The Perfect 7 Night Cook Islands Itinerary

Published 13th Aug 2019

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our perfectly crafted 7-night itinerary for the Cook Islands, a destination that promises an array of unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this guide is designed to help you make the most of your Cook Islands holiday. Our itinerary combines the beauty and tranquillity of these Pacific gems with the excitement of exploring new cultures and landscapes.

Discover the best of Cook Islands travel with our itinerary, which showcases a blend of relaxation and adventure. From the serene beaches of Aitutaki to the vibrant local markets of Rarotonga, we guide you through the must-see spots and hidden treasures of the islands. Our Cook Islands holiday packages offer a seamless and stress-free travel experience, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your journey.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, our Aitutaki resort deals are the perfect addition to your Cook Islands holiday. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this paradise, where pristine beaches meet luxury accommodation. Experience the warm hospitality, indulge in local cuisine, and partake in exciting activities that make Cook Islands holidays truly special.

Seven Days in the Cook Islands

Day 1: Friday

From the moment you step off the plane, you will feel more relaxed! As you enter the Airport you are welcomed by the warm greeting “Kia Orana” from locals and the tropical sound of Jake Numanga’s ukelele. Welcome to the Cook Islands!

Tip 1: If you are arriving direct from Sydney on the Air New Zealand flight, make sure you pre-book an early check-in at your hotel, the flight arrives at 6.25am and it is a long day if you have to wait until 2pm to check into your hotel.

Day 2: Saturday

Head into Avarua (aka Town) and visit Punanga Nui Cultural Market this morning, there are lots of delicious dining options to choose from, the markets are open 8am – 12pm so aim to visit first thing in the morning for breakfast or have an early lunch!
During the day, grab your snorkelling gear and head out to ‘Fruits of Rarotonga’, Titikaveka or the lagoon in front of Aroa beach for the best underwater viewing experience.

Later in the day, why not enjoy one of Rarotonga’s spectacular sunsets, with an early dinner reservation at Manuia Beach Resort’s OTB Restaurant for a barefoot luxury dining experience.

Day 3: Sunday

Enjoy a relaxing morning, and breakfast at the resort, if you have not experienced a South Pacific church service, today is the day! Be at your nearest church for a 10am start, this is a great way to meet the locals and enjoy an insight into their way of life.
Take the rest of the day to relax, unwind and maybe catch another sunset in the evening.

Day 4: Monday

After a chilled day, it’s time to take it up a notch, one of the most popular walks on the island is the ‘cross-island trek’ which goes from one side of the island to the other. Climb through the lush jungle and be rewarded with a spectacular view from the highest point Te Rua Manga (The Needle), you can almost see the entire island from here! End your 3-4 hour walk with a refreshing swim at Wigmore’s waterfall. Later visit Beluga Café for lunch, we guarantee once you have tried their delicious food, you will be counting down until you can go back!

Day 5: Tuesday

Visit the breathtaking island of Aitutaki, only a short 50-minute flight from Rarotonga. Your trip starts with a tour of the island, the real highlight is a cruise in the infamous azure Aitutaki lagoon. You will travel on a traditionally styled catamaran Titi-ai-Tonga, on-board the Vaka hosts will give you a lesson in the areas history and culture. Throughout the cruise, you stop for snorkelling, enjoy a BBQ lunch, swim with giant trevally and visit One Foot Island where you can have your passport stamped with the ultimate foot-shaped stamp! The tour ends with a short flight back to Rarotonga in time for a much-deserved drink before you head to dinner.

Day 6: Wednesday

Your day starts at 10am when you jump on a Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruise. Tour the inner lagoon of Rarotonga in a glass-bottom boat, stop at the marine reserve for some coral viewing and snorkelling, followed by a BBQ fish lunch on Koromiri Island on Muri Lagoon. Make sure you try some of the local dishes at lunch, and then after you eat your tour guides will entertain you with coconut husking, tree climbing and a pareu (sarong) tying demonstration.

Tonight head to Muri Night Market for some kai (food), there are a selection of dining options set up and it’s the perfect way to try lots of different dishes in one place! The market opens from 5-8pm times a week and there is entertainment while you dine.

Day 7: Thursday

Pack some snacks, grab a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and visit one of the Motu (small islets) in Muri Lagoon, take a swim, snorkel or just work on your tan with the illusion of being on your own private island! After you have worked up an appetite, we recommend a visit to Charlie’s Café for lunch. Try the fish sandwiches, they are HUGE and super fresh. If the weather is nice, hire a bike and go for a cycle around the island. The road around Rarotonga is relatively flat and it’s a great way to see the island. Stop in at Vaiana’s for a cold beer before you head back to the hotel.

Tonight is your last night, so it’s a good idea to go out with a bang! Try at Antipodes, a fairly new restaurant on the island opening in 2018, the team have really perfected both service and amazing food! Make sure you book, with food this good, they can get busy! If you are keen to go out on the town, Rehab is the most popular place for a dance.

Day 8: Friday

Today it’s time to head home, if you have an afternoon flight why not check-in and walk across the road to the Hula Bar at the Islander Hotel. Have a drink or something to eat while you wait for boarding time, it’s the perfect way to end an awesome holiday in the Cook Islands.