NewZealand

Arrival & Recovery on Rarotonga -- My favorite thing to do after an all-night plane ride getting here is to head into Avarua for a cup of strong coffee at The Cafe, then a stroll around the Cooks' little capital. Be sure to visit the Cook Islands Library and Museum. Spend the afternoon recovering with a swim or a sail at Muri Beach.

Rarotonga

Sampling Cook Islands Culture -- The demonstrations at the Cook Islands Cultural Village and its guided tour around Rarotonga will take most of this day. Later on don't miss one of the region's best island nights, featuring a feast and a lively dance show. If it's Friday or Saturday, make the obligatory "crawl" through Avarua's pubs.

Rarotonga

A Walk Across Rarotonga -- Plan to spend this morning hiking the Cross-Island Track, which literally traverses Rarotonga from north to south, passing the base of the famous Needle on the way. You will learn much as well as enjoy the views on a guided trek with Pa's Nature Walks. If you're not up to walking and climbing, Raro Safari Tours will take you into the interior mountains via four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Rarotonga

take an early morning flight from Rarotonga to Aitutaki. Spend that afternoon exploring Aitutaki's main island, Either on a guided tour or on your own via scooter or rental car. After sunset attend an island night buffet and dance show, Preferably at Samade on the Beach. Lagoon Tour on Aitutaki: Make sure to take at least one lagoon tour while you are on Aitutaki. Based on our hotel’s recommendation, we booked with Aitutaki Adventures which is one of the few boats that cruises along the west (less windy) side of the island, plus a stop at One Foot Island. Bishop’s Cruises is another popular one with slightly less people than Vaka Cruises.

Aitutaki

Spend all of day on an excursion out on the lagoon, one of the South Pacific's most beautiful You'll get to snorkel around tiny One Foot Island, one of my favorite things to do here. Have dinner at Cafe Tupuna..

Aitutaki

Enjoy the morning of day 6 on the beach before flying back to Rarotonga

Rarotonga

Depart Rarotonga Relaxing & Shopping on Rarotonga -- Spend the morning of your last day doing some shopping for black pearls, Tangaroa statues, and tropical clothing in Avarua. In the afternoon head over to Titikaveka for Rarotonga's best snorkeling.