quad bike tours rarotonga

• BACKPACKERS WANDERLUST - AN AWARD WINNING TRAVEL BLOG
• Work With Me

• DISCLOSURE & PRIVACY POLICY
• United States
• Cook Islands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Accommodation Goals
• Budget And Cost Of Travel
• Foodie Goals
• Packing & Planning
• Travel Inspiration
• Volunteering Abroad
• Working & Studying Abroad
• Other Travel Tips

Quad Biking Rarotonga With Raro Quad Tours: Worth It?

All you need to know about exploring Rarotonga with Raro Quad Tours. I will be giving you all the information you need to know such as costs, what to pack, and what to expect!

Imagine yourself zooming around the mountainous inland part of Rarotonga . Through the palm tree-laden forests and splashing into mud puddles as you speed by. This was exactly the adventure I was up for so doing a quad biking tour with Raro Quad Tours would be the perfect option for me.

Rarotonga in the Cook Islands is known for its beaches , culture, amazing snorkeling, and gorgeous lagoon. Though, the mountainous middle of the island is often forgotten. Lucky for me, Raro Quad Tours explores this inland terrain of Rarotonga zooming around on quad bikes. It is the perfect way to spend the morning and experience something more adventurous.

Imagine whirling around on four-wheeled vehicles, splashing in all the muddy puddles, and speeding under the dense forest overhead. You look up and see towering cliff sides covered in vegetation. This is the true Rarotonga.

Quad Biking With Raro Quad Tours In Rarotonga

Why go quad biking in rarotonga, cost of quad biking, starting our quad biking tour, adventuring inland, mid way stop, heading to the coast, lunch at the mooring fish cafe, what to pack.

Exploring inland Rarotonga with Raro Quad Tours is a great way to explore a new part of the island that is often forgotten. It was also the perfect mixture of adventure and learning about the culture. Plus the amazing sandwich was just the cherry on top!

Enjoy this two-and-a-half-hour journey as you learn more about the culture and history of the island. 70% of the journey is off the main circular road so you really get the opportunity to see what the real Rarotonga is like for the people who live there. I was amazed at the large community living quite inland and all the houses we drove pasts.

The cost of the quad biking tour with Raro Quad Tours is $150.00 per person.

Be aware that this activity is a lot better when the weather is wet. I know having the sun shining is great, but the mud puddles will be all dried up!

Zooming off the main road in Muri Beach and into The Rarotongan Hotel we dart into reception, hiding from the rain. The friendly staff greets us with a smile while we sign in for this morning’s adventure.

In our group, there are about nine people and two guides. We are shown to the quad bikes and clamber on top. Strapping on the helmets we are given a quick tutorial on how to operate these beast machines. From switching from neutral to drive and back to reverse while holding the clutch, it’s not the easiest for someone like me who doesn’t know the first thing about driving a manual anything.

Either way, I manage to surprise myself and get it perfectly on the first go. Then. just like that, we are single file driving down the driveway in our orange and yellow safety vests towards adventure.

Down a small dirt road, the landscape becomes more rural with a tropical farm-type vibe. Houses are slowly popping up further and further apart. Life up here belongs to the few locals and their pigs, cows, and ducks, minimally ventured into by tourists like us.

They all seem to know our guide as he waves to each person we pass. He points out the many amazing views and when to change to the other side of the path to avoid overhanging coconut trees.

The famous Rarotongan icon, the needle, looms overhead, high up in the cliff sides. The dense vegetation is home to all types of birds and, as always, the many coconut trees. We splash through puddles, get covered in rain, and dodge low-hanging branches as we ride further into Rarotonga.

In the middle of the island, we hit a dead-end in the track and jump off to take in our surroundings. The forest here is dense with trees that are hundreds of years old.

A small stream lightly trickles next to us while small little prawns pop out from their rocks. James, with the help of our guide, opens up a coconut, showing off some new skills. We throw small pieces into the stream and watch the prawns take them away for their lunch.

Heading back out and into the rain, we continue through muddy puddles and back towards the coast. Down various alleys, we speed, past the locals and various farm life. We pass the same ducks and pigs we saw on the way up as we take a similar route down.

Turning off the familiar track and towards a local boy he shouts out hi as we pass and waves his hands. The roads are no longer a mixture of loose gravel and mud, having now become paved.

