Aitu or Mangaia?

Hello,

I will go to Rarotonga soon and found that I should have enough time for a side trip to one of the outer islands. And now I cant decide between Aitu and Mangaia (been to Aitutaki already!!). Any recommendations?

Cheers,
Klaus

I'd throw Mauke in for consideration too. I've been to all five of the Southern Group and love them all. Here's my impressions:

Aitutaki... been there five times and find it hard to visit the Cooks without spending a few days there. Great snorkeling, entertainment, food & fun exploring but not many secluded spots.

Aitu... Great spot for exploring with great caves, good snorkeling and fishing, nice secluded beaches

Mangaia... Super caves, good for exploring, lots of opportunity for seclusion, hiking, etc

Mitiaro... The prettiest freshwater swimming grotto I've seen in the South Pacific and fun exploring, secluded beaches, good snorkeling & fishing.

Mauke... Very peaceful, very friendly good snorkeling, good fishing, fun exploring. And... you can walk around almost the entire island, 12 miles, in the shade of trees with pathways down to a pretty beach spots every 200 to 400 meters.

You'll be there in the rainy season so the hilly islands, Mangaia and Aitu can get difficult to get around on a scooter when it gets muddy. Ans a nice accommodation is a plus when you have to sit out a storm. The flatter islands have coral or paved roads that drain quickly and are easier to travel.

Enjoy a wonderful holiday!!!

Whichever Cook Island you choose you will be in the Polynesian triangle. I believe the educational podcasts here

http://amsamoa-busycorner.blogspot.com/

will give you a nice introduction into Polynesian culture and history before you get there.

An early education always enhances your travel experience. Enjoy!!

From Pago Pago, JW

Atiu or Mangaia? I think there is more to see and do on Atiu, with a wider range of accommodation.
This summer we havent received as much rain as in previous years, thanks to the La Nina weather pattern.
As you say Klaus, you've already visited Aitutaki but this magical island draws you back time and again for sure.
Enjoy your visit, kia manuia.

Atiu has small scale tourism, Mangaia has practically no tourism (when I stayed there last year in May I was the ONLY tourist). Both have great caves (take a tour) but only a few small beaches. The makatea (raised fossilized coral reefs) on Mangaia are more impressive.
On Mangaia I stayed at Babe's Place: http://www.babesplace.co.ck/
As there are no restaurants, meals prepared by two lovely ladies are included in the rate.