CULTURAL VILLAGE
A trip to the cultural village is a must if you want to learn more about the Cook Islands and its people. The village is on a back road in a wonderful garden setting and well worth the NZ$64 (approx. UK£24, US$47, CAN$52, 35 Euros) entrance fee, which includes transport from your accommodation. The islanders are passionate about sharing with you information on everything from traditional ways of fishing to the medicinal uses of fruits and plants. Your visit ends with music, dancing and lunch served on "plates" woven from bamboo leaves. Cultural Village website
The cyclones in February and March, 2005 sadly devastated the fringing reef off Muri beach, but snorkellers can still have a great time just a few minutes up the coast from there opposite Fruits of Rarotonga. For the best experience, go down on to the beach, turn right and walk about 300 metres, then swim towards the edge of the reef...it's perfectly safe and the fish are very friendly!
Wigmore's Waterfall isn't the easiest of places to find as it isn't signposted...head out past Muri Beach, then turn right just after the Vaima restaurant and keep driving (and I warn you, it's not much of a road). The falls are at their best after really heavy rain, but beware of the mosquitos!
The cultural market every Saturday from 6 am till about 1 pm keeps getting bigger and better. Local artists are now a regular feature. And you'll often see local music and dance groups...the one above, right was from Mitiaro.
The market's near the port. Hop on Cooks Island Bus and they'lll drop you off outside. More pictures of the market
The market's near the port. Hop on Cooks Island Bus and they'lll drop you off outside. More pictures of the market
Captured (or is it cat-tured!) at the cultural market one sunny lunchtime. He says he's looking after the stall.
SNORKELLING
CULTURAL MARKET (Punanga Nui)
WIGMORE'S FALLS
And if all the sightseeing get's a bit much...
take a cat nap!
take a cat nap!
TREKKING WITH PA
"Must See" and "Must Do"
POINTERS TO PARADISE:
RARO VIDEO AITUTAKI SITE MAP HOME SURPRISE ME!
OR FIND YOUR OWN PIECE OF PARADISE USING THE MENU ON THE LEFT
RARO VIDEO AITUTAKI SITE MAP HOME SURPRISE ME!
OR FIND YOUR OWN PIECE OF PARADISE USING THE MENU ON THE LEFT
If you want an insight into the interior of Rarotonga, 'Pa's cross island trek' is a must. Pa's white haired dreadlocks may seem a bit incongrous, but this Polynesian has an encylopaedic knowledge of the island, its plants and their medicinal uses. There's also a more leisurely nature trail for the less energetic. The Tourist Office can book the trips for you, including pick ups from your accommodation.