Cook Eilanden | Rarotonga | Avatiu haven
The central mountain range of the largest island, Rarotonga, comprises the remains of a volcanic pyramid. Dense tropical rainforests cover the pointed peaks and sharp mountain ridges, and from the air you can see how these forests run over into palm-lined beaches and a turquoise sea - a sight that will feel like a dream come true.
Rarotonga is a great place for walking. In little under four hours and accompanied by a guide, you can traverse the whole island. A scooter is also an ideal means by which to explore the island. The coastal route will take you all around the island and the older, more inland route leads you past farms, papaya plantations, sheds and shops. You can also relax and catch your breath at one of the restaurants, where you will be enticed into tasting one of the various delicious fish dishes. Poison cru is an example of such dishes, made from raw tuna that is marinated very briefly in lime juice. Coconut milk is then poured over the fish and this is mixed with fresh salad.
A large coral reef circles the island, breaking the waves in a breathtaking lagoon. Here you can windsurf, kite-surf, sail and snorkel. There is also a brightly coloured underwater world to be discovered in glass-bottomed boats. The capital, Avarua, has a friendly bustling atmosphere during the day, as well as great cafés, restaurants and shops where you can buy black pearls or handmade souvenirs. Avatiu Harbour, on the north coast of Rarotonga, is within walking distance of the centre and here you will find a hub of seafaring delights: moored private yachts from across the world and fisher's boats that have come to unload their catches.