The ocean soon shows in the distance and we park up on a nearby side road. Jumping off we head over a viewpoint and over sharp rocks. The quiet lagoon sits peacefully on one side while the exposed ocean is a dark shade from the stormy clouds above.

A short couple-minute drive down the road we pull up at the famous Mooring Fish Cafe. It is known as having the best sandwiches on the island, and trust me there is a lot of competition, I have tried !

We chill out for a little bit, enjoying watching daily life pass us by. The neighboring fisherman bringing in their catches and the local dogs making friends with the tourists. After an obligatory photo, we jump back on the quad bikes and head back to the hotel.

There are some things it’s best to take along with you on your Raro Quad Bike Tour to make the most out of your experience:

Camera : Of course you can’t forget the camera. You will want to capture all these incredible memories! Be aware if it is raining bring a waterproof camera or a waterproof bag to store your camera in!

Covered Shoes: To keep your feet safe you will need to bring with you some covered-in shoes. Sneakers are a good option.

Sunblock: Let’s avoid looking like a lobster and bring a reef-safe sunblock along with you!

Sunglasses : It’ll definitely be worth bringing sunglasses along with you. The sun shining off the sea can be super bright so protect your eyes by bringing along a pair of sunglasses.

Where To Stay In Rarotonga

There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation in Rarotonga. From small hostels, apartments on the beach, luxury resorts, and everything in between.

Though just be aware that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. This is an island with limited resources and seems to be a few years behind New Zealand, which is again, a few years behind the rest of Oceania. As a result, rooms can look quite dated, think floral prints from the ’70s, though that’s just the atheistic on the island.

Things To Do While In Rarotonga

One great thing about Rarotonga is that is it basically impossible to get bored during your stay! There is such a wide variety of things to do and beautiful sights you will constantly be out exploring.

Also, for a more extensive list be sure to check out my post on the Best Things To Do In Rarotonga .

Beach Hop: Now you cannot go to Rarotonga and miss out on exploring the incredible ocean life and this can easily be done on a budget, if not for free. Basically, no matter where you are staying on the island the ocean is just a walk away. Do what I did and bring your own snorkel, or hire your own from a few dollars a day. Honestly, you could spend hours exploring the underwater life and corals (pro tip: the best snorkeling spot is Aroa Marine Reserve behind The Rarotongan beach resort or in front of Fruits of Rarotonga)

Aitutaki Day Tour: If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience definitely think about booking the Aitutaki Day Tour. Though it is pricey, 100% worth it. It still has some of the best beaches I have ever seen.

Cultural Show: A more tame activity is checking out one of the evening cultural shows . These are a magnificent insight into the Cook Island culture with extremely impressive performances involving dance and fire. A buffet dinner is also included with both western and local favorites.

Across Island Hike: One of the most popular things to do is do the Across Island Hike and visit The Needle. This will take you right into the interior of the mountainous island with some amazing ocean views. Raro Buggy Tours: I have always wanted to do the buggy tour as there is such hype so I booked it in on my most recent trip. I remember saying at the start to my partner that we must swap halfway so I get some fun. Though when that time came I was enjoying it so much I was happy to stay a passenger!

Swimming With Sea Turtles: No matter what your budget is swimming with sea turtles is one activity I recommend to everyone visiting Rarotonga. This experience will have you swimming alongside these majestic beauties. I did this with Ariki Adventures and cannot recommend this enough. As an alternative, they also offer a lagoon safari which I recently did. This is suitable for all ages and is safe for those who are not the most confident swimmers.

Lagoon cruise: More of a family-friendly activity is the lagoon cruise. There are a couple of companies you can book with, though we went with Koka Lagoon Cruises. It is a perfect way to get into the Cook Island spirit. With plenty of performances, snorkeling, entertainment, and a delicious lunch it is the ideal way to spend half a day.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Cook Islands inspiration? Check out….

• WHERE TO EAT IN RAROTONGA
• AITUTAKI DAY TOUR FROM RAROTONGA: DISCOVER PARADISE WITH AIR RAROTONGA
• EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF RAROTONGA WITH KOKA LAGOON CRUISES
• SWIMMING WITH TURTLES IN RAROTONGA: SEA SCOOTER SAFARI WITH ARIKI ADVENTURES
• THE ULTIMATE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE AT TE VARA NUI VILLAGE, RAROTONGA

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Backpackers Wanderlust was a guest on the Combo Extravaganza Tour with Raro Quad Tours while in The Cook Islands, however, as always, all opinions are my own.

