rarotonga Accommodation
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Rarotonga AccommodationWith its high jagged peaks and surrounding turquoise lagoon, it is often named the 'jewel in the Pacific'.
Rarotonga Accommodation
Cook Islands Map
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The Cook Islands is a country of 15 islands spread across two million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean. The islands are situated in the middle of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific, with the Kingdom of Tonga and Samoa to the west, and Tahiti to the East. Rarotonga, with 67 square kilometers of mountains and flat coastal areas, is the largest of the Cook Islands, and is encircled with a magnificent reef. Clear turquoise water, lush tropical growth and the many beautiful native flowers make this a popular destination.
Islands and do ... Avarua, the capital, is a small commercial centre, with cafes, shops (check out the Black Pearls) and tourist attractions such as the National Library/National Cultural Centre, and also the Historical Society Museum. There is also market on the waterfront, which operates most days.
Surfing is growing in popularity, especially near the wreck of the Matai and at Avatiu, Avarua and Matavera. Windsurfing is particularly good at Muri Beach and the lagoon at Nagatangiaa.Sailing is also available at the Raratonga Sailing Club, based at Avatiu Harbour. This is usually home to most visiting yachties, too. Take the island bus (either direction!) and journey round the island. Or hire a car or small motorbike. Takes no time at all and is very enjoyable! Many galleries and craft stores can be found on the coastal road, for example the Women's Handicraft Centre, Akatikitiki Art Gallery, Island Crafts and Perfumes of Rarotonga.
There are a number of treks on Rarotonga, from easy walks to strenuous hikes. One of the more popular is a four hour guided walk across the island that stops at the Needle, a rock formation with fabulous views. Papua Waterfall at Vaimaanga, the largest waterfall on the island, dropping into a large pool. Visitors can also walk through the Takitumu Nature Reserve with its abundant plant and bird life. Whale watching tours are available from July to September.
How to get there
There are a number of international airlines that service the Cook Islands - please check out the air travel information. Air Rarotonga flies regularly to the northern and southern groups of islands.
Rarotonga has an island-fringing road which is only 32 kilometers right around. There is a regular hourly bus service (Monday to Saturday) that travels around the island - in fact one clockwise and one anti-clockwise! There are also car, motor scooter and bike rentals. Driving is on the left hand side of the road. Drivers of all vehicles are required to have a current Cook Islands Drivers Licence available from the Police Station in Avarua on presentation of your own licence. Cost NZ$10.00. Taxis are also available, and some resorts offer airport transfers.
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