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Cook Islands travel FAQs
Plan your Rarotonga and Aitutaki holiday with practical answers on transport, island activities and travel essentials. Follow the links for detailed guides, local contacts and current official advice.
Which island should I choose: Rarotonga or Aitutaki?
Use Rarotonga as a starting point for island services, activities and getting around. Explore Aitutaki if lagoon time is central to your trip. Compare accommodation, transport and the activities you want before splitting your stay.
Do I need a rental car in Rarotonga?
Not for every day. Your accommodation location, passengers and plans determine whether walking, the bus, taxis or a short car hire will suit. Start with our car-versus-bus-and-scooter guide, then compare Rarotonga car-rental companies.
How do I catch the bus or arrange a taxi?
Rarotonga has clockwise and anti-clockwise buses along the main coastal road. Check the operator’s current timetable and the last service back. For a taxi or airport transfer, confirm the fare, pickup point and flight time in advance. See our transport guide and taxi guide.
Can I ride a scooter with my car licence?
A car licence does not automatically cover a scooter. An overseas licence only covers the vehicle classes you are entitled to drive at home. Confirm current visitor-licence requirements with Cook Islands Police and your rental provider. Read our scooter-licence guide and the official visitor guidance.
How do I hire a car in Aitutaki?
Contact an operator before arriving and confirm the vehicle, collection point, flight times, insurance and full cost. Check whether your accommodation already includes airport transfers. Our Aitutaki car-hire comparison provides six contacts and links to business profiles.
When is the best time to visit the Cook Islands?
Choose around your preferred weather and activities. Cook Islands Tourism describes June–August as cooler and December–March as warmer, more humid and wetter. Rain can affect plans at any time. See the official seasonal overview and check forecasts for your dates.
What can I do in Rarotonga when it rains?
Museums and galleries are useful options, including Te Ara in Muri, the National Museum and Library and Museum Society in Avarua, and the Marine and Wildlife Eco Centre in Arorangi. Check opening hours and travel conditions. Our rainy-day guide has venue links and advice about lagoon conditions.
How do I compare turtle tours?
Compare guide support, swimming requirements, group size, equipment and how wildlife is protected. Tell the operator about your confidence in the water and follow local safety advice. Use our Rarotonga turtle-tour comparison for contacts and booking questions.
What currency is used in the Cook Islands?
The New Zealand dollar is used, alongside local currency. Check payment methods, card charges and cash needs with your accommodation and operators. See Cook Islands Tourism’s currency information.
Where should I check entry requirements?
Check current passport, entry-permit and onward-travel requirements with Cook Islands Foreign Affairs and Immigration and Cook Islands Tourism before booking. Requirements depend on your circumstances; a general travel guide cannot confirm individual eligibility.
What should I plan when travelling with children?
Confirm child seats, sleeping equipment and transport before arrival. Ask providers about availability and suitable sizes rather than relying on a general listing. Read our baby-equipment hire guide and car-seat and pram flight guide, then check the current airline rules.
Where can I find businesses or report a correction?
Search the local business directory by island and category. Contact providers for current service and availability. If a detail on this website has changed, send us the page link and a current source.