Fancy yourself a little bit of an adrenaline junkie? Like to live a bit on the wilder side of life? Rarotonga may not have base jumping or shark cage diving, but it has some activities that will get your heart pumping while enjoying nature in the beautiful surrounds of the Cook Islands. A short direct flight from Sydney, and you will be in the tropical paradise of the Cook Islands to live out your adventurous dreams!

A Cook Islands holiday is the ultimate way to satiate your thirst for adventure, whether you're an experienced thrill-seeker or just looking for a change from your usual holiday itinerary. Rarotonga, the biggest jewel in the Cook Islands' crown, offers more than just breathtaking vistas and tranquil beaches; it’s an untamed paradise brimming with exciting exploits that'll take you from the heights of lush mountains to the depths of clear, vibrant coral reefs.

Cook Island travel is more than a getaway; it's a journey filled with excitement and unparalleled beauty. Imagine starting your day with an exhilarating cross-island hike, tracing ancient warrior paths through verdant rainforests. As the day heats up, dive into the crystal-clear waters for a heart-pounding encounter with exotic marine life. Cap it all off with a thrilling night paddle under the stars, surrounded by the luminescent glow of phosphorescent plankton.

At Spacifica Travel, we know that not all travellers are created equal - some crave excitement and adventure alongside their dose of tropical relaxation. Our Cook Islands holiday packages cater to all types of travellers, and the adrenaline-seekers among us will find plenty to satisfy their adventurous spirit.

From exhilarating water sports to daring jungle explorations, Cook Islands holidays are filled with heart-pounding activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories. And rest assured, these thrilling exploits are all balanced with the laid-back island vibes that the Cook Islands are famous for. So buckle up for the ride as we dive into the thrilling world of Rarotongan adventures!

Cross Island Trek & Climbing the Needle

For many years, locals have relished in the thrill of crossing Pa’s Cross Island Track from North to South of Rarotonga. This track is not a simple bushwalk and definitely not for the faint hearted. Complete with guide ropes, rock and vine scrambling, you will often find yourself a little lost in the dense bushland of Rarotonga during this 3-4 hour track. There is an option to test your strength further by climbing the sheer rockface of the Needle, guided only by metal chains bolted to the rock, and a drop-off if you lose grip.

If you dare, you will be rewarded with 360-degree views of Rarotonga - can you imagine being at the top of a mountain and seeing ocean from every direction? Magic! When you make it back down the mountain, be rewarded with a refreshing dip in Wigmore’s waterfall!

Raro Mud Buggies

Again, not for the faint hearted, you will be taken for a two hour journey at high speed (with no brakes!!) through mud, over hills, through valleys and in and out of dense Rarotongan rainforest in a quad bike without doors!

If you like high speed and getting dirty (VERY dirty) this thrill seeker’s adventure may be for you! Just make sure to wear something you don’t mind being brown, and no loose items (goodbye favourite sunnies!!). And if you are a control freak, you may prefer to get your own buggy rather than let your significant other be the one to drive you through puddles.

A great time, but not for anyone who likes to take it slow or remain clean when having fun.

And when all is done, finish with a refreshing swim at Wigmore’s waterfall to wash all the mud off!

Diving Cook Islands

What else could you ask for? Warm year round water temps with visibility up to 60m, and a steep oceanic reef drop off just off shore with some of the world’s most impressive diving locations for seeing tropical fish & sea life like nowhere else. This truly is an adventure diver’s underwater playground.

You will be impressed with over 30 serene locations complete with caves for exploring, canyon dives with rays, sharks, turtles, night diving, and shipwreck dives all within a 10 minute boat ride off shore.

Not certified? No worries! There are many options on Rarotonga to begin your dive journey or as an advanced diver to complete your certification, and what better place than the remote waters of the Cook Islands to dip your toes into this exciting and rewarding sport!

I’m sold! There is lots of stuff to do in Rarotonga for me!

Great, so you are a thrill seeker looking for your next destination to get your blood pumping. Get in touch with the team Spacifica Travel today, and we can help you pick the most out-there adventures in Rarotonga.

If you are interested in reading more about the Cook Islands, check out our other blogs here.

Or read up on some other things to do while in Rarotonga here

Photos Courtesy of Cook Islands Tourism, Ken @ksole_ & cookislandspocketguide.com