Classic Cook Islands: Paradise Beaches & Polynesian Culture

Explore the history and culture of scenic Rarotonga on this shared, guided tour. This volcanic island is the most populous of the Cook Islands and is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon. The culture of the islands is a mix of Polynesian and European influences, reflecting the varied communities who have inhabited them over centuries. Travel in a modern air conditioned coach as you follow roads and paths used by ancient Cook Islanders going back to 1100 AD. Visit a sacred marae, an ancient gathering place for royal ceremonies, at least one of which dates back to the 13th century. Discover historical sites formerly inhabited by Islanders and learn the locations of the best snorkelling spots on Rarotonga. Enjoy a world without traffic lights and no buildings taller than a coconut tree, known locally as the Tree of Life. Watch a coconut husking demonstration and enjoy a refreshing drink of coconut water. (Duration: Half Day; Shared Activity & Transfers; Group size: Min 15 & Max 30)

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the renowned erstwhile maritime community of the legendary Cook Islands on this informative tour of the local village of Te Vara Nui. Learn about the celebrated navigational techniques of the island’s venerated ancestors, as well as their rich traditions of local medicine, folk arts, oral history, myths and legends. Try your hand at emulating the ancient fishing techniques of Polynesia. Visit the village workshops to see how local artisans painstakingly weave, carve and create the ceremonial dance costumes of the islands. Interact with local villagers to discover the distinctive Maori culture of the community. Listen to their powerful stories and legends, and watch them prepare a traditional meal using fresh local produce. Visit the local Marae or the sacred enclosure for the village community’s religious ceremonies and traditional rituals. Get an intimate view of the island way of life, before returning to your hotel. (Evening Tour; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Enjoy ‘The Legend of Tongaiti’ performed by some of Rarotonga’s finest dancers and musicians on floating as well as fixed stages at a rock waterfall garden, lit by flaming torchlight. This is the biggest Over-Water Island Night Show on Rarotonga and provides an authentic and electric cultural experience. The performance is accompanied by a delicious Island/Western fusion buffet, prepared by local and international chefs. The legend tells the story of a warrior named Tongaiti who set out in search of beautiful ‘floating islands’ to call home, along with his wife Ari and his family. When they found these islands, they discovered the inhabitants were hostile to newcomers. Tired and hungry, Tongaiti asked his beautiful daughter to dance for the island’s Chief. Captivated by her beauty, the Chief fell in love with her and welcomed the family, celebrating the event with dancing and a feast. Today, this settlement is known as ‘Tangata Enua.’ (Evening Activity; Shared Activity & No Transfers; Meal included: Dinner)

Discover everyday life at a 200-year-old village site, largely reconstructed to preserve the traditional heritage of the Cook Islands on this enjoyable excursion. After a hearty breakfast in your hotel, meet your local guide, and drive down to the historical site. Once home to the ancient islanders, the village today is a living museum, with reconstructed homesteads, actual ceremonial grounds, and even traditional underground ovens (umu) that were once used for cooking ritual foods. Interact with the local community, who are proud to show you around and share their fascinating oral history with you. Learn about old rituals and traditions, getting to know how the ancient villagers lived, worked, and feasted in times gone by. Try your hand at weaving traditional fabrics and lend a hand in cooking a community lunch in the village umus. Enjoy the sumptuous island feast (or umukai) prepared by your gracious hosts. Share the table with your village hosts and join them for the traditional dances, learning the basic steps. Drive back to your hotel after the feast. (Available on Mon, Wed & Fri; Duration: Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Shared Activity & Transfers; Meal Included: Lunch; For special dietary needs, please inform us ahead of the tour; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)

Aitutaki is a picture-postcard tropical island, with palm trees, warm turquoise waters, coral reefs, and blue skies. Set your own pace on a full-day tour of Aitutaki and its surroundings. Start at the CICC church in Arutanga town, the oldest church in the Cook Islands. It was restored in 2010 with beautiful stained-glass windows, fine carved wood-paneling and an old anchor suspended from the ceiling. Cruise the island’s crystal-clear lagoon and go swimming or snorkeling at a marine reserve, with giant trevallies, turtles and coral clusters. At One Foot Island you can get your passport stamped at the world’s smallest post office. The adventurous could hire a kayak or outrigger canoe and paddle to the nearest islet a few hundred meters away. Learn about Aitutaki’s history, ancient traditions, cooking and weaving techniques from the passionate and knowledgeable guides at the Punarei Cultural Village. Go on a guided tour of the maraes (sacred places) to experience native lifestyle during the pre-European era. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included).