Related Posts

Where To Eat In Rarotonga: Top Restaurants You NEED To Try

Find out where to eat in Rarotonga for delicious food and delightful drinks. Learn about [...]

16 Comments

Punanga Nui Market: The Perfect Saturday Morning In Rarotonga

Find out everything you need to know about visiting the Punanga Nui Market in Rarotonga. [...]

Te Vara Nui: The Best Cultural Show In Rarotonga

Find out all you need to know about seeing a cultural show in Rarotonga with [...]

47 Comments

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Raro Quad Tours

• Video Gallery
• Currency Converter
• Culture & History
• Arts & Crafts
• Getting around
• General Info
• Hotels & Activities
• Cook Islands to Hawai'i
• Our Holiday Packages
• Aitutaki By Private Jet
• Cook Islands to Tahiti
• Close Encounter Packages
• Hawaii to Cook Islands Holiday Packages
• Discover Aitutaki Package
• Discover Cook Islands
• Niue Packages
• Small Group Series
• Southern Group Adventure Package
• Sydney to Cook Islands Packages
• The Trailblazers of the Northern Atolls
• Direct Honolulu-Rarotonga Flight Announced
• Direct Sydney - Rarotonga Flight Announced
• Client feedback

I'm looking for:

Your cook islands wholesale specialist, raro quad tours.

• Image Gallery

Amenities & Facilities

Coconut Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Coconut Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Raro Quad Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Raro Quad Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• facebook-official
• pinterest-circled
• youtube-play

10 Best Tours of Rarotonga 🍍 [2024]

Explore rarotonga’s land and lagoon with the best tours of rarotonga.

Don’t be that guy that just rents a car, sticks to the coastal road and misses all the highlights of Rarotonga without realising it. Get a local to show you the hidden gems, best snorkelling spots, places to eat, historical sites and more on a tour of Rarotonga. Minibuses, safari Jeeps, electric tuk-tuks and glass-bottom boats have all been kitted out to show you around the island on tours ranging from two hours to a half-day – you’ll be back well on time for happy hour ! So check out some of the best lagoon and island tours, right here, in our list of the best tours of Rarotonga.

1. Tik-ebikes & Tours

Hop on one of the most unique vehicles to tour around Rarotonga with Tik-ebikes & Tours ! Their “ Island Tour ” takes you around Rarotonga in an environmentally-friendly tuk-tuk where you’ll stop by historical sites, such as the Tinomana Palace , stunning landscapes like the Mairie Nui Gardens and along the soft sands of Muri Beach . You’ll get an insight into the history and culture of the island with an interesting stop at the Rito Organic Coconut Oil Factory and get some time to experience the local arts and shops of Avarua before you’re transported back to your accommodation.

Tours last approximately three hours and depart at 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

2. Cook Islands Tours

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 2h30mins 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 .

Find out more about Cook Islands Tours, check out reviews and book tours on Viator and Tripadvisor . 

3. Koka Lagoon Cruises

For some fun on the water, take a tour with Koka Lagoon Cruises . The half-day cruise from Muri Beach includes snorkelling at the  Tikioki Marine Reserve where you’ll be free to swim among the giant clams, angelfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish and much more. After snorkelling, the cruise on the glass-bottom boat crosses the Muri Lagoon to the uninhabited Motu Koromiri for a barbecue lunch combined with a fun yet informative coconut and sarong-tying show. The ukulele band entertains throughout the experience.

Check out reviews and book your tour with Koka Lagoon Cruises on Viator  or  Tripadvisor . Plus, see how the cruise compares to the 10 Best Day Cruises in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands .

4. Raro Tours

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 (an ancient gathering place), visiting local industries like a perfumes factory and tasting locally-made liqueurs. You’ll also stop for a coconut husking demonstration to learn more about the “Tree of Life”.

Tours start at 10am, include transfers and operate Monday to Friday. Book tickets and read reviews on Viator or Tripadvisor . 

5. Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours

An alternative way to tour Rarotonga is via bike with Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours . They have bikes for all ages, so there’s no excuse not to join them on their “ Discover ” tour suited to beginner cyclists or their “ Explore ” tour for the more experienced. Cycle past quaint villages, learn about the history along the old Ara Metua coral road, and stop for tastings of local fruit discovered along the way. Whichever of the two tours you choose, your experience with conclude with a delicious local lunch.

