Budget accommodation in the Cooks

Hi everyone,
I'm a 23 year old guy. I'm going to spend 10 days approx. in the Cook Islands in about a month. I'm thinking of visiting Aitutaki as well Raro and maybe one more island.

My questions are:
1. What are the best budget accommodation options right now in those places (I understand it changes all the time, depending on the owner)?
2. What is the cheapest/safest way of transport between the islands and how much time ahead do you need to book?
3. Are there any activities that are worth doing in the Islands besides reading a book on the beach (Island night, parties, trips, boat trips...)?
All replies will be greatly appreciated!
Uri

If you want to hit RAr and Aitutaki and one other island, choose Atiu, as you can get a triangle fare on Air Rarotonga. All inter-island travel by tourists is by air (well, 99%). Freighters are erratic, you'd need a month or two to be sure of anything on them.

The connections between Aitutaki and Atiu, and Atiu and RAR, are only once or twice a week. so, I'd plan it out in advance and book the air before you go. Maybe 4 days RAR, 4 on Aitutaki, and 2 on Atiu, or something similar.

Lots of budget places on RAR, aside from the most-listed ones, also check out Aremango Hostel at Muri Beach, and Papa Rau's guesthouse along the south coast. Both are quieter than Vara's, etc.

Do the Cross-Island hike on RAR. Use the guide named "Pa" if you can afford it (NZ$60 or so). If not, go with someone else, and leave on the trail by late morning, as you may get lost on the way down.

Safari Tours on RAR is also interesting.

You don't need a lagoon tour on RAR, check my post on the FAQ at the top of this branch for best places to snorkel.

On Aitutaki definitely take a lagoon tour. Only hike is up a little hill, lots of mozzies---all over Aitutaki, so bring insect repellent.

On Atiu go to the kopeka cave, see the coffee plantation, and definitely go to a Tumunu bush beer place with a local host from your accommodation.

See the website www.ck for more info.

Have fun!

Hi there! My name's Kristene and my husband and I manage Matriki Beach Huts, (yes, we are budget!). Here are some answers for you:

1. Budget accom on Aitutaki includes: Amuri Guest House, Vaikoa Units, Tom's Beach Cottages, Rino's Beach Bungalows, and us, Matriki Beach Huts. There are probably others but these are the ones I'm familiar with.

2. The only transport between the islands is Air Rarotonga, (unless you want to take a freighter, which is not cheaper and not reliable). Their website is www.airraro.com. If you have only ten days, three islands might be a bit hectic, not to mention pricey.

3. As for activities, well, on Aitutaki it is all about the lagoon. Plan to do at least one lagoon/snorkel tour, there are several to choose from depending on how active/adventurous you are. Depending on your budget you might also want to do a fishing charter? Rent a kayak and paddle around. Island Night is a must do. On Aitutaki, Puffy's restaurant or Samade on the Beach are probably the best value for Island Nights. Rent a scooter or push bike and explore the island. Visit Tauono's organic garden. Snorkel, snorkel, snorkel! Hike to the top of Maungapu. Relax and enjoy living on island time!

Cheers!