Choosing a time to visit
The Cook Islands enjoy a pleasant tropical climate year-round, but there are distinct wet and dry seasons that can influence your travel experience. .
Best Season Overall: The drier season (April to November) is generally considered the most comfortable time to visit, with less humidity and lower risk of tropical storms.
Warmest/Most Humid Months: December to March (Wet Season)
Driest/Cooler Months: April to November (Dry Season), with July and August often being the coolest months within this period.
Interesting Season Fact: The wet season, while more humid and prone to rainfall, can also bring lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, offering a different kind of tropical escape.
Selecting a point of arrival
The main international gateway to the Cook Islands is located on the most populous island, Rarotonga.
Top International Airport and Connectivity:
Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) - Located in Avarua. Rarotonga has direct flight connections from countries like New Zealand, Australia, and some other Pacific islands.
Sample Inter-Island Travel: Flights are the primary way to travel between islands.
Rarotonga to Aitutaki: Flights take approximately 50 minutes. There are frequent flights, often around 57 per week.
Wedding Package Cost Idea:
Basic wedding packages often start from around NZ$999 per couple, with grander packages available – check out our Cook Islands destination wedding specials.
Honeymoons
SETTING YOURSELF A DAILY BUDGET
The cost of a trip to the Cook Islands can vary, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious experiences.
Budget Traveller: NZ$100 – NZ$150 per day (staying in guesthouses/hostels, cooking some meals, free/low-cost activities)
Mid-Range Traveller: NZ$225 – NZ$535 per day (mid-range accommodation, eating at local cafes/restaurants, some paid tours)
Luxury Traveller: NZ$1,400+ per day (high-end resorts, fine dining, a range of paid activities, private transport)
Activity Cost Idea: Popular activities like lagoon cruises or guided island tours can range from approximately NZ$60 to NZ$160+ per person, influencing your daily spend.
Vaccinations
While there are typically no mandatory vaccination requirements for entry to the Cook Islands from most countries, it's always best to be prepared.
Mandatory Vaccinations: Generally, no mandatory vaccinations are required for entry unless you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended Vaccinations: Consult a healthcare professional 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalised advice – they may recommend routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and potentially others like Hepatitis A or Typhoid.
CHANGING UP CURRENCY
THE LOCAL CURRENCY IS THE SAMOAN TALA. THE EXCHANGE RATE IS APPROXIMATELY 1.8 TO THE AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR.
Banknotes frequently used are: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 tālā
Do carry cash on you (don’t worry, Samoa has one of the lowest crime rates!)
ATMs are available both in Upolu and Savai’i.
There is a small surcharge on top of your bank’s conversion rates/fees & charges
Both ANZ and Bank South Pacific have branches at the Faleolo International Airport
Allergy advice
Travelers with food allergies should clearly communicate their needs and be cautious with local dishes like seafood and tropical fruits. Carry essential medication and consider self-catering for added safety.
INTERNET AND WIFI
Wi-Fi is available via Vodafone hotspots, but mobile data with a local SIM is the most reliable way to stay connected in the Cook Islands.
Vodafone provides 1GB data bundles for NZ$10, which can be added to your plan as needed.
Vodafone offers Travel SIM cards with data and calling minutes, available at Rarotonga International Airport and other outlets.
Portable WiFi devices generally cost AUD$60 and 1GB of data costs AUD$4
Some establishments, in Aitutaki, offer internet access for a fee (NZ$5 for 10 minutes, NZ$10 for 30 minutes, NZ$15 for 1 hour).
Traditional internet cafés are limited; most access is through Wi-Fi hotspots or mobile data.
4G+ mobile data is available in Rarotonga and Aitutaki; other inhabited islands have 4G coverage.
Packing for the trip
Stick to t-shirts and shorts for the most part! Cook Islands is a warm country, so unless you’re going to a formal restaurant (or church!), you’re pretty set!
Hiring a nanny or childminder
Cook Islands is a fantastic destination for nanny services, which can be arranged through your resort or on arrival.
Nannies can be hired for extra help any time of day
Great for meal times, sleep times and pool or beach days
Prices range from AUD$ 3-7 per hour
