Thoughts of the Cook Islands often conjure up lazy days on the beach, cocktails by the pool and long snoozes in a hammock. And all of these holiday activities are readily available and highly recommended!
Another side to the Cook Islands is filled with jungle adventures, adrenaline pumping water sports and evening activities to rival any city metropolis. Take a walk on the wild side with these heart pounding adventures….before you swing gently in the hammock that is.
Rongohiva Watersports
The 8.5-meter Gemini V-hull rigid inflatable boat was built for speed and maximum fun. The twin 250 horsepower engines will skim you across the ocean and have you riding the waves in the open water. Captain Nga and Captain Teariki push the inflatable hull to its limits with twist and turns as the boat performs a delicate dance on the high seas.
This one hour thrill ride will have you darting atop the waves and racing along the Rarotonga shoreline. Spectacular views of the coastline and mountains zip by and in the right season keep your eye open for whales breaching the water’s surface.
Whale watching cruises operate July to October and other year round options include banana boat rides and a two hour snorkelling tour.
Akura Fishing Charters
Targeting Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and the prized grandaddy game fish of them all, the Blue Marlin, the crew of ‘Akura’ are serious about their fishing. The 40 foot boat provides a fantastic day of game fishing with ample room for groups of all sizes. Holding the record for the largest Blue Marlin caught in the Cook Islands, these crew members are not about to lose their title!
There are two game fishing tour options available. A half day tour which runs between 4-5 hours either morning or afternoon and a full day tour of approximately 8 hours. Get your game plan on, strap in and get ready for some serious fishing off the fertile waters of Rarotonga.
Coconut Quad Bike Adventure Tours
Come rain or shine this tour operates in all weather. Probably for the fact that you WILL get wet and muddy which is all part of the attraction! Venturing through muddy and rocky terrains, crossing streams and weaving through the thick tropical jungle, the four wheel Yamaha Quad bikes will take you on a true island adventure.
Tours are approximately 2.5 hours long around Rarotonga’s beautiful valleys including a stop for swimming in a fresh water creek. Coconut Quad tours are suitable for families and thrill seekers of all ages with orientation included prior to riding. The tours run daily at 1030am and 130pm.
Raro Pub Crawl Party Bus
There is one sure thing about the locals - they know how to party! The crew from the famous Rehab Bar and Nightclub will pick you up along the main highway and deliver you safely back home at the end of the night in the infamous Raro party bus. With a serious sound system, comfortable seating, multi coloured lighting and dance poles up the centre aisle, a great time with your new besties is assured.
Visiting Raro’s best bars and nightclubs along the way, the Rehab team ensure a night of games, fun and laughter. This tour needs to be booked ahead of time as it sells out fast. The bus operates every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night.
Rehab part bus gearing up for the night ahead. Photo courtesy of Rehab Bar and Nightclub.
Storeytellers Eco Cycle Tour
Offering three cycling options – Discover, Explore, Excite – the Storytellers team takes you through lane ways, back roads and the small villages of Rarotonga. You will explore the beautiful mountain scenery while learning of the rich culture and history of the people and their land. Pre-planned stops will show you how the main food staples of taro and arrowroot are grown coupled with local village stories and tales.
Several bush food stops are made and you can sample the local and organic produce fresh from the trees. Riding equipment is provided with a full safety briefing prior to departure, making it suitable for all ages. There are some inclines but generally the terrain is flat.
Running over 3-4 hours with a lunch stop and time for a swim in a fresh waterhole, the Eco Storeyteller ride is a unique and recommended way to see Rarotonga.
Cycling the back lane ways. Photo courtesy of Jason Dutton-Smith.
Raemaru Mountain Trekking
Raemaru Mountain’s summit soars 350 metres above sea level. Climbing the front of the mountain and finishing with an exhilarating 15 meter rock face climb to the top, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view that overlooks the ranges, valleys and dense forest and all the way to the lagoon and open ocean.
Local Rarotonga guides provide expert commentary with historical facts and legends of the ancient village of Puaikura. Learn about the village chief, his fierce warriors and the tribe that once lived and roamed these very mountains.
With only a minimum of two people for the tour run and taking approximately 3-4 hours this tour will leave you inspired.
Looking out from the mountain summit. Photo courtesy of Raemaru Mountain Trekking Tours.Ready to explore this beautiful wilderness? Check out the Cook Islands Travel Guide!
