Fifteen islands make up the Cook Islands, including the capital island of Rarotonga. The 15 islands exist over 850,000 square miles in the Pacific Ocean.
Adventurous travelers can embark on Rarotonga's Cross-Island hiking trail or enjoy the snorkeling opportunities around One Foot Island and Titikaveka. Travelers in search of relaxation can visit one of Avarua's many pubs or feast at one of the region's nightly dinner shows.
Lying south of the equator, the Cook Islands experience their summers from January to March, when you'll find comfortable temperatures (mid-80s) and humid conditions. June through August offer pleasant vacation temperatures with daytime highs in the mid-70s.
Air New Zealand and Air Rarotonga provide travel between the islands; the latter tends to offer cheaper rates. Ferry service between the islands does not exist. Freighters, which can accommodate tourists, run every few weeks.
Of the 15 islands, nine reside in the south and six in the north. The southern islands, including Rarotonga, remain the most heavily populated regions and are the most popular in terms of vacation destinations.
