You can travel comfortably in the Cooks, staying at the top-end lodges and eating at the best restaurants, for US$250.00 to US$300.00 a day or more, depending on whether you hit more than two or three islands or stock up on tivaevae quilts. Moderate travel will run closer to US$110.00 to US$150.00 a day, though you can get by for less if you pick your accommodation with care and do a little self-catering. Budget travellers can squeak by for well under US$50.00 a day if they stick to inexpensive accommodation and restaurants.

You get a better rate for travellers' cheques than for cash. There aren't many place you can change travellers' cheques or change cash - Avarua, Aitutaki and a few hotels. You're better off changing all your money on Rarotonga rather than hoping to do it on the outer islands.

There's a value added tax of 12.5%. Tipping isn't a custom in the islands, and haggling over prices is considered extremely rude.

Back to top ^

Shop Online

Advertisement

Book Your Trip

Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.

Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Popular Places

  1. Rarotonga

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet