Known locally as 'Raro', this spectacularly scenic island is the largest and by far the most popular of the Cook Islands. The interior is dominated by magnificent, volcanic peaks cloaked in lush tropical forests. These slopes give way to agricultural terraces, flats and swamps which stretch out towards gorgeous palm-studded, golden-sand beaches fringing most of the island. The 32 km circumference of Rarotonga is surrounded by a warm, shallow aquamarine blue lagoon surrounded by a glorious orange halo of coral reef teeming with a kaleidoscope of colourful tropical fish. There is a wide range of tourist activities available including, among others: snorkelling, scuba diving, cycling, kite surfing, hiking, boat tours, and scenic flights. With all of this and more on offer, Rarotonga is an ideal place to soak up some sun, the relaxing island atmosphere and thousands of years of Polynesian history and culture.
The exquisite tropical haven of Aitutaki is an island forming part of the Southern Cook Islands. A 45-minute flight from the capital island of Rarotonga, Aitutaki provides a convenient, remote getaway for travellers seeking some peace and tranquility away from the stresses of the modern world. This little pocket of paradise in the South Pacific boasts some of the area’s most magnificent powder-white beaches, tropical rainforests and authentic Polynesian culture. The island is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon which is blessed with wonderful shallow, warm waters ideal for snorkeling, kayaking and swimming. The lagoon is dotted with a number of little deserted islets and is brimming with an abundance of colourful coral and tropical fish. Tiny Aitutaki is home to only 2,100 or so inhabitants, most of whom live in the capital village of Arutanga. The infrastructure on the island is basic, including all the necessary conveniences without crossing the line into crass commercialism.
Identifiable by its towering palm trees, vivid turquoise waters, and yacht-filled bay, Papeete is the capital city of French Polynesia. With its’ name translating to ‘water basket’, Papeete, was traditionally a meeting spot for Tahitians to fill their calabashes with fresh water. Today this tropical city seamlessly merges the tranquillity of the seaside with the hustle and bustle of a port city, boasting fine-dining restaurants, lively markets and charming boutiques. Nature lovers can enjoy leisurely strolls along the lushly landscaped trails and ornamental fish ponds of the Pa’Ofa’i Gardens or admire the glistening sea from the Place Vai’ete Waterfront Park. Notable attractions include the lovely pearl displays at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, the 19th-century architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the delicious fresh produce on offer at the Papeete Market.
Dubbed ‘the world’s most beautiful island you’ve never heard of’ by Huffington Post, Mo'orea forms part of the Society Islands archipelago in French Polynesia. It is indeed arrestingly scenic - an interior of jagged volcanic peaks blends into sandy beaches surrounded by calm, crystal clear waters protected by a coral reef. In this tranquil lagoon you can dive with manta rays, sharks and vividly coloured fish, go paddleboarding or fishing, or enjoy a scenic sunset cruise. Alternatively, go hiking along rainforest trails leading up the slopes of Mo’orea’s interior mountains, or head to the Belvedere Lookout point to enjoy breathtaking views over the island and Tahiti beyond.
Holiday destinations don’t get much more idyllic than Bora Bora. Known as the ‘Jewel of the South Seas’, it has been consistently voted among the best islands of the world. Its mountainous interior is swathed by verdant jungle and encircled by a vividly turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef. Bora Bora’s setting lends itself to a host of aquacentric activities, with snorkelling and scuba diving at the top of the list due to the rich marine life supported by the surrounding barrier reef. Other popular leisure options include jet-skiing, boat cruises, kitesurfing and - for more adventurous travellers - parasailing and sky-diving. The island’s main settlement, Vaitape, is dotted with boutiques and restaurants, where you can indulge in retail therapy or sublime cuisine respectively.