Transfers are included in this tour and morning departure times are organised with the operator. Depending on what tour you choose, they are available from Monday to Friday. Learn more about Storytellers on Viator and Tripadvisor .

6. Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruizes

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 . The main differences are that the cruise departs a little later (11am instead of 10am 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.

Learn more about the cruise and check out reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor . Plus, see more tours with amazing snorkelling in the 6 Best Snorkelling Tours in Rarotonga .

7. Raro Safari Tours

Jump in a characterful safari Jeep and hit the coast road, back roads and dirt roads with Raro Safari Tours . This three-hour tour incorporates history and culture as you traverse the inland road seeking out historical sites, visiting plantations and – 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 ), a buffet lunch and lots of humour!

Raro Safari Tours has a morning and afternoon departure most days, otherwise, they will just operate their morning tour from 9.30am.

8. Raro Buggy Tours and Raro Quad Tours

Do the driving yourself on an exciting off-roading tour with Raro Buggy Tours or Raro Quad Tours . The main difference is that one tour is in two-seater 4×4 buggies lasting 1h30mins to 2 hours and the other is on quad bikes lasting from 2h30mins to 3 hours. Either way, you’ll start off getting accustomed to your vehicle and following your guide to historical sites before hitting the muddy tracks and plantations on your way to the Papua Waterfall ( Wigmore’s Waterfall ).

Tours depart from Wigmore’s Superstore ( Vaimaanga ) at 8.30am and 11.30am for buggy tours/12.30pm for quad tours, Monday to Friday and only in the morning on Saturdays. This is an epic tour for couples, as listed in the 16 Most Romantic Things to Do on Rarotonga .

9. Raro Reef Sub

A water tour with a difference, cruise to the deep outer reef with Raro Reef Sub . Look out for large pelagic fish, turtles, sharks and even whales in this semi-submersible vessel. The 1h25mins-1h30mins tour takes you around the RMS Maitai shipwreck and to places that are otherwise a challenge to get to. If that wasn’t enough, a percentage of the trip goes toward local conservation!

Tours last approximately 1h15mins to 1h30mins and depart from the Avatiu Harbour ( Avarua ), Sunday to Friday, three to four times a day if the weather allows. This is also a spectacular option with kids, as listed in the 30 Things to Do on Rarotonga with Kids .

10. Aitutaki Day Tour

There’s much more to the Cook Islands than Rarotonga, so we fully encourage you to discover the other islands for yourself and see just how different they are! If you don’t have time to stay on another island, however, then you need the Aitutaki Day Tour . Operated by  Air Rarotonga , the day tour to Aitutaki is a complete island package from Rarotonga including return flights, a six-hour lagoon cruise with The Vaka Cruise (see below), a barbecue lunch on the boat and transfers both on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. It couldn’t be easier!

Tours operate Monday to Saturday and the flight departs at 8am.

More About the Best Tours on Rarotonga

Now that you know some of the best tours on Rarotonga, discover more guided experiences in the following lists:

• 10 Best Eco Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands
• 6 Best Snorkelling Tours in Rarotonga
• 10 Best Tours in the Cook Islands

Finally, don’t miss a thing from your bucket list by using the 50 Best Things to Do on Rarotonga and 101 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands: The Ultimate List .

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Cook Islands Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as the Cook Islands. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Raro’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

Was this article useful?

Related posts, 10 best tours in the cook islands [2024], 10 best tours of aitutaki 🏝️ [2024], 5 best tours on atiu, 10 best sightseeing tours in rarotonga & the cook islands [2024], recommended for you, accommodation, destinations, things to do, connect with us.

To contact us directly, use our contact page.

Travel Tips

Welcome/Kia Orana By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links.

Connect with us

Welcome/Kia Orana By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and the terms of use within it.

© 2024 Cook Islands Pocket Guide. Contact – Disclaimer

Raro Buggy Tours

Using Trip Favourites allows you to save activities, accommodation or destinations so you can easily view them later.

Look for the Add to Favourites button on activity pages.

