Tag: Cook Islands

Where is the World Are We?

We are in Aitutaki, Cook Islands, in the South Pacific.

AITUTAKI, COOK ISLANDS
The Island That Captivates the World
When the Lonely Planet co-founder describes somewhere as ‘the world’s most beautiful island’, you can be sure that you are in for a treat. Incredible, inspiring, unbelievable, idyllic, and unimaginable, there are simply not enough superlatives to describe how amazing Aitutaki is.

Brought to light in 1779 by Captain Bligh, the Mutiny on the Bounty meant that Aitutaki had somewhat of a bloodthirsty history.

While European missionaries eventually settled on the island in the 19th century (as evidenced by the white, coral-encrusted walls of many churches), the island’s Polynesian history dates to around 900 A.D. Traditional songs and dances from this period still exist (though Christian hymns, known as imene metu, are also popular) and are performed by islanders with gusto and great pride.

The island is part of the Cook Islands, one of the most secluded and romantic archipelagos in the world. With its powder-white sand, warm turquoise waters, and sense of casual luxury, it is easy to see why the island has earned itself the moniker “honeymooner’s island”.

However, there is much more to Aitutaki than just fun in the sun. With a reef that completely encompasses a large turquoise lagoon, Aitutaki is considered one of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations in the world.

Tropical excitement is heightened when, entering the main village via Zodiac along a narrow channel, travelers are greeted by a traditional warrior challenge.

Today’s Excursion – Circle Island Tour

We explored the churches, maraes, local villages, Ootu Bay, Aitutaki Lagoon, and other beautiful and historic sites during this scenic sightseeing excursion.

Aitutaki, Nikaupara, CICC Church, Reureu Village, Vainamu Well

We departed the pier for the short drive south towards Nikaupara, past the CICC Church, one of the first churches on this island, built by the missionaries. This old limestone church is over 100 years old and lavishly decorated. During a brief stop here, you can take photos inside the building. Leaving the church, re-board your coach for a drive past the village of Reureu and onto the coastal road leading to the Vainamu District. Your narrated drive continues past the freshwater well of Vainamu, where the old people used to wash their clothes and bathe in the early days of the island. This also doubled as a social meeting-place; the men used to search for their brides here, too.

Limestone Churches, Tautu Wharf, Aitutaki Lagoon, Inland Villages, Are Karioi, Copra Plantations

Next, our sightseeing drive passes limestone churches on the way to Tautu. After a photo stop at the old Tautu Wharf for a beautiful view of the Aitutaki Lagoon, head to the village of Vaipae through its entrance, where a huge banyan tree grows over the road, forming an alcove. From here, proceed to a stop at the ancient ceremonial marae of Are Karioi before reaching the inland village of Tautu. Your route continues along the coastal road in the Vaipeka District, past the old Copra Plantations and the island’s only quarry, where volcanic rock is quarried for road maintenance and building.

Ootu Bay, Photo and Refreshment Stop, Aitutaki Village Hotel, Amuri Village

Drive on towards Ootu Bay, where the ancient warrior chief, Ru, first landed on Aitutaki approximately 900 years ago. This scenic viewpoint offers beautiful panoramic views of the island, and those wanting to buy refreshments can do so from the beach restaurant at the Aitutaki Village Hotel. Following a photo and refreshment stop here, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier via Amuri Village.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant