Rarotonga Southern Cook Islands, Cook Islands Travel Guide
Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is the only international airport in the Cook Islands. All international flights arrive and depart from this single terminal. Its small size makes for easy navigation.
Direct flights from major global hubs are mainly from Oceania and North America.
A duty-free shop can be used for arrivals and departures, offering liquor, tobacco, and perfumes.
A cafe provides snacks and drinks. Airport facilities are compact but functional.
Car rental desks are situated inside the terminal. Currency exchange services are also available.
Rarotonga is an island. Land transportation mainly refers to getting around the island, not cross-border travel. All coming in and going out is via the airport or seaport.
Rarotonga does not have any train services. "The Bus" is the island's only public bus service, operating locally all over the island's circumference. There are no long-distance bus companies.
Renting a vehicle offers flexibility. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. A local scooter license is compulsory and obtained at the Avarua Police Station.
Rarotonga has a single main road, Ara Tapu, that circles the island's coastline for approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles). An older, inner road, Ara Metua, runs parallel in some sections.
Drivers should be aware of several potential hazards for safe travel.
Renting a vehicle offers freedom for exploration.
Various local and international companies offer rental cars.
While Rarotonga is an island, sea arrivals are less common for general tourism.
Immigration procedures for cruise passengers are typically streamlined.
Avatiu Harbour serves as a stop for international cruise ships, offering passengers day visits to the island.
Cruise passengers are typically granted a temporary landing permit for the duration of their ship's stay, with procedures handled onboard.
Avatiu Harbour in Rarotonga with boats. If arriving by cruise ship, consider pre-booking a tour.
As of 2024, the Cook Islands departure tax is typically included in the international air ticket price. Verify this with your airline or travel agent at booking to avoid last-minute surprises.
The process is straightforward at RAR, a small and user-friendly airport.
A duty-free shop is available for last-minute purchases of liquor, perfumes, and souvenirs.
A small cafe provides snacks and beverages. Ample seating is available in the exit lounge for waiting.
Wi-Fi is available, though it may be chargeable or slow. Plan accordingly.
An image of Rarotonga International Airport departure lounge.