• Outer Islands
• Car & Bike Rentals
• Health & Beauty
• Shopping & Markets
• Tours & Touring
• Real Estate Services
• Internet & WiFi
• Bars & Nightlife
• Restaurants
• Bottle Shops
• Home Dining Tour
• Accommodation Reviews
• Restaurant Reviews
• Cook Islands Sun Publications

See & Do

The main road is just 32km around the island but there is much to discover on Rarotonga. To help you get your bearings, here are ...

"Employed to look after thirty Rarotongan Flycatchers." Birdman George, aka George Mateariki, is employed by the Takitumu Conservation Area to look after thirty Rarotongan Flycatchers ...

"The highlight of Aitutaki is her lagoon" A visit to Aitutaki is not complete without a cruise on the world-famous lagoon. Enjoy watching the marine ...

"Personalised charters" Your hosts on Black Pearl Charters, Mike and Mere, are a friendly husband and wife team. Mike is half Aitutakian, and Mere, part ...

"An Awesome Day!" 'Cruise and Snorkel' Muri Lagoon aboard Captain Tama's famous glass bottom boats. Includes snorkelling amongst giant clams and reef fish, a fresh-fish ...

"Experience the real Cook Islands" Cook Islands Tours specialise in organising individual and group itineraries for Rarotonga and the outer islands, booking the entire trip ...

Discover With UsLearn about the creatures that inhabit the Cook Islands, on land. and in the lagoons and ocean.Closed during COVID pandemic. Re-opens 13 January ...

"One unforgettable day" Air Rarotonga's Aitutaki Day Tour operates daily Mondays to Saturdays from Rarotonga, departing at 8.00am and returning by 5.30 pm. Included in ...

Tips and insights from Nick Henry, the General Manager of Aitutaki's popular Tamanu Beach Resort.Best places to watch the sunriseFor those who are keen to ...

"A glass bottom lagoon cruise like no other!"Based on Muri Beach, Koka Lagoon Cruises operate Sunday to Friday departing at 10am.The cruise features snorkelling (gear ...

We are dedicated to delivering the best possible experience on the beautiful waters of Aitutaki.Contactable anytime for pricing and availabilityT: 54536E: [email protected]: pcaitutaki.com ...

"Enjoy a drive yourself, guided buggy tour"Off the beaten track! Rarotonga's adventure tour departs 8.30am & 11.30am Monday – Friday & 8.30am on Saturday only ...

"Rain or shine, get the thrill of your life touring Rarotonga in a four-wheel Yamaha quad." Raro Quad Tours take in rural, valley and mountain ...

"Spectacular aerial vistas" Enjoy thirty minutes flying over Rarotonga with Air Rarotonga sightseeing in a high-wing Cessna, with onboard commentary. View the inland valleys and ...

"A unique way to experience the authentic Rarotonga." Storytellers are tour guides who offer a variety of cycling and walking experiences in Rarotonga to suit ...

"Spectacular Over-Water Night Show" Set in botanical rock waterfall gardens, and inspired by Vara Hunter, who in her younger years famously performed and showcased Cook ...

In early 2016, Tik-eTours opened their doors with six colourful and fun electric Tuk Tuk limousines offering a wide range of transportation services that include ...

Keep in touch with our latest stories

Destinations, eat & drink, news & reviews.

• Getting here
• Getting around
• Climate & Weather

Connect with us

© Cook Islands Sun 2024. All rights reserved.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy & Cookies

Raro Buggy Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

RARO BUGGY TOURS (Muri) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Rarotonga activities and outdoor adventures

Beaches and lagoons might be the biggest reasons to visit Rarotonga, but if you turn 180 degrees away from the shore you'll see a verdant hinterland that's just begging to be explored. Reaching to 4,500 meters above sea level, this island has a lot of special places for you to discover on foot, by hiring some kind of vehicle or by joining a small group tour.

The road that circles the island of Rarotonga makes a glorious day trip and renting a car is straightforward, because your New Zealand driver's licence works here.

Scooter hire, buggy tours and quad bike tours

The green hinterland of Rarotonga is laced with dirt roads that are just perfect for exploring in a 4WD buggy. Dressed in clothes that don't mind a bit of mud and armed with mozzie repellent, you'll roar around the backroads having the time of your life. Raro Buggy Tours offer a self-drive buggy adventure that begins at Wigmore's Store in Vaimaanga. At less than NZD $200 for two people, it's great value for money.

