Aitutaki island

Aitutaki is an atoll in the South Pacific (Cook Islands). This is an upscale destination, famous for it's aerial photo shots. Fortunately, budget travelers have some opportunities. Small remoted islets (so-called motu) give the most beautiful landscapes with palms and great lagoon view. Beach and seabed: sand, coral chips. [edit]

Coordinates: -18.888259, -159.778317

See also: Best beaches in Aitutaki

Hotels [edit]

Expensive, but few budget accommodations are also available. Book in advance if you plan to visit Aitutaki in high season (June-August).

How to get there [edit]

Fly to Rarotonga International Airport (RAR). Then fly to Aitutaki Airport (AIT).

If you are not interested in staying on Rarotonga, you may try to buy a ticket from your city to Aitutaki. For example, the cost of two flights New Zealand - Rarotonga and Rarotonga - Aitutaki usually higher than cost of flight New Zealand - Rarotonga - Aitutaki, purchased on one ticket.

The best way to explore main island is by bicycle. Cheap bike rental is located near Arutanga. Also some hotels give free bicycles to its guests.

When to go [edit]

From June to December. Remember that the maximum crowds of tourists here - from June to August.

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Useful information [edit]

Keep in mind that the island has good sandy beaches, but most of the beaches here - coral smooth fossilization (so-called "concrete") or coral chips. These beaches are very photogenic, but not comfortable to swim and sunbathe.

Also there are no good supermarkets on the island, - only few basic stores. So think about the hotel restaurant. Also you may go to an independent restaurant Tupuna Cafe (works in the afternoon except Sunday), - cozy and relatively inexpensive. Dishes are of good quality, but not too tasty.

Lagoon and small islets (motu) located along its perimeter - is the main Aitutaki attraction. The most common way to explore the lagoon - package tours (from 70 New Zealand dollars per person). You can also order a personal tour (400 NZD per day / 250 NZD per half day for two). Also so-called "Lagoon water bus" goes from Arutanga port (65 NZD roundtrip per person, no Sundays).