If you travel to the South Pacific between Hawaii and New Zealand you will find an archipelago of incredible natural beauty, the Cook Islands, made up of 15 small and beautiful islands surrounded by spectacular and crystal clear turquoise waters. Its capital is Avarua city and the population of this region is located on Rarotonga Island, which thanks to its system of democratic-parliamentary government freely associated with its neighbor New Zealand, some of the citizens of the island have dual citizenship.
These islands were inhabited for the first time in the 6th century by Polynesian immigrants from Tahiti; different Spanish conquerors also went through them who gave different names to some of the islands, such as the “Pukapuka” which was named “San Bernardo” and the “Rakahanga” called “Beautiful People”. However, who discovered it in the end was Captain James Cook in 1773, claiming it as part of the British crown and placing his name. The protection and representation of the archipelago falls under the responsibility of New Zealand, although over the years the islands have grown independently.
Tourism is one of the main sources of income of the country, accompanied by agriculture and the exportation of exotic fruits of the sea; in the same way, other economic entries come from the boat business and from rare, but beautiful, black pearls.
Some of the tourist activities are more on the main island “Rarotonga”, where visitors can enjoy a swim as well as practice snorkeling and also enjoy the beautiful reefs that are found throughout the island. Here you can see a wide variety of sea life thanks to its crystal clear waters. In many of the beaches you can also practice “sea scooter”, this fun activity that consists of driving some super thrusters that help you move under the water quickly, this is undoubtedly something incredible. Also, do “sup”, which consists of paddling on a surfboard, where you can relax and have fun while being on the water.
On the other hand, thanks to its volcanic personality the island has small hills or mountains full of jungle, it promotes hiking, it has “trekking” routes that will allow you to tour the island, either on your own or with a guide, maybe this last one is the best option, since you will get help to know better all the natural treasures of the island.
One of the best ways to travel and get to know the island is by taking a ride on a motorbike or bicycle, in this way you will realize how small it is to be able to take a full turn, by its only circular road, in 45 minutes, approximately.
While traveling around the island take the opportunity to visit the artisans of the region and buy some souvenirs to take home, visit the market, there you will find food stalls where you can enjoy their typical dish “Umu”, you will also have the pleasure of watching dances and musical acts; go through the small bars like “Vaiana Bristo and Bar” and you will see that you will not fail to have a good time in these Cook Islands, a true paradise of the Pacific.
ALFA