Another option for exploring inner Raro is a quad bike tour. You'll be in charge of your own vehicle, but there's a guide to follow as you roam jungle roads to find huge views, waterfalls and swimming holes. There's a choice of quad tour operators on the island, so check the reviews before you book.

Getting around Rarotonga on a scooter is an adventure in itself. The road that traces the perimeter of the island is easy to navigate - you literally can't get lost. And if you stray off the main route and get a little confused in the back roads, helpful locals will soon point you in the right direction. Scooter hire places can be found in Avarua (the main town), Muri and Arorangi. You need to get a Cook Islands visitor motorcycle license to ride a scooter.

Walks and hiking in Rarotonga

Tropical hiking gives you a different view of paradise, so pack some sturdy boots or shoes. Once you've discovered the joys of trekking through Rarotonga's hinterland, there'll be no stopping you. Here are some trails to enjoy:

• The Cross-Island Track is the most popular walk on Rarotonga, but it's far from crowded. The four-hour hike includes the 413m Te Rua Manga (Needle). North to south is the recommended direction, because there's less chance of a wrong turn
• The Takitumu Conservation Area trail starts on the eastern side of the Queen's Representative's official residence in Titikaveka. One of Raro's best natural attractions, the trail takes you into the cloud forest for glimpses of the Kakerori (Rarotongan Flycatcher bird). The small entry fee assists species protection
• Takuvaine Valley Trail, which starts as a drivable road, lets you see where the people of Rarotonga used to live before European settlers arrived
• Avana Valley Track heads inland from Avana Harbour. It starts at Avana Road next to Manavaroa homestead. The path crosses several tributaries of the Avana Stream, so you can have a freshwater dip if it gets too hot
• Maungatea Bluff Track delivers some of the best high-altitude views on the island. To find the track, follow the road on the right of Tauae Store until it runs out and the walking trail begins

Bike tours and self-guided biking

Cycling on Rarotonga is both a form of transport and something fun to do. You can hire bikes from various places around the island, then pedal forth to find beaches, snorkelling spots, cafés and shops. Biking to Punanga Nui Market on a Saturday saves the hunt for a carpark at the island's most popular weekly event. Visiting the market is one of the best activities to do in Rarotonga, so make it a priority.

Another way to enjoy yourself on self-propelled wheels is a guided ride with Storytellers Eco Cycle Tours. They offer a range of experiences, from basic lunch-and-swim options to exciting five-hour rides that involve mountain bikes and stream crossings. The theme with all their tours is storytelling - you'll hear local legends, pick up interesting facts and figures, and generally learn about life on an idyllic island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. This operator also gives 10% of their profits back to the community, so your fun experience is making a difference to the locals.

A driving tour of the island

The road that circles the island of Rarotonga makes a glorious day trip and renting a car is straightforward, because your New Zealand driver's license works here. Points of interest around the island (clockwise) include:

• About 1km past the Kii Kii Motel is a dirt road leading to Marae Arai-Te-Tonga, one of the most sacred places on the island. Before Europeans arrived, the investiture of high chiefs happened here
• Matavera village has a beautiful church and graveyard
• Oral history says that a fleet of migration canoes left Ngatangiia village around 1350AD bound for New Zealand. Their departure point was across the road from the church that stands in the centre of the village
• Offshore from Ngatangiia you'll see three small islands. An old stone fish trapis visible underwater between the beach and the islands. Traps like these were designed to catch fish on an outgoing tide
• Stop at gorgeous Muri Beach for lunch at a café, food truck or restaurant
• Fruits of Raro is famous for off-the-beach snorkelling and delicious fresh juices, smoothies and fruit preserves at the country store of the same name
• Titikaveka has a wonderful church that was built in 1841 of coral blocks hand-cut from the reef
• Above Titikaveka village is the Takitumu Conservation area, home of the endangered kakerori, a sparrow-size yellowish bird that's unique to Rarotonga
• Arorangi is a community founded by the missionary Aaron Buzacott in 1828. Tahitian missionary Papeiha, who worked in Arorangi, is buried in the yard of the 1849 village church
• Offshore from Arorangi is Black Rock, a volcanic outcrop. According to legend, the souls of the dead say farewell to Rarotonga from here before journeying back to Avaiki (Hawaiki)
• On the way back to Avarua, look for the Cook Islands Parliament building. Parliament meets from February to March and from July to September. Visitors are welcome to observe from the gallery

Keep exploring Rarotonga