Fifteen islands in the South Pacific Ocean make up the Cook Islands -- a self-governing country closely tied to New Zealand. The Polynesian lifestyle on these islands -- a calm and carefree way of living -- keep travelers booking flights to Cook Islands every year.
The country thrives on tourism. Travelers booking Cook Island flights and accommodations keep the country afloat -- tourism is the leading economic industry, followed by offshore banking, pearls, marine and fruit exports. The country welcomes on average 90,000 visitors a year to the capital island of Rarotonga. It's here that tourists experience a wave of calm and friendliness before heading off on snorkeling adventures, hiking the mountains or the trolling the white sand beaches.
The weather in the Cook Islands is pleasant year-round, but it's likely to rain often. However, this shouldn't deter travelers from booking flights to Cook Island. The weather is warm and sunny and the rain, although imminent, is not terribly harsh.
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The climate in the Cook Islands is equable. The rainy season is between November and March, but the rain usually falls in the form of late afternoon storms which cool the air temperature, which averages around 82F this time of year. The cooler, dry season, when temperatures range from 70F to 80F, runs from April to October. Severe weather is seldom experienced.
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There isn't a bad time to visit the Cook Islands. Travelers booking flights to the Cook Islands should be conscious of the country's many festivals, which are a huge tourist draw and can increase Cook Island flight prices and hotel rates. Flights to Cook Islands during the holiday season (Christmas through New Year's) will be slightly harder to come by as many of the locals return home for visits with their families.
Peak season:
April through November is the peak season, when temperatures are cooler and there is less rainfall.
Off season:
Less popular is December through March, however, this is really far from an “off season” as the rainfall is usually only in the afternoon.
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The quickest way to get between the 15 islands is flying. Air Raratonga has Cook Island flights between eight of them. If you're planning on visiting more than one island, buy a pass for discounted fares.
Raratonga is only 19 miles around so there is no real need to hire a car. There is a bus services that loops the island. If you want to travel under your own steam, hiring a scooter is cheaper than a car.
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- Raratonga is the largest island and the arrival point for most tourists. It’s possible to take part in a cross-island trek, hiking through the rainforest in the center. The trek takes between three and four hours and offers stunning views from the summit.
- The main city on Raratonga is Avarua, capital of the islands. Don’t miss the Saturday market, which starts at 8am. Everything is on sale here, from food to jewelry.
- North of Raratonga, Aitutaki is the second most visited island. The beaches here are stunning, and more secluded than those on Raratonga. The much-photographed, One Foot Island has the appearance of the perfect beach: arching palm trees stretch out over white sand towards the turquoise sea. Snorkeling from Aitutaki is excellent.
- A local handicraft in the Cook Islands is Tivaivai, a sewn bed cover, the value of which is said to be determined by how much love and patience was put into its creation.
- If possible, visit a Sunday Mass while you’re on the islands. This is quite an experience and the singing is amazing. Dress for the occasion – certainly no beach wear or overly casual clothes. Islanders will dress up in their Sunday best for church.
- To visit some of the best beaches, take a lagoon cruise. You’ll visit areas that are only accessible by water, with no other vacationers – except those from your own boat.
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Rarotonga (RAR) is 2 miles west of Avarua. To/from the airport: Hotel coaches meet each flight (travel time – 10 minutes). Taxis and buses are also available. Facilities: Open according to flight arrivals and departures and include 24-hour luggage storage facilities, duty free shops, bank/bureau de change, bars, shops and car rental.
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A passport valid for length of stay, proof of onward passage, adequate financial means to support the stay and proof of confirmed accommodation, are required on entry into the Cook Islands.
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U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for the period of intended stay. If the visit is solely for tourist purposes, a visa is not required for a stay of maximum 31 days. If the visit is for business purposes, a visa is required. This can be issued on arrival for a stay of up to 21 days.
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