Cook Islands Arrival
and entry requirements
The Cook Islands
Pacific Travel Guides
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Tourist Information

Arrival and Entry
IMPORTANT
Proof of pre-booked accommodation is required on entry to the Cook Island although in recent years this requirement has been softened and independent travellers have been able to enter without pre-bookings. To be safe, it is best to book your first few nights in advance as many properties are often full.

Cook Islands Accommodation Guide

Airport = Rarotonga, north west coast of Rarotonga, 3km from Avarua Town.

Visas =
Visas are not required. A visitor permit for 31 days is granted to all Nationals on arrival on presentation of a valid passport for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay and a ticket for return or onward travel is required on entry. Visas can be extended for up to six months at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration in Rarotonga.

Vaccinations = None required
except for yellow fever and cholera if coming from an infected area. Importation of plants, animals and associated products is strictly prohibited.

Transfers = No public airport bus but can get on the Raro Tour Bus if space available - cost NZ$20 per person. Taxi costs NZ$30 to furthest point on Rarotonga. Mostly hotels and guesthouses provide meet and greet service with flowers and leis.

Banking = Westpac bank opens for all international flights.

Departure Tax = NZ$25 or NZ$10 under 12 years, infants free.

Time = 10 hours behind GMT (London),

Others = Some duty free shops. Luggage storage lockers (with padlocks) available for about NZ$4 per day - enquire at the firestation - alternatively, Raro Tours can store bags in their office for short-term.


Flights to the Cook Island

On-Line Travel Insurance Companies

For those sailing to the Cook Island, there are four ports of entry. The main entry is at Avarua harbour on Rarotonga - fly your Q flag on arrival and a customs rep will meet come aboard. Other official ports of entry are Aitutaki, Penryn and Pukapuka.

Cook Islands Tourist Information


Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:

Fiji Tourist Information
Samoa Tourist Information
Tonga Tourist Information
Tahiti Tourist Information
Hawaii Tourist Information






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