Cook Islands Country Guide
Deep in the heart of the South Pacific, you'll find the 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands. Technically, Cook Island residents are New Zealand citizens, but the islands are their own self-governing parliamentary democracy. With a mix of tropical sights, outdoor adventures, and year-round warm temperatures, the Cook Islands are paradise to visit!
Raratonga is the largest island and the country's capital - and it's also the main hub of activity. It offers great swimming and diving along a huge coral reef. It's also home to jungles and mountains - so you can experience a little bit of everything!
If you're looking for complete relaxation, head over to Aitutaki. Only about 2,000 people call Aitutaki home - meaning that you will practically have the reef, lagoons, and palm-tree lined beaches all to yourself!
No matter which island you're on, you can take part in some great fishing. In fact, the Cook Islands are home to great game fishing. Here, you can catch Marlin and Mahi Mahi year-round! Seafood plays a big role in the menus here. Adding to the tropical ambiance, many of the traditional dishes here come with sauce that's made from fresh fruits.
If you really want to get the "lay of the land" in the Cook Islands, take one of the popular lagoon cruises. Some of the most popular leave from Muri. Onboard, you'll get to see everything from both the deck and through a glass-bottom boat! If you want to get up close and personal with the sights, you're welcome to go snorkelling during most cruises.
If you only speak English, you're in luck. English and the traditional Cook Island Maori language are both spoken here.