Travel Cook Islands, South Pacific

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Ready-Made Trips to Cook Islands

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Plan a Cook Island Adventure with Downunder Travel

Learn more about our destination packages and the amazing attractions the Cook Islands have to offer.

The stunning 15 paradisal islands in the heart of the South Pacific – lying halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii – make for an exceptional, heavenly getaway. Far from your typical beach vacation, this is a location with secluded beaches so you never have to worry about rushing over to reserve beach chairs for yourself or your party. Furthermore, the shores are calm and shallow, which make for safe conditions to play in, especially if you are travelling with children.

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Learn More About the Cook Islands

The history of the Cook Islands is rooted in its deep Polynesian Heritage with a mixture of European influences. On the same time zone as Hawaii, which makes it rare to experience much jetlag, your sunny escape will provide you with many great vacation adventures! The white-sandy beaches of the these majestic islands provide a rare, raw beauty coupled with an idyllic climate and much ground to play in, so you’re free to roam or rip around the main island of Rarotonga on a scooter hire.

The Cook Islands are what Hawaii was 50 years ago, except with the modern conveniences and necessities that travellers appreciate. Hawaii has about 8.3 Million visitors per year (an average of 159,615 per week) compared to the yearly number of visitors to the ‘Cooks, which is 121,458! without that typical touristy look-and-feel that no one wants!

Booking with a Destination Specialist will afford you some of the best offers in this true piece of heaven of the South Pacific. We have direct contacts to airlines, resorts, hotels and excursion operators and we can also get you to enjoy some off-beaten path regions such as Aitu – a totally remote, practically uninhabited island – as well as some unique experiences you may only be able to get through us. We have extensive knowledge of the Cook Islands, even through some of our staff who have actually lived in ‘The Cooks!’ Yearly, we have our Christmas in the Cook Islands offers, which gives Downunder Travel passengers an exclusive deal for travel during the holiday season – a particularly prime booking time, and expensive time of year – as well as the New Year. Be sure to look out of our yearly offers to The Cooks during the holiday period as it is sure to offer you and your family something of a unique experience. As we like to say, swap out that winter snow for powdery-white sand beaches that only this little group of islands, totally around 240 square kilometers, can provide.

The Cook Islands boasts that rare beauty that is untouched, unspoiled, pure and beautiful; the tropical region offers that idyllic climate you can find year-round. You’ll always be interacting with such warm welcoming locals be it at the Sunday Avarua Markets, listening to the gorgeous hymns at the Sunday Church service, to the tour leaders and everyday folks on the street – Cook Islands offers that authentic islander experience without that touristy feel. Making for one of the most pristine romantic getaways, this is a perfect place for a honeymoon or anniversary getaway for you and your partner.

Speak with a destination specialist

Cook Islands FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to Cook Islands from Canada?

Travellers from Canada or the United States do not require a visa for tourist visits to the Cook Islands lasting up to 30 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the Cook Islands and that you have a confirmed onward or return ticket.

When is the best time to travel to the Cook Islands?

The ideal time to visit the Cook Islands is from May through October, during the winter season, when the weather is drier and there's minimal rainfall. While the Cook Islands enjoy a consistently warm climate year-round, the summer months from December to April mark the rainy season.

Note that the winter months tend to attract more tourists due to the favourable weather.

Is the Cook Islands a good destination for families?

The Cook Islands are a fabulous family destination, brimming with child-friendly activities! Its calm lagoon waters make it the perfect spot for safe swimming and snorkelling adventures. Kids can also ditch the screens and dive into fun activities like jungle hiking, crab races, water sports, and engaging cultural experiences.

Plus, there's no shortage of accommodation options, from cozy one to three-bedroom self-catering units to charming traditional hotels and resorts, making it the ultimate family getaway!

Discover more in our Rarotonga Family Package.

Is the Cook Islands suitable for couples or honeymooners?

The Cook Islands is an enchanting destination for couples, perfect for unwinding or embarking on island adventures. Imagine snuggling up in a hammock, gently swaying together - it’s pure bliss!

Celebrate an anniversary, a special birthday, or simply your love in this idyllic setting. The Cook Islands offer an unforgettable backdrop for any romantic occasion.

Downunder Travel prepares the best Getaways for couples.

What are the most visited islands in the Cook Islands?

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is the arrival island for international flights to the Cook Islands, but it’s also an island that would be a shame to miss if you were to hop straight onto a plane for the next island. The volcanic island is unique to the Cook Islands in that it has volcanic peaks to climb and a cosmopolitan culture of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Aitutaki

Very different from Rarotonga, Aitutaki is an atoll with one large island (although smaller than Rarotonga) and several small “motu” (islets) encircling a glorious lagoon. Life is even slower and more relaxed here compared to Rarotonga, where finding yourself alone on a motu or sandbank amongst turquoise waters is fairly common.

How does the time zone in the Cook Islands affect travel from Canada?

The Cook Islands are in the same time zone as Hawaii, making them ideal vacation spots for Canadian travellers who want to avoid significant jet lag. This alignment allows Canadians to enjoy their holiday more fully, as they can adjust quickly and relax from the moment they arrive.

Can I plan a custom trip to the Cook Islands with Downunder Travel?

Absolutely! Downunder Travel specializes in creating bespoke travel itineraries tailored to your preferences, from relaxing beach vacations to exploring off-the-beaten-path locations like the remote island of Aitu.

Create Your Dream Vacation

At Downunder Travel you are not restricted to our ready-made packages.

We can customize and build a trip for you!

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Wigmore's Waterfall

with our 13 day Cook Islands Escape

The Perfect Romantic Adventure

View Trip!

A Relaxing Day at the Muri Lagoon

A Prestine Shallow Lagoon

Known for its Turquoise Clear Water Perfect for Snorkelling & Kayaking

The Markets of Rarotonga

Including Punanga Nui Market & the Muri Night Markets

Enjoy the food, art and culture of the Cook Islands

Build a Trip!

A Hike to Te Rua Manga

Also known as the Needle

Take a scenic hike and visit one of Cooks Island's Historical Landmarks

A Dive in a Prestine Ocean

Scuba Diving Lessons are Often Available at our Resorts

The Cook Islands are known for their beautiful waters & tropical marine life

What you need to know

Information and Facts

Made up of 15 unique islands, the Cook islands had untouched beauty and charm. Enjoy the rich culture in the heart of Polynesia, or simply relax on in paradise. Speak to a destination specialist to learn how you can book your next adventure to the Cooks!

Still have questions? Contact Us!