10 Best Tours of Rarotonga

The locally owned and operated Cook Islands Tours offers a few popular tours of Rarotonga, more famously their "Progressive Dinner Tour", but if you want to see more of the island, do their "Orientation & Sightseeing Tour".

Their 2 hrs 30 mins tour is a must for first-time visitors, pointing out some excellent places to eat on the island, interesting activities to do, as well as stopping by some cultural attractions that you can tick off the list, such as Black Rock and the Rarotonga Brewery.

Also check out their guided tours of the capital, Avarua, and much more, as listed in the 15 Best Things to Do in Avarua.

Koka Lagoon Cruises offers one of the most well-rounded half-day experiences on Rarotonga, combining glass-bottom boat views, guided snorkelling and a barbecue lunch on a private island, all with a live ukulele band setting the mood from the moment you step aboard.

Departing at 10 am from Muri Beach, the four-hour "Rarotonga Glass Bottom Lagoon Cruise" takes you to the Tikioki Marine Reserve, where you'll snorkel among colourful fish and giant clams (gear provided) before heading ashore on Motu Koromiri for a barbecue feast prepared by on-site chefs.

Back on the water, the fun continues with a coconut demonstration and pareu tying, with the crew keeping the energy high throughout. Resort transfers are included, with pick-up and drop-off from all resorts island-wide via Cook Island Transport. Cruises run Sunday through Friday, and children five and under go free.

Another spectacular orientation tour of Rarotonga, Raro Tours' "Island Discovery Tour" is an excellent way to get acquainted with the island, including its snorkelling spots.

The three-hour tour also includes a few exclusive highlights of its own, such as stops and commentary at historical maraes (ancient gathering places), visits to local industries like a perfume factory, and tastings of locally made liqueurs. You'll also stop for a coconut husking demonstration to learn more about the "Tree of Life".

Tours start at 10 am, include transfers and operate Monday to Friday. 

Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours offers a fantastic range of ways to explore Rarotonga, from guided cycling tours and leisurely walks to a foodie truck adventure.

Their cycling tours begin with a briefing, letting guests choose their focus: food, history, art and culture, or a bit of everything. Pedal past charming villages, learn about the island's rich history along the ancient Ara Metua coral road, and enjoy tastings of local fruits en route. The "Discover" tour suits beginner cyclists, while the "Explore" tour is ideal for more experienced riders. Both finish with a delicious local lunch.

Prefer to go on foot? The "Afternoon Stroll" walking tour offers a relaxed way to take in the island's beauty and culture.

Foodies should also look out for the "Market Farm to Fork" truck tour, departing Punanganui Market on Saturday mornings at 9:30 am. It winds through back roads, stops at a local garden and finishes at the beach on the south side of the island, with tastings of local produce throughout.

Literally circumvent the entire island of Rarotonga with TVK Watersports, renowned for their exhilarating jet ski tours! Choose between two guided options: a thrilling one-hour tour covering half the island or an epic whole island adventure lasting up to two and a half hours.

You’ll love the professional yet flexible approach, allowing you to explore at your own pace rather than strictly following the guide.

Led by Marama, a skilled guide with a background in surf rescue, safety is paramount. Tours are tailored to suit, often including snorkelling and spearfishing opportunities. With a maximum of four jet skis per tour, you’re guaranteed an intimate experience.

Drivers must be at least 16 with a restricted licence, while passengers must be at least eight years old. Two can share a jet ski for the same price, making it a perfect activity for couples or friends. We recommend booking early, as rescheduling is common due to changing weather and water conditions.

Almost identical to Koka Lagoon Cruises, Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes also offers a fun-filled half-day on the waters of the Muri Lagoon daily. The main differences are that the cruise departs a little later (11 am instead of 10 am for Koka) and the crew are a little more "cheeky", which might not click with everyone's humour.

Nevertheless (or more, depending on how you look at it), the tour still includes an awesome time snorkelling, indulging in an island barbecue on Motu Koromiri, and watching a fun coconut and sarong demonstration.

See more tours with amazing snorkelling in the 5 Best Snorkelling Tours in Rarotonga.

Jump in a characterful safari Jeep and hit the coast road, back roads and dirt tracks with Raro Safari Tours. This three-hour adventure combines history and culture as you travel along the inland road, exploring historical sites and visiting plantations.

The highlight? Racing up the dirt tracks of an inland mountain to a spectacular viewpoint of Te Rua Manga, a.k.a. The Needle. The tour also includes a stop at Papua Waterfall (Wigmore's Waterfall) and plenty of humour!

Raro Safari Tours operates Monday to Friday, with morning departures at 9:30 am. It's a fantastic way to explore Rarotonga's rugged interior and learn about local culture.

Drive yourself on an exciting off-roading adventure with Raro Buggy Tours or Raro Quad Tours, two self-drive tours that take you deep into Rarotonga's muddy trails, lush valleys and tropical forests.

Choose between one or two-seater 4x4 buggies (lasting 1 hr 30 mins to 2 hours) or single and double quad bikes (lasting 2 hours to 2 hrs 30 mins). Either way, your passionate local guide will get you acquainted with your vehicle before heading off the beaten track toward the Papua Waterfall (also known as Wigmore's Waterfall), while sharing the history and origins of Rarotonga along the way.

Buggy tours depart at 8:30 am, 11:30 am and 2:30 pm; quad tours depart at 8:30 am and 12:30 pm, Monday to Saturday. Note that drivers must be 18 or over with a valid overseas car licence, and passengers must be at least six years old. Arrive 30 mins before departure.

Experience the underwater wonders of Rarotonga with Raro Reef Sub, offering a unique semi-submersible tour to the deep outer reef. From April to December/January, you'll have the chance to spot large pelagic fish, turtles, sharks, and even whales.

The 1 hr 25 mins to 1 hr 30 mins journey takes you around the RMS Maitai shipwreck and to hard-to-reach locations. As a bonus, a portion of your trip cost goes towards local conservation efforts!

Tours depart from Avatiu Harbour (Avarua) Sunday to Friday, with three to four daily departures, weather permitting. It's an eco-friendly way to explore Rarotonga's marine life without getting wet! This is also a spectacular option with kids, as listed in the 30 Things to Do on Rarotonga with Kids.

Want to experience the breathtaking beauty of Aitutaki without committing to an overnight stay? Air Rarotonga's popular Aitutaki Day Tour is your ticket to paradise!

This all-inclusive adventure departs from Rarotonga Airport at 8 am daily (except Sundays) and returns around 5:30 pm, giving you a full day of island exploration. Your journey begins with a scenic flight to Aitutaki, followed by a guided island bus tour.

The highlight? A spectacular cruise aboard the 27 m Vaka Tereiki Moana, where you'll have ample opportunities for island hopping, snorkelling, swimming, and beach-combing in the stunning lagoon.

Worked up an appetite? Enjoy a mouthwatering barbecue lunch featuring freshly caught fish and delicious island-style side dishes. And don't worry about packing – beach towels and snorkelling gear are provided. It's the perfect way to get a taste of Aitutaki's magic!