Roots Less Travelled Cook Islands – Escorted Tour
04 March 2025 - 14 March 2025
Pricefrom $7499 pp twin share
DetailsBe immersed in the less travelled Cook Islands outer islands as you partake in cultural customs, exclusive Invite Only experiences, and a simpler lifestyle.
Holiday Package Inclusions
Package Highlights
Experience authentic Cook Islands culture as you explore Nga-Pu-Toru, a local term meaning The Three Roots that refers to the family ties of the Ariki (chiefs) of Atiu, Mauke, and Mitiaro. These less visited outer islands will give an insight into the traditional way of life in the Southern Outer Cook Islands, with additional stops in Mangaia and Rarotonga to round out this 11-day fully escorted tour. Be immersed in these roots less travelled as you partake in cultural customs, exclusive Invite Only experiences, and a simpler lifestyle.
- Explore the Nga-Pu-Toru outer islands (Atiu, Mauke, and Mitiaro), with stops in Mangaia and Rarotonga
- Exclusive charter flights throughout the Southern Cook Islands
- Exclusive & Unique Experiences
- Tumunu Social Gathering in Atiu
- Mitiaro Culture Tour
- Visit the local school and church in Mauke
- Lively Dinner Entertainment in Mangaia
- Highland Paradise Island Night in Rarotonga
- Options to Upgrade your experience in Rarotonga with:
– Aitutaki Day Tour (completing all six inhabited Southern Cook Islands)
– Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise
– Half-Day Fishing Charter
– Extended stays in Rarotonga or Aitutaki
Holiday Package Prices
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Tuesday 04 March (B,D)
Upon arrival in Rarotonga, you'll be welcomed with a fresh flower Ula (Lei) and bottled water. From there, you'll transfer via charter flight to Atiu where you'll spend two nights at Atiu Villas, receiving an island briefing on arrival. The afternoon will be dedicated to an island Eco tour, and before dinner, you'll visit a Tumunu, a local social gathering spot, to connect with community members and share your stories in a unique and engaging setting.
Day 2 – Wednesday 05 March (B,D)
An early breakfast has been arranged, where a local will take you to the coast for a sunrise meal. The day includes a tour to Punarea, subject to availability, or alternatively, a visit to a coffee plantation. In the evening, you'll enjoy an Island Night dinner featuring entertainment from a local village.
Day 3 – Thursday 06 March (B,D)
Enjoy breakfast at Areora Café at your convenience, with options to walk there or arrange transport if needed. Later in the morning, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Mitiaro. Upon arrival, you'll be taken to Divine Retreat, where you'll stay for two nights and receive a briefing on the island. Breakfast and dinner are included during your stay. You will experience an Island Tour to make the most of your time on Mitiaro.
Day 4 – Friday 07 March (B,D)
Today’s itinerary includes a Cultural Tour, offering an in-depth experience of Mitiaro's traditions and heritage.
Day 5 – Saturday 08 March (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we’ll depart for Mauke, where upon arrival you’ll receive a briefing from the island elders along with a light lunch. You’ll then check in at Ri’s Retreat for a two-night stay, with breakfast and dinner provided by the local village. During your stay at Ri’s Retreat, you'll tour the island this afternoon and meet local Mama’s crafting handmade goods and Mauke Miracle Oil.
Day 6 – Sunday 09 March (B,D)
After breakfast, join your hosts to visit the unique Mauke Church, renowned for its distinctive interior designs. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Day 7 – Monday 10 March (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we'll visit the local school to meet the pupils and observe how education operates on a remote island. We’ll then return to the property to collect our bags and head to the airport for our flight to Mangaia. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to Babe’s Place, where you'll stay for two nights. Accommodations will be either with private or shared facilities, and your stay includes breakfast and dinner daily. After checking in, we’ll embark on an island tour of Mangaia, guided by representatives from each of the three main villages, with a light lunch provided en route.
Day 8 – Tuesday 11 March (B,MT,D)
After breakfast, we’ll take you on a tour to learn how Ei Pupu necklaces are made, allowing you to participate in this fascinating process, with light refreshments provided. In the evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a lively performance from a string band.
Day 9 – Wednesday 12 March (B,D)
After breakfast, we’ll return to Rarotonga and transfer to Club Raro Resort for a two-night stay. This evening, we’ll head to Highland Paradise for an Island Night show, where you’ll enjoy a memorable evening of history, culture, and a delicious dinner.
Day 10 – Thursday 13 March (B,D)
A tropical breakfast will be served in the morning, and the day is yours to enjoy at leisure on Rarotonga. This evening, a 2-course farewell dinner will be provided at the resort. An optional Aitutaki Day tour can be added for those interested in visiting the sixth inhabitied island of the Southern Cook Islands Group.
Day 11 – Friday 14 March (B)
Say farewell to Rarotonga as you conclude your escorted tour of the Southern Cook Islands. This unforgettable journey has offered you a unique glimpse into the beauty and culture of this stunning island group. Options to extend your stay are available.
Meals - (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Terms and Conditions
Prices are indicative only and are subject to change and availability, and are in Australian Dollars. This tour is not a guarantee departure and a minimum of 10 passengers must be reached for the tour to go ahead. When booking as a solo traveller, please be aware that a solo room is not guaranteed. Solo travellers may be assigned to a shared room with another solo traveller of the same sex due to the limited availability of the accommodations. Any specific rooming, seating or dietary requests are welcomed, however not guaranteed. While every effort is made to provide correct information at the time of publication, the itinerary is subject to change for unforeseen circumstances at any time. Prices are correct as of 28 August 2024. Conditions, amendment and cancellation fees apply.
Deposit:Â A non-refundable deposit is due upon booking: flights + $250 per person. Booking after 24 November 2024 full payment is required.
Final Payment: Final payment is due: 24 November 2024. Payment can be made by personal or bank cheques or by direct deposit into our Commonwealth Bank account. If you would prefer to pay by Visa or Mastercard, please add 1.5% to the total cost of your holiday package.
Changes & Amendments:Â Changes can be made up to 48 hours (notification business days only) prior to departure at a change fee of $200 per person plus any applicable upgrade fees, subject to availability.
Cancellation: Airfares are subject to availability and non-refundable after issue. Full refund of land only will only be provided only if minimum travel numbers have not been reached and the tour cannot go ahead.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect you against some unforeseen cancellations.
Quote: OHFG268491