The cross island trek on Rarotonga is the most popular hiking trail in the Cook Islands. The trail literally crosses from the north side of Rarotonga to the south side passing Te Rua Manga needle at 413 metres. It's a fairly challenging trek through tropical rainforest but one that can quite easily be done on your own if you are a confident hiker and the rains haven't been heavy. For those less certain, Pa's mountain treks offers guided treks twice a week. The walk is best approached from the north coast from Avarua Town. The trek takes about 3 hours and finishes at Papua Waterfall where you can take a refreshing swim in season (waterfall usually dries out from July to October). If you want to visit the waterfall without doing the strenuous trek over the mountains, approach from the south side along a dirt trail for about half an hour.

Rarotonga Tour Companies Cook Island Resort Listings

Our top 10 things to do in the Cook Islands:

1) Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise - island hopping, beaches and snorkelling

2) Traditional Dance Shows - best dancers in the South Pacific

3) Overnight trip to Atiu Island - caves and traditional life

4) Explore Rarotonga by Moped - buzz around Rarotonga

5) Aerial Sightseeing around Rarotonga - take to the air

6) Night on the Town - fine dining and great nightlife

7) Cook Islands Cultural Centre, Rarotonga - handicrafts and stories

8) Muri Beach, Rarotonga - activity beach centre on Rarotonga

9) Cross Island Hike - Rarotonga - rainforest and waterfall

10) Learn to Scuba Dive - relaxed scuba diving courses for beginners


Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:

Fiji Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Samoa Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tonga Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tahiti Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Hawaii Tours - Top 10 Attractions

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