Top Cook Islands Culture in 2026

Expand your knowledge on the history of Avarua without spending hours doing research. Instead, follow a guide around the city’s essential sightseeing spots, and learn the stories behind its notable buildings and historical sites. Places showcased include the Palace of Justice, the university, and one of the island’s oldest churches.

Join us on the only foodie tour that takes you on a food experience from the market, to the local farms, and onto you plate! Visit the market and learn about what the local food vendors are selling at the market. Then, head out on our truck along the Rarotonga inland roads and see local produce growing - learn about how it is grown and used. Lastly, taste a sample of local produce and dishes for a real Cook Islands lunch. - We only take out small groups so you will have an interactive, personalised experience (2 to 9 people); - Family friendly experience; - Our truck has seating on the back (island style) for up to 8 (at a squeeze), and 4 can sit inside; - We will take you back to the market at the end of the tour, or drop you off at your accommodation.

Enjoy a brief overview of Rarotonga’s history and culture; this tour covers several of the highlights in just a few hours. This tour gives you a sense of the island and its landmarks that will serve you well if you want to explore on your own. See beyond the gloss of the tourist area and learn more about the natural, cultural, and political heritage which makes this place unique. Visit limestone churches, lagoons, and The Garden of Seven Canoes.

This is the perfect tour for wildlife lovers. Save time searching for marine life and go on a tour to a place where you are guaranteed to swim with turtles. A photographer accompanies you throughout the experience to take photos of you and the turtles. After the tour, get online access to the photographs through a digital photo album.

Get your bearings on this quick Rarotonga sightseeing tour ideal for first time visitors. Discover some of the must-see highlights combining Rarotonga’s culture, history and local way of life. Attend an informative pearl talk, where you’ll learn about this important and iconic Cook Islands export. Explore the beautiful, vibrant island with the benefit of a guide.

Pedal around Rarotonga on a relaxed 4-hour bicycle tour. Follow your local guide through the island's villages, down picturesque lanes and past breathtaking mountainous scenery. Listen to your guide's informative commentary about the culture, history, folklore and traditions of the native islanders. After a leisurely 3 hours of biking, covering approximately 5 to 7.5 miles (8 to 12 km), stop for a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Wash off the road dust with a swim at a secluded beach. Lunch, round-trip hotel transportation and use of all cycling equipment is included.

ONLY AVAILABLE JUNE - NOVEMBER Every tour contributes to active whale research, with experienced guides conducting photo identification and recording behavioural observations that support conservation and responsible whale tourism. Small group sizes ensure a personal, unhurried experience with more time in the water and increased swim opportunities, suitable for solo travellers, couples, and adventure seekers. Professional photography is included, allowing you to stay present while receiving high quality images of your encounter. Tours are led by highly experienced guides and conducted ethically and safely, with whale welfare as the priority, we have decades of experience with these majestic beings and it shows. Guests consistently highlight the strong organisation, knowledgeable crew, quality equipment, and exceptional whale encounters in pristine environments. This is a purpose led whale swim that delivers meaningful experiences while supporting whale protection.

Get an intimate experience of Rarotonga’s landscape and culture on a fun small-group walking tour. Your local guide will take you on a two-hour walk through various locations on the island, including the west side, along backroads and country paths that many travelers miss. Listen to your guide’s stories as you get some gentle exercise. The tour is suitable for families and anyone else who can walk at a leisurely pace.

Rather than rushing between sights in a car, opt for a more leisurely experience of Rarotonga on a relaxed bike tour that reveals more of the Cook Islands' largest island than you could cover by walking. A small group promises a chilled pace, while a local guide adds context to the natural and cultural hot spots you visit.