Rarotonga Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific Ocean, Rarotonga is a tropical paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. As the largest and most populous island in the Cook Islands, Rarotonga is a captivating destination that is sure to leave visitors in awe.

One of the first things that will strike you about Rarotonga is its breathtaking beaches. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands, the island boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Whether you choose to relax and soak up the sun or engage in thrilling water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking, Rarotonga's beaches offer something for everyone.

Beyond the beaches, Rarotonga is also home to lush tropical rainforests that are just waiting to be explored. Take a hike through the verdant jungles and discover hidden waterfalls, exotic flora, and fauna. The Te Rua Manga, also known as the Needle, is a striking rock formation that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the island.

For those seeking a taste of the local culture, Rarotonga offers a vibrant and welcoming community. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Cook Islands by attending a dance performance or participating in a traditional cooking class. The island's markets are also a must-visit, where you can find an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs to take home.

No trip to Rarotonga would be complete without experiencing the island's delectable cuisine. Indulge in a feast of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes such as ika mata, a raw fish salad marinated in coconut cream. Whether you choose to dine at a local restaurant or savor a meal on the beach, Rarotonga's culinary scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Alternative names: Area: 25.91 mi²Archipelago: Cook IslandsElevation: 305 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 21°15'11"S, 159°45'22"W

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Rarotonga Top Attractions

Rarotonga Attractions - What to See and Explore

Rarotonga offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Te Rua Manga, Ikurangi, Marae Moana, Muri Night Market. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • Park • Mountain
Te Rua Manga
Te Rua Manga or The Needle is a mountain on Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. It has an elevation of 413 metres above sea level. The spire itself is a breccia structure. There is a walking track to the base of the spire.
Mountain
Ikurangi
Ikurangi is one of the four major peaks of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. It has an elevation of 485 metres above sea level and overlooks the capital Avarua and the village of Matavera. The peak is climbable by a hiking trail.
Nature • Natural attraction • Marine reserve
Marae Moana
Marae Moana is a multiple-use marine protected area created on 13 July 2017, when the Parliament of the Cook Islands passed a bill creating the largest multiple-use marine protected area in the world at the time of its passage.

21°15'26"S • 159°43'55"W
Muri Night Market
Flea market • Festival • Shopping
21°16'17"S • 159°45'29"W
Titikaveka
Beach • Park • Outdoor activities
Neighbourhood
Ngatangiia
Ngatangiia is one of the five districts that make up the island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. It is located in the east of the island, to the south of the districts of Matavera and Avarua, and northeast of the district of Titikaveka.
Neighbourhood
Arorangi
Arorangi is one of the five districts that make up the island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. It is located in the west of the island, to the northwest of the district of Titikaveka, and southwest of the district of Avarua.
Neighbourhood
Matavera
Matavera is the smallest of the five districts that make up the island of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. It is located in the northeast of the island, to the east of the district of Avarua, and north of the district of Ngatangiia.
Nature • Mountain
Te Manga
Te Manga, on Rarotonga, is the highest point of the Cook Islands, a self-governing parliamentary democracy in free association with New Zealand, with an elevation of 652 meters above sea level.

Day trips

Rarotonga – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Rarotonga, it's worth seeing attractions such as: St. Joseph's Cathedral (Avarua), Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Cook Islands Library and Museum (Avarua).

3.6 miNW
Church
St. Joseph's Cathedral, Avarua
St. Joseph's Cathedral is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rarotonga and is located in Avarua in the north of the island of Rarotonga the largest and most populated island of the Cook Islands a self-governing island country in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New...
3.7 miNW
21°12'18"S • 159°46'59"W
Punanga Nui Market, Avarua
Flea market, Shopping, Market
3.3 miN
21°12'28"S • 159°46'23"W
Cook Islands Library and Museum, Avarua
Museum
3.3 miN
Library
National Library of the Cook Islands, Avarua
The National Library of the Cook Islands - Runanga Puka is the national library of the Cook Islands. Planning for the library began in 1961, with a committee backed by the Resident Commissioner Oliver Dare.
3.5 miNW
Universities and schools
Nukutere College, Avarua
Nukutere College is a Roman Catholic secondary school located in Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. It is the country’s only Catholic secondary school and has an important educational role across the archipelago.