FOLLOW THE FOOTSTEPS OF CAPTAIN COOK
This small paradise's beating heart will seize your attention. Rarotonga, the Cook Islands' capital, offers a wealth of things to see and do while remaining unspoiled. There are no traffic signals, McDonald's, or structures taller than the tallest coconut tree.
Photo by David Cleverley
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Te-Vara-Nui-Image-by-Ken
If you're looking for culture, don't miss out on the chance to attend a cultural presentation and be amazed by the local cultural groups as they dance with fire to the beat of a wooden drum. Pick up a lovely Tivaevae (brightly coloured hand crafted blanket) or an exquisite black pearl in their bustling Punanga Nui marketplace. Alternatively, come sing with the locals at church on Sunday as they raise their voices in unison.
Things to do
Akirata Dance Troupe Island Night at The Islander Hotel
The Islander Hotel organises a lively Island Night with Akirata Dance Troupe on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The Akirata Dance Troupe, based in Rarotonga, is made up of 47 adult dancers, drummers, musicians, and fire dancers! With Cook Islands songs, drums, dance, costumes, and technical skill under the direction of Mrs. Adriane Clarke-Ellis, and costumes by award-winning designer Mrs. Mama Tuaputa; and featuring former national dancers of the year winners & former Miss Tiare and Miss Cook Islands winners; Akirata (translates to 'new dawn, first light') is sure to deliver the 'wow' factor.
On Wednesdays at Muri Beach Club Hotel and Thursdays at Crown Beach Resort & Spa's Island Nights, Akirata performs cultural acts.
Adventure Snorkel Tour with KiteSUP Watersports Cook Islands
Photo by Taniera
Seeing turtles in their native habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They only take a maximum of 8 people on this snorkel to ensure that it is both environmentally friendly and safe for their turtle companions.
All snorkelling gear is included (mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit). The local guides will lead you through a reef passage to see coral gardens, turtles, eagle rays, and occasionally sharks. They also take pictures of your trip and share them with you on social media.
The Tamanu Aitutaki Feast and show
Every Thursday, experience the Takurua "Special Feast," a local favourite. This is your chance to sample some authentic Aitutaki flavours. Then, from their skilled and energetic cultural ensemble TE AITO, enjoy a performance of Cook Islands music, dance, fire dancing, and more.
Watch as these interesting traditional dancers take you on a mesmerising tour through the South Pacific, dressed in traditional garb. With traditional dancing, stunning costumes, hand clapping, and singing, Tamanu's performances will fascinate you. Watch as the Cook Island warrior men dance with fire to the joyful rhythm of Pacifica drums, while the Cook Island ladies move elegantly while singing in perfect harmony. You can even try it out on your own!
Cultural Village Tour at Te Vara Nui Village
Te Vara Nui Village
During this engaging and immersive Cultural Village Tour experience at Te Vara Nui Village, you will meet local Maori people who will share their stories, wisdom, and traditions with you.
Te Vara Nui Village also has an Over Water Night Show and Buffet, as well as a package that includes both of these activities.
Learn about the Polynesian history, traditional medicine preparation, ancestral fishing and navigation practises, folklore, and beliefs as part of your Cook Islands cultural experience.
Native artisans and craftspeople will demonstrate how they carve, weave, produce local dance costumes, and cook traditional meals, as well as take you to a Marae (a holy enclosure for religious rites) and other sites.
The Cultural Village Tours take two hours to complete.
Night Paddle Lagoon Tours SUP with Ariki Adventures
Ariki Adventures
Have you ever ridden a paddleboard in a lagoon late at night? Cruising out in the safety of the lagoon at night on a board with LED lights underneath it is quite an experience.
It's not a problem if you've never paddled before. They will teach you how to paddle so that you can feel at ease on the water. Their LED lights are wonderful, so the feeling is unreal when the twilight fades and the lights come on. It's a fantastic activity to do with family and friends.