Atui or Aitutaki

Your opinions please....

I will be traveling to Raro for the first time in February with two other gals who depart on the 15th, I stay on till the 19th. Right now, there are flights that fit the days perfectly to Aitutaki, Aitu is about $70 less and arrives back in Raro at a more convenient hour, but I have to hang an extra day in Raro and only get three nights away.

Can't really decide but am leaning towards the convenience of Aitutaki's departure date.

Is there anything about either of the two destinations that should make this a no-brainer? I'm not much of a hiker or trekker but would love to dive. Shamanism or the more spiritual side of the Islands is also of great interest to me, historical points too. I'm social so wouldn't mind hearing about somewhere I can 'get away from it all'....but still be likely to bump into someone to talk to at dinner or over a drink on a patio....

I appreciate your thoughts...

Just did a quick search and now know I'm a jerk for not doing that first, however fresh insight is always a good thing! Thanks.

You dont say what your new-found insight reveals, however I think you are all suited to Aitutaki more than Atiu. Aitutaki is much about its famous lagoon, and having more development compared to Atiu. Good opportunities for diving and snorkelling both within the lagoon on Aitutaki, or over the reef. Plenty of places to talk with people and meet others over a drink or meal. Aitutakians have a long and proud history of being entertainers, it shows! They are a very friendly, hospitable people. Atiu has a number of sacred sites, and has a haunting beauty very different to the geology and indeed the culture on Aitutaki. But you'd need to be prepared to hike or trek to these historic places. I've only snorkelled around garden cove on Atiu. Lovely unspoilt, uninhabited beaches with crystal clear seawater. The bar-diner at Atiu Villas is certainly the spot for meeting others. The tumunu (bush beer schools) are a hoot, but very rustic compared to having a sophisticated cocktail at the Pacific Resort or even Samade bar on Aitutaki. You'll find plenty of gorgeous locations to 'get away from it all' on either island. Have fun deciding!

For a first visit I'd recommend Aitutaki too. You'll probably want to come back to the Cooks. When you do you can arrange for more time and take in some of the other islands.

Also... if it's rainy, Aitutaki is much more pleasant than Aitu. Many of the back roads on Aitu are red clay and hilly. That makes for slippery going on a scooter!

Edited by: H2ooh

Good advise from the last two posters. There really is much more to do on Atiu, in terms of activities and tours. Aitutaki is all about the drop dead gorgous lagoon. You can not go wrong going to either so do a bit of research and decide which fits your needs.

Papa Mike