Cook Islands
The tranquil Cook Islands, 15 sandy freckles formed by volcanic activity, offer visitors a dream ‘South Seas’ holiday experience on the pristine beaches lapped by sparkling aquamarine waters, snorkelling the reef and learning about Polynesian culture.
The 15 Cook Islands, formed by volcanic activity, are scattered across the south Pacific Ocean. These unspoilt Polynesian tropical gems have the combined population of around 20,000, comprised of unique and friendly people.
Circular Rarotonga is almost completely enclosed by a reef, harbouring a lagoon of clear turquoise water and white sandy beaches. The small island is dominated by a high mountain peak from where lush rain forests cascade down to the palm-fringed shore.
The commercial centre of the islands is the friendly, bustling town of Avarua on Rarotonga, which has banks, shops, and tourist facilities as well as a busy port and yacht basin. The outer islands are becoming increasingly popular for excursions, remaining largely unspoiled by tourism.
The Cook Islanders have their own language and government, and enjoy a vigorous and diverse culture with significant differences between each island. Even if you go no further than Rarotonga, though, you will be ensured of a dream ‘South Seas’ holiday experience on the pristine beaches, snorkelling the reef, or exploring the island by bus, motor scooter, bicycle, or jeep.
The 15 Cook Islands, formed by volcanic activity, are scattered across the south Pacific Ocean.