Escape to the tropical Cook Islands on this nine-day ultimate island relaxation getaway!
Beginning on the island of Rarotonga, you'll spend your first few days snorkelling in the crystal clear lagoon, snorkelling at Aroa Beach, known as one of the best snorkelling spots in the world, and even exploring the island on a fun 4WD inland safari tour!
Moving on, you'll fly to Aitutaki for the latter half of your trip where you'll take part in a Punarei cultural village tour that will allow you to experience and enjoy sacred rituals practised by the villager's ancestors.
You'll learn to weave, prepare your lunch in the umu (underground oven), explore the lush tropical gardens and learn of the plants used for traditional medicine. The rest of your time here will be spent snorkelling, cruising, lounging on the beach and exploring the island on this Cook Islands travel package!Escape to the tropical Cook Islands on this nine-day ultimate island relaxation getaway!
Beginning on the island of Rarotonga, you'll spend your first few days snorkelling in the crystal clear lagoon, snorkelling at Aroa Beach, known as one of the best snorkelling spots in the world, and even exploring the island on a fun 4WD inland safari tour!
Moving on, you'll fly to Aitutaki for the latter half of your trip where you'll take part in a Punarei cultural village tour that will allow you to experience and enjoy sacred rituals practised by the villager's ancestors.
You'll learn to weave, prepare your lunch in the umu (underground oven), explore the lush tropical gardens and learn of the plants used for traditional medicine. The rest of your time here will be spent snorkelling, cruising, lounging on the beach and exploring the island on this Cook Islands travel package!
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Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Rarotanga!
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Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport by your driver and taken to your resort in a shared transfer. You'll then have the rest of the day free to spend as you wish to start your Cook Islands travel package. The beach and it's beautiful lagoon are just steps away from your room as well as two swimming pools which are connected by wooden walkways through beautiful tropical gardens.
Accommodation
Sunset Resort★4 star
Transportations
Minivan from Rarotonga International Airport to Sunset Resort
Destinations
Arorangi District
Day 2
4WD Inland Safari Tour
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Today, you'll be picked up from your resort and your experienced tour guide will give you a brief overview of the island. You'll then head inland to discover the lush tropical interior of the island including the green valleys of Avatiu all the way to the centre of the island. Along the way, you will see taro plantations, an important food crop throughout the Pacific. You'll learn about traditional land laws that govern the use of land and how it is passed on from generation to generation.
Accommodation
Sunset Resort★4 star
Activities
4WD Inland Safari Tour
Meals
Breakfast and lunch
Destinations
Arorangi District
Cook Islands
Day 3
Snorkelling at Aroa Beach
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If you'd like to get out fo the resort on your final full day, you can head to another part of the island to go snorkelling on Aroa Beach. Considered one of the best snorkelling spots in the world, Aroa Beach is the gateway to an unbelievable world underwater - grab your snorkelling gear and flippers to find it for yourself. The beach is quiet, giving you space and time to discover the natural beauty for yourself under the dazzling azure water.
Accommodation
Sunset Resort★4 star
Activities
Snorkelling at Aroa BeachOptional Activity
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Arorangi District
Day 4
Day at Muri Lagoon
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The jewel of the Cook Islands, Muri Lagoon is unlike anything you will experience anywhere else in the world and today, you can explore this lagoon. The stretch of water is calm and peaceful, skirted by a white sand beach, it's perfect for those looking to do some snorkelling as the waters are crystal clear, surrounded by coral and abundant with sea life.
Accommodation
Sunset Resort★4 star
Activities
Muri LagoonOptional Activity
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Arorangi District
Cook Islands
Day 5
Koka Lagoon Cruise
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Today, you have the day free to spend as you wish which might be the perfect opportunity to go on a Koka Lagoon cruise! Heading out on your glass-bottom boat for an adventure in the famous Muri lagoon, you'll spend the day snorkelling among the lagoon life, ukulele playing, pareu tying, weaving, enjoying a delicious fish bbq feast and embracing the amazing coconut tree climbing show and coconut husking!
Accommodation
Sunset Resort★4 star
Activities
Koka Lagoon CruiseOptional Activity
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Arorangi District
Kaireva Beach House
Day 6
Fly from Rarotonga to Aitutaki
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This morning, you'll pack up and say goodbye to the island to Rarotonga as you set off to the airport for your flight to Aitutaki, where you'll be spending the latter half of your trip. Upon arrival in Aitutaki, you'll be transferred to your resort in a shared transfer with other travellers. You'll then have the rest of the day free to relax and enjoy the resort's facilities. Perhaps some more snorkelling is in order!
Accommodation
Are Tamanu Beach Village★3 star
Transportations
Minivan from Sunset Resort to Rarotonga International Airport
Plane from Rarotonga International Airport to Aitutaki Airport
Minivan from Aitutaki Airport to Are Tamanu Beach Village
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Arorangi District
Are Tamanu Beach Village
Day 7
Punarei Cultural Village Tour
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Today, you'll head off on a tour to enjoy the myths and legends of the sacred maraes (sacred meeting places). The tour will allow you to experience and enjoy what was practised by their ancestors. You'll learn to weave, prepare your lunch in the umu (underground oven), explore the lush tropical gardens and learn of the plants used for traditional medicine. You'll also have the chance to learn the basics of the art of Cook Islands dancing.
Accommodation
Are Tamanu Beach Village★3 star
Activities
Punarei Cultural Village Tour
Meals
Breakfast and lunch
Destinations
Are Tamanu Beach Village
Cook Islands
Day 8
Activities at Tamanu Beach Resort
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Today, you can enjoy the beautiful island and lagoon of Aitutaki at your leisure. You can hire a scooter, bicycle or car and head off on your own island adventure to explore this tropical paradise. Alternatively, you can take to the water with a snorkelling tour or lagoon cruise. If your stay on the island overlaps with the market day then it is strongly recommended that you visit to experience the local culture and live music and perhaps even buy some souvenirs.
Accommodation
Are Tamanu Beach Village★3 star
Activities
Activities at Tamanu Beach ResortOptional Activity
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Are Tamanu Beach Village
Cook Islands
Day 9
Departure from Aitutaki
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This morning, after breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport in a shared transfer for your departing flight.
Transportations
Minivan from Are Tamanu Beach Village to Aitutaki Airport
Meals
Breakfast
Destinations
Are Tamanu Beach Village
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What’s included?
8 nights accommodation
2 activities
8 breakfasts and 2 lunches
Airport transfer
Ground transportation
What’s not included?
Alcohol beverages
Domestic flights
Entrance fees
Entry visas / airport departure tax
Gratuities
International flights
Laundry
Licensed English speaking guides
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Trekking permits
Starting From
AU$ 4,005/ per traveller sharing
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Benefits of this trip
Cook Islands in 9 days
4-star, 3-star accommodation
24/7 in-destination support from your local designer