If there is anything you are interested in, click on any of the above and you will go directly to the information. If you would like further information, please see our "A-Z Rarotonga Info Guide" for more details.
We highly recommend an Island Night - an evening to remember with a traditional Polynesian style feast followed by dancing, singing and drumming. The Rarotongans are natural performers -entertaining would appear to be in their blood.
A number of the hotels and resorts have a regular Island Night. Some allow you to do "show" only (without food), but it does pay to book to avoid disappointment.
The current Island Night timetable is
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa
As much as the white sandy beaches are a fabulous attraction, the lush and tropical inland area of Rarotonga certainly deserves exploring. There are excellent tracks and trails taking you into the hinterland and giving you an insight into some of the local history, geology and things of natural significance.
There are no poisonous insects, snakes or wild animals in the Cook Islands so exploring is more relaxing!
Rarotonga has one hiking trail, named “The Needle” after its major landmark, a towering rock structure. The trail extends between the southern and northern coasts, approximately cutting the island in half. Here is your opportunity to hike across one of the Cook Islands.
While there are options for all levels, we do recommend that you go with an experienced guide as a number of the tracks are not signposted. Going with an experienced local guide will also provide you with the opportunity to learn more about Rarotonga.
Note: The Cook Island's Tourism has issued a safety warning advising people not to attempt the "Cross Island Trek" unguided.
Pa's Mountain Walk
Pa has built some international acclaim as one of the South Pacific's most renowned guides. He offers two tours, the Cross Island Walk (strenuous) and a Nature Walk, learn about the local medicine plants and the native flora and fauna of the mountains. Pa is also available for private walks by arrangement.
Takitumu Nature Walk
Is a gentle walk getting a first hand look at the operations of the Takitumu Conservation Area.
Highland Paradise
Is a relatively new addition to the historical and cultural tours available on Rarotonga.
Highland Paradise is the site of a historic settlement in the Maungaroa valley on the Western side of Rarotonga. It is set in lush mountain bush approximately 600 metres above sea level and has spectacular panoramic views of the coast and Pacific Ocean. The settlement is surrounded by a rich botanical garden full of Cook Islands native plants including edible plants, medicinal herbs and flowers of all kinds.
Tours are conducted by local guides who are proud to share the history, legends and plant lore of the Cook Islands with visitors.
Guided tours take approximately two hours. Lunch and refreshments are available afterwards.
Safari Tours
See and climb around Rarotonga without the exercise. A three-hour journey round back roads and up mountains. There are now two safari tours on offer, the original Raro Safari Tours and their team of witty and knowledgeable guides. Having been on Rarotonga for almost 5 years I thought it time to do a Raro Safari and surprisingly I actually learnt something...
There is a new addition Tangaroa Tours and they offer a similar product. Both tours include lunch at the end of the tour. Both tours are busy so bookings are essential. They run 7 days a week.