10 Things to do in the Cook Islands as a Solo Traveller
Hire a scooter and explore, taking in some fishing, trekking, shopping and great entertainment on Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands.
There are several top things to do in the Cook Islands, all perfect for the solo traveler.
The Cook Islands consist of 15 separate islands, spread across a huge area. Rarotonga is the main island and the only one with international air flights, so your journey starts here.
Take a Bus Ride Around Rarotonga
There is just one road right around the island and two buses. The first leaves Avarua on the hour and the other on the half hour. Here you will meet locals who use the buses extensively, plus tourists exploring the island. One bus goes clockwise, the other anti-clockwise. Hop on and off as you tour the island and if you want to get back on, just stand at the side of the road and flag it down. Ask for a day ticket. Other than taxis, the two buses are the only public transport on the island. The trip takes about 50 minutes.
Swim in Muri Lagoon
Rarotonga is surrounded by a reef, which has the effect of creating several lagoons. The best one on the island is Muri Lagoon, towards the south end.
Safe swimming in the crystal clear waters is a must and taking a snorkel is advised. A short boat trio across the lagoon to one of the three islands can make you feel like Robinson Crusoe. There are restaurants on the beach and close-by, with both hostel style and bungalow rentals available.
Look for the signpost showing how far it is to the closest McDonalds - you won’t find one anywhere in the Cook Islands.
Shop at Punanga Nui Market
The heart of Rarotonga on a Saturday morning, is the market, where you can shop like a local. This a lively event, with island music and dance performances, among dozens of stall selling everything from local crafts to oranges. And don’t expect the oranges to be orange - they are green and taste wonderful. The market is both for tourists, but is also an important event for the islanders, who do their weekly shop for fresh produce. Don’t miss this one.
Walk Marie Nui Gardens & Cafe
Park your hired scooter or car in the car park, and walk into the lush Marie Nui gardens. If you enjoy flora and fauna, then this is a must for your trip. In the centre of the gardens is a small café, so take a break and enjoy the peace of the gardens.
Take a Day Trip to Aitutaki Lagoon
A short flight on Air Rarotonga will take you to the beautiful island of Aitutaki. Once you arrived you won’t want to ever leave!
The lagoon on Aitutaki is rated as one the top ten in the world and when you see it for the first time, you’ll know why.
By the time you return to Rarotonga, you’ll have added a unique airline to your list and enjoyed one of the wonders of the Pacific.
See Te Varna Nui Village
A cultural experience showcasing traditional Cook Islands Maori life. There are tours of the village and in the evening, a musical extravaganza showing local legends. The show traces the history of their ancestors, with food and drink options. A great place of vibrant entertainment, enjoyed by solo travellers and families alike.
Go Marlin & Tuna Fishing
Fishing is important to an island nation, and the Cook Islands are no exception. The main place to join a fishing trip is Avarua harbour, just at the edge of town. Another fishing boat goes from Avana Passage about a third of the way clockwise around the island.
You’ll be shown how to manage the rods if you have never fished before. Depending on the operator, any small fish caught may be shared with you. Larger fish are the property of the boat, so may be available to buy. If you are fortunate enough to catch a Marlin, make sure you have your picture taken, although you won’t be able to keep it. Any Marlin are sold into the local restaurant trade, so you may well be able to dine out that evening, eating the very same Marlin.
This is an ideal activity for the solo traveller and a great opportunity to meet others joining you on the boat.
Take the Cross Island Trek
Taking between three and five hours, the 6km cross island trek requires a certain level of physical fitness. It is not advised to trek alone and always advise someone you are taking the walk. Advice is available and there are guided treks as well as plan you own.
There are several other less strenuous trails and walks in the island.
Hire a Scooter
By far the best way to see Rarotonga. There are several places to rent a scooter. The fun part, is the need for a driving licence. If you have motorbikes on your licence, you are half way there. However, your licence or any form of international licence, is not valid in The Cook Islands. You will need to visit the police station in Avarua with your licence, to apply for a local driving licence.
The hire company can issue you with a temporary licence, which allows you to ride to the police station. You will have your picture taken and your licence will be issued. If you don’t have motorbikes on your licence, you’ll need to take a test! This consists of turning left out of the police station yard, up to the roundabout, then back down the road, using a second roundabout, and back to the police station yard. If you don’t fall off or hit anything, your licence will be issued! It makes a great souvenir too.
Once you are legal, a trip around the island stopping wherever you fancy. There are no packing charges on Rarotonga. You can carry a passenger on the pillion too and it seems crash helmets are optional. Watch for the speed limits, as they are enforced around the island. And anyway, why should you be in a hurry?
There is also ‘Back Road’ which goes part way around the island and joins up with ‘Main Road’ in several places. Just explore and enjoy.
Visit a Church
Churchgoers are made very welcome at the majority of local churches. Services are generally in the local Cook Island Māori language, sometimes with English added.
After the service, don’t rush off, as the locals will usually want to meet and welcome you, with a soft drink, tea or coffee, and a light refreshment. Visiting a church in the Cook Islands is great way to meet the locals and other visitors.