Hiking Tours & Diving in the Cooks

Kia Orana! Heading to the Cook Islands in April and am trying to do a rough itinerary to make the most of our time. A couple of questions for experienced Cookies out there!

Am wanting to hike the Cross-Island Mountain Trek. Is it ok to do it on your own (I'm in reasonable fitness but not a very experienced hiker) or should I do a tour with someone like Pa's Treks?

Heading to Aitutaki for the day. Best to do the One Day tour with Air Raro or just fly out an dsort ourselves out when there? Also, is flying there the only option for a day trip? At nearly $500 each return it's an expensive option!

Which is the better dive company on Raro for certified divers? Any suggestions for the best sites?

Lastly, great restauarant suggestions, hours the gym (Top Shape) is open and do you have to book to use the squash courts?

Thanks!!

One can do the cross-island hike if in good shape. You can do it on your own, but if you do, leave by 9am. Why? Independent hikers can get lost on the downhill side, so you'll need an extra hour or two to get back to the trail uphill if you do get lost.

I'd go with Pa if you can afford it. He provides pickup and drop-off, which is a pain in the neck if you do it on your own, esp. getting to the trailhead. Also, he does great commentary etc. and you won;t get lost.

I'd do the organized day trip to Aitutaki. If you tried to book it all on your own it would actually cost more, and you may miss a lagoon cruiise if they are booked up, or you miss the transfer, etc.

All the dive companies are pretty good. You should do OK with them all. All will pick you up and drop you off as well.

I got lost on the downhill side. Began wandering around in circles. Had started after 9 am, didn't tell anyone where I had gone. Fortunately a Swiss couple had started the hike even later.

It's the stream crossings that throw you off. I followed the trial to the stream. It seemed unlikely that one would cross the stream at that spot. The water was pretty deep and the rocks were far apart. I think that even with the Swiss guy holding my hand I slipped into the water. I did not notice the trial continuing on the other side. I'm amazed that the Swiss guy spotted it. He saw the trial continuing several times where I didn't see anything. You really have to look for it. And be prepared to cross the stream when you don't want to.

If you wish you had bought a machete then you are off the trial and heading in the wrong direction.

Good times!

If you've got the time it's worth spending a few days in Aitutaki. You can get accommodation for all budgets. If diving is your thing check Onu at bubbles below (in Aitutaki). Teking is the best for Aitutaki lagoon cruises in my opinion

I'd second the call to do Pa's trek, if for nothing else, his commentary. He's quite entertaining, but also knows all about the trails, etc.