Avarua Cultural Tours: Top 5 Picks & Helpful Tips

Cook Islands are, arguably, one of the jewels of the Pacific. If you are planning a visit, so you will land in Avarua, on Rarotonga. While it might be very tempting to simply lounge on those postcard beaches all day long, so it’s worth thinking about taking a small chunk of your time to experience something of the Cook Islands culture, too it’s almost more rewarding. Fortunately, Avarua has a lovely variety of cultural tours. Here are five top picks to get a real sense of the place and make memories that are so more special. These suggestions will, naturally, give you helpful tips so you make the most of every trip. Read our full review: Avarua Cultural Tours Full Review and Details.

1. Highland Paradise Cultural Centre: Feast and Show

Located inland, up in the hills, the Highland Paradise Cultural Centre really makes a statement. Very honestly, it offers visitors an immersive experience in a reconstructed ancient village. That being said, expect to see demonstrations of traditional crafts, learning just a little about local life in days gone by, and, as well, learning about the meaning of local traditions, too it’s almost quite the education. This excursion actually ends with a fantastic feast and a lively cultural show that is just a little spectacular. Getting involved might be rather encouraged! It is rather accessible, just a short drive from central Avarua, making it fairly convenient. This could be great so it might be a great one to book early in your trip, to get a taste – literally, if you’re up for it – of island culture. You may want to see Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Highland Paradise Cultural Centre).

2. Ariki Adventures: Inland and Cultural Tour

If seeing the interior of Rarotonga grabs you, then it is fair to say the Ariki Adventures Inland and Cultural Tour really packs in a punch. What makes this offering shine could be said to be the focus on both history and what they do for the ecosystem. Local guides talk you though the story of the area. And as a matter of fact, you may experience just a little Cook Islands medicine, its uses that date back many hundreds of years, and what natural treatments have done for generations of Cook Islanders, too it’s almost miraculous. It’s, also, arguably very interesting how they talk about their commitment to looking after their beautiful land and ecosystems. They are dedicated so everyone understands looking after the land. Their insight, that might resonate with all who visit, actually stays with you after the trip is over, which is why it’s recommended. This tour runs, mostly, throughout the week, it’s really a lovely excursion from Avarua. You might want to see Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Ariki Adventures Inland and Cultural Tour).

3. Cook Islands Cultural Village Tour

Experience Rarotonga in a, arguably, genuine village setup. The Cook Islands Cultural Village Tour makes quite the claim for cultural exploration by showing everyday skills such as weaving, carving, and cooking. Basically, demonstrations and stories are very engaging, and visitors could participate directly so it is more fun and they can experience culture more intensely. That is to say, your tour can end with a ‘umu’ feast, which involves cooking underground in a special traditional oven – a very nice thing to remember. Arguably, the location is handy, easily accessible from Avarua, and could just be an interesting spot that would please anyone seeking authentic experiences with less time. You may want to see Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Cook Islands Cultural Village Tour).

4. Maire Nui Gardens & Café

The Maire Nui Gardens and Café really brings in some charm with its beautiful setting and lovely insights. While not exactly like other organized ‘tours,’ there really are walks so very delightful and interesting. You are free, basically, to wander, to admire what grows there. Also you could gain a, just a little, casual understanding of what the island’s various plants can do and also, in some respects, have done. What’s more, visitors could refresh and enjoy locally sourced produce and delicacies while taking in some lush views – quite nice if you need something chill. As a matter of fact, it is near Avarua so the gardens offer a tranquil getaway for anyone looking to connect with nature while having some local flavors. You may want to see Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Maire Nui Gardens and Café).

5. Progressive Dinner Tour

The Progressive Dinner Tour takes food lovers all around Avarua’s cultural treasures by taking them into islanders’ houses and showing, and sharing, some island meals. Every section really is delicious and special. Basically you move to three homes. Locals provide their unique insights into family histories so they present traditional recipes. As a matter of fact, you meet local people very authentically while supporting island life. Taking some tour means very enriching interactions and great photo opportunities too! Typically departing from Avarua, this culinary trip is often remembered fondly. It really is suitable if you prefer to mix delicious meals and amazing interactions within small family settings! You may want to see Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Progressive Dinner Tour).

Read our full review: Avarua Cultural Tours Full Review and Details.