Visit Atiu for only 2 nights and 2 days? Or skip?

Hi. I'm very appreciative for everyone's input on the Lonely Planet tree forum. I have read 300+ pages of the south pacific and it has been very helpful.

I finally booked my flight from LA going to Cook->NZ->Fiji totaling 5-weeks. I'm staying in the Cook islands for 10 days and would like to visit Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and Atiu but due to the flight schedule, I would only be able to visit Atiu from Monday at noon until Wednesday at noon. Is this worth the trip? Or should I just concentrate on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Thanks again - Matt

For a first-time visit I'd spend equal time on Raro & Aitutaki. If you catch the CI bug and want to come back you'll have plenty of time to visit Aitu and the rest of the Southern Group. I've been to all three of your destinations multiple times but it's the Cooks that keeps pulling me back.

H2ooh. Thanks a lot for your advice. I wasn't sure about the island time split, but your suggestion of 50/50 between Raro and Aitutaki will be heeded. Trying to book accommodations at Matriki and strongly considering Rarotonga Backpackers. But not exactly sure which side of Raro to stay? No matter,l it sounds like you can't go wrong in the Cooks.

Last July/August I did the same, although I had a bit more time. I loved the Cooks, but in hindsight stayed too long on Rarotonga. Way more people there, so if you're into partying Raro has more to offer.

Aitutaki is much more quiet, and more beautiful imo. Matriki is good for location, beacause it's right on the beach. If you want cheaper accommodation ($40 single, $70 double) then try Amuri Guesthouse. Not right on the beach though, but clean, lovely people that run it and good value for money. It's close to a shop, (the only) internet cafe and a bike rental (good for exploring the island). Lagoon trips are recommended as well as getting a group together and let someone (Mattias from Matriki will do that) drop you off on a motu for the day. It's paradise!

Haven't been to Atiu but heard really good stories about it, so maybe cutting your time on Raro short(er)?

Fiji is lovely too. Have fun, you're in for a wonderful time!

Atiu has a very small population, all living in the centre of the island, and very small scale tourism! Which makes it lovely to me, I spent three days there last year and loved every minute of it. Superb snorkeling in and just outside the tiny harbour. Rent a rickety scooter and conquer the unpaved coastal road. Take the cave tour with Marshall. Marvel at the tivaevae made by the women. Go there for the outer island experience!