Travel guide · Cook Islands
Rarotonga: what to see and when to go
Rarotonga is the main island of the Cook Islands, in the South Pacific: a ring of lagoon and white beaches around green volcanic peaks, just 32 km round. It has the warmth of Polynesia without the crowds or the prices of Bora Bora, and Aitutaki, a short flight away, has one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world.
What to see and do in Rarotonga
Muri Lagoon
Shallow turquoise water dotted with small islets, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cross-island walk
A trail over the jungle-covered interior past the rock spire of Te Rua Manga, the Needle.
Aitutaki
A day trip or a few nights on its lagoon, with One Foot Island and its sandbars.
Punanga Nui Market
The Saturday morning market in Avarua, with food, crafts and music.
Sunday church service
Cook Islands Māori hymns sung in harmony, with visitors welcome.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Apr.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 21 hr, 15 min | ≈ €800 · See flights |
| New York | 15 hr | ≈ €650 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 10 hr, 15 min | ≈ €540 · See flights |
| Dubai | 21 hr, 45 min | ≈ €800 · See flights |
| Singapore | 14 hr, 15 min | ≈ €630 · See flights |
| Sydney | 7 hr | ≈ €410 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €1,120 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Cook Islands
- Currency
- New Zealand Dollar
- Good for
- sea · calm · nature
- How long to stay
- 5–9 days
- Where to stay
- Muri for the lagoon and restaurants; the quieter south and west coasts for sunsets and space.Find a place to stay in Rarotonga
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Rarotonga, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €800 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Rarotonga (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
Links open a sample search (Fri, Apr 2 – Wed, Apr 7, 2 people): change it on each site. If you book through these links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep improving diceando. Legal notice
Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Rarotonga and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Apr. Average highs range from 24° in July to 27° in January.
How many days do you need in Rarotonga?
5 to 9 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Rarotonga cost?
Accommodation runs at around €110 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €1,120 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 21 hr, 15 min.
Where should you stay in Rarotonga?
Muri for the lagoon and restaurants; the quieter south and west coasts for sunsets and space.
