How long should I plan to stay on Aitutaki vs. Rarotonga?
Both islands have something to offer and are worth the visit. Rarotonga gets the majority of visitors because of years of heavy marketing combined with the convenience of an international airport. Aitutaki is really one of those best kept secrets. Time and time again, visitors to the Cook Islands spend the bulk of their time on Rarotonga only to arrive on Aitutaki for a few days and realize they should have done it the other way around. You wont find the selection of restaurants and shops here, and the pace is decidedly slow even by Cook Island standards, but the Aitutaki lagoon is listed as one of the hundred places to see before you die for good reason! If you need to have lots of amenities and entertainment, then you will be happier on Rarotonga. But if youre looking for real relaxation in one of the most stunningly gorgeous locations on the planet, then, no question, Aitutaki is where you want to be!
