The north of the island of Rarotonga is the location of the national capital of the Cook Islands – Avarua. When translated from the Maori language, which is a local dialect, the name of the city literally means “two havens”. Indeed, Avarua lies between two harbors – Avarua Harbor and Avatiu Harbor. They are so narrow that they look more like paths in the reefs. In modern times, this settlement is a popular resort destination for foreign tourists, as well as the center of the political and commercial life of the region.
Avarua attracts fans of beach holidays and exotic nature, so the presence of interesting historic sights in the city and its surroundings becomes a pleasant surprise for travelers. Start … 
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Of course, the most popular entertainments among visitors to Avarua are beach recreation, water sports, and exploring local natural landmarks. The city is a great starting point for … Open
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Some tourists may ask what activities they can try in Avarua. The choice is truly amazing. Vacationers can watch big and gracious whales that swim freely in the ocean. Don’t forget to explore the area because local nature is unusual and unique. Don’t forget to check out a local attraction called “Seven in One Coconut Tree”. This is a very unusual tree – seven coconut palms grow from the same place. According to a local legend, all these trees grew from just one coconut. Moreover, this coconut was not ordinary – ancient gods planted the tree.
Avarua is a popular tourist destination, so it’s not surprising that it has many attractive stores and souvenir shops. However, you will not find large shopping centers offering the … Open
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Many tourists know Avarua as an open-air museum. When exploring the island, you will get acquainted with the ancient culture of the region and see traditional dances of Maori tribes. Traditional local huts provide a lot of valuable information about the lifestyle of indigenous people. Some of the huts are typical only for the Cook Islands. Local people are friendly and hospitable people who are always glad to see guests and are ready to share their secrets of cooking different dishes with coconut. By the way, locals can cook as many as three hundred different dishes with coconut.
Avarua attracts fans of beach holidays and exotic nature, so the presence of interesting historic sights in the city and its surroundings becomes a pleasant surprise for travelers. Start … Open
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The majority of countries do not have a direct airplane connection with the Cook Islands. Tourists might need to make several flights, and it may take approximately two days to arrive in Avarua. It is easy to reach the city from Aukland – the time in transit is only four hours. There is one flight a week from Los Angeles. However, tourists need to get a USA transfer visa in this case. It is also possible to get directly to Avarua from London’s airport.
Sightseeing in Cook Islands: things to see
Cruises have become an essential entertaining activity on the islands. Trips to marvelous lagoons and observation of rich underwater life on glass bottom boats will please both adults and children. The majority of cruises cover Anatakitaki and Atiu caves, which limestone caverns are dotted with stalactites and stalagmites. Other popular destinations include Aitutaki Lagoon and Maina Motu, where travelers will see motu (lagoon islets), coral ridges and rare animals.
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