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How to Plan Your Itinerary for the Cook Islands as a First Time Traveller

Published 1st May 2023

If you are a first time traveller to the Cook Islands, then there are a few things you need to know before you venture off to these gorgeous islands in the South Pacific. The Cook Islands are famous for their stunning lagoons, relaxing atmosphere, and friendly locals, and thousands of tourists flock there each year.

If you are thinking about organising your first Cook Island holiday, then Spacifica Travel have the best itinerary for you. Our travel experts have deep knowledge on these islands and are here to lend a helping hand on planning a Cook Islands trip that will live long in your memory. Here is how you should plan your itinerary for the Cook Islands as a first time traveller.

Stay in Rarotonga

Rarotonga is the largest and most populated of the Cook Islands, and is the only one with an international airport. Because of this, no matter where you end up, your Cook Islands holiday will have to start in Rarotonga and we believe it is the ideal place for you to base your vacation.

Every beach on Rarotonga is free for you to walk on whenever you want, meaning you can begin your oceanside relaxation or sea snorkelling adventures soon after you arrive. The island also has some of the best markets in the country, brimming with neat trinkets for you to pick up as a memory of your time there. If you and your travelling party enjoy hikes, then Rarotonga’s mountainous interior has some of the best walks in all of the South Pacific.

Visit Aitutaki

While Rarotonga is the largest island in the Cook Islands, many people travel to this part of the world to explore Aitutaki. This island surrounds a large lagoon and is dotted with luxury resorts on golden sands. People visit this island for snorkelling, swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and to soak in the heavenly views.

However, while Aitutaki is jaw-dropping in its beauty and has a number of memorable experiences, we recommend first-time travellers only visit this island for a day trip instead of staying there. This is because the resorts on Aitutaki are generally more expensive than those on Rarotonga, and it is easier to explore more of the Cook Islands when you are staying on its main island. On your first trip, definitely pay Aitutaki a visit, but maybe hold off on staying there until your second time around.

What are Some Precautions to Staying in the Cook Islands

If you are planning to stay in the Cook Islands for the first time, here are some precautions you should consider:

  • Environmental hazards: The Cook Islands are vulnerable to natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, and earthquakes. Make sure you are aware of the risks and have a plan in place in case of an emergency.
  • Sun protection: The Cook Islands have a warm and sunny climate, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day.
  • Water safety: The ocean can be dangerous, so it's important to be aware of the risks and take precautions. Only swim in areas that are designated as safe for swimming, and never swim alone.

If you plan well ahead of time and take these precautions into account, then your Cook Islands travel should go off without a hitch.

Plan Your Cook Islands Holiday with Spacifica Travel

Travelling to the Cook Islands for the first time is an exciting experience. With the help of Spacifica Travel, you can plan a vacation that showcases the absolute best parts of these magnificent islands. Contact us today to begin planning your first Cook Islands trip!

Photos courtesy of David Kirkland Photography & Cook Islands Tourism

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