Everything you need to know before you arrive – from what to pack and when to visit, to staying connected and accessing your money while you’re here.

Climate

The Cook Islands enjoy year-round warmth, making them an ideal destination at any time. Temperatures vary only slightly, ranging between 22°C and 29°C throughout the year. The drier winter months run from April to November, while the warmer, more humid season coincides with summer from December to March – when occasional tropical showers can be expected.

June, July and August are the coolest and most comfortable months. Being in the tropics, weather can be wonderfully unpredictable throughout the day – but the locals will tell you that when it rains on one side of the island, it’s usually sunny on the other!

Humidity can be quite high, so pack lightweight cotton and natural fibres rather than synthetics. T-shirts, shorts and sleeveless dresses are ideal – and don’t forget a sunhat, sunglasses and plenty of sunblock.

Communication

International phone, mobile data and wireless internet services in the Cook Islands are provided by Vodafone Cook Islands. Coverage is reliable across Rarotonga and available on most of the populated outer islands.

For travellers looking to stay connected from the moment they land, Vodafone Cook Islands offers an eSIM service – a convenient option that allows you to add a local data plan to your compatible device before you even leave home. No physical SIM swap required; simply activate online and arrive connected.

Banking and Money

ANZ, BSP and BCI banks are all located in the central Avarua shopping district on Rarotonga. Standard banking hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm. ANZ extends its hours on Fridays until 4pm, and BSP is also open Saturday mornings from 9am to 12pm.

ATMs are available outside the banks and at various points around Rarotonga, including the International Airport. EFTPOS is widely accepted at most stores, restaurants, bars, hotels and resorts across the island.