- CapitalAvarua (Rarotonga)
- CurrencyNew Zealand dollar (NZD), plus local coins
- LanguagesEnglish, Cook Islands Māori
- Main hubRarotonga (RAR)
- EntryVisa-free for most visitors up to 31 days
- Drives onLeft
The Cook Islands are self-governing in free association with New Zealand, and feel like the South Pacific of decades past. Rarotonga's 32 km coast road can be circled by bus in under an hour, with Muri Lagoon, the Cross-Island Track and the Saturday Punanga Nui market as highlights.
Many visitors add a few days on Aitutaki, a 50-minute flight north, for one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Pacific. Our Cook Islands guide covers both islands.
Where to stay in Cook Islands
Compare hotels, resorts and guesthouses with free cancellation on many rooms. Via Booking.com.
Landmarks map
Top landmarks
Aitutaki Lagoon
A triangular lagoon of shallow turquoise water dotted with motu, including One Foot Island.
Tours & activities in Cook Islands
Day trips, cruises and guided experiences, many with free cancellation. Via GetYourGuide.
Guides & articles
The Best Honeymoon Destinations in Oceania
Overwater bungalows, private islands and alpine lodges: the best honeymoon spots in Oceania compared, with the best months to go and rough nightly costs.
What to Pack for Oceania: Packing Lists, Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Biosecurity Rules
Lagoons, alpine passes and outback heat in one trip. Here is what to pack for Oceania, which sunscreens to avoid, and how to stay on the right side of strict Australia and NZ biosecurity rules.
Combining Hawaii with Tahiti, Fiji or the Cook Islands
Honolulu is a natural gateway to the South Pacific. Here is how to pair Hawaii with Tahiti, Fiji or the Cook Islands, with direct routes and sample itineraries.
Getting Around Oceania: Island Flights, Ferries, Trains and Driving on the Left
Island flights that run once a week, ferries worth taking, scenic trains and tips for driving on the left: a practical guide to moving around Oceania.
The 12 Best Islands in the South Pacific, Ranked by Travel Style
From Bora Bora's lagoon to Tanna's volcano, these 12 South Pacific islands each do one thing better than anywhere else. Find the one that fits how you travel.
Cook Islands Travel Guide 2026: Rarotonga and Aitutaki
Rarotonga's easy island life and Aitutaki's jaw-dropping lagoon make the Cook Islands one of the simplest South Pacific trips. Here is how to plan both.
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