Home › Destinations › Mitiaro
Mitiaro, Kūki ʻĀirani - Things to Do in Mitiaro

Things to Do in Mitiaro

Mitiaro, Kūki ʻĀirani - Complete Travel Guide

Mitiaro is one of the outer islands of the Cook Islands, located in the southern group about 270 kilometers northeast of Rarotonga. This small coral atoll is home to fewer than 200 residents and offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Polynesian island life. The island is renowned for its unique freshwater pools called 'vai', which are rare natural phenomena formed by underground springs mixing with seawater in limestone caves.

Top Things to Do in Mitiaro

Swimming in the Vai (Freshwater Pools)

Explore Mitiaro's famous freshwater pools, including Vai Nauri and Vai Marere, which are natural swimming holes formed by underground springs. These crystal-clear pools offer a refreshing swim and are considered sacred by locals. The pools are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and provide excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation.

Booking Tip: Access is typically arranged through local guides for around NZ$20-30 per person. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Always ask permission from local landowners and respect cultural protocols.

Traditional Village Walking Tour

Take a guided walk through Mitiaro's main village to learn about local customs, traditional architecture, and daily island life. Visit the local church, community centers, and traditional homes while hearing stories about the island's history and culture. This intimate experience offers insights into how outer island communities maintain their traditional way of life.

Booking Tip: Arrange through your accommodation or local contacts for NZ$15-25 per person. Best done in the morning when villagers are active. Tours are informal and flexible, often including visits to local homes for traditional refreshments.

Makatea (Raised Coral) Exploration

Discover Mitiaro's unique raised coral limestone formations that circle the interior of the island. These ancient coral cliffs, known as makatea, create dramatic landscapes with caves, crevices, and unique rock formations. The area is rich in endemic plants and offers excellent hiking opportunities for those interested in geology and botany.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is possible, but a local guide (NZ$30-40) is recommended for safety and cultural insights. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Best explored during cooler parts of the day due to limited shade.

Traditional Fishing Experience

Join local fishermen for traditional fishing methods including lagoon fishing and reef gleaning. Learn about sustainable fishing practices that have been passed down through generations while trying to catch dinner. This hands-on cultural experience often includes preparation and cooking of the catch using traditional methods.

Booking Tip: Arrange directly with local families through your accommodation for NZ$40-60 per person including meal. Best done during low tide periods. Bring sun protection and be prepared to get wet. Experience varies with weather and tidal conditions.

Bird Watching and Nature Photography

Mitiaro's diverse ecosystems support various bird species including native and migratory birds. The island's interior swamps, coastal areas, and makatea provide different habitats for bird watching. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best opportunities to spot and photograph local wildlife in their natural environment.

Booking Tip: Self-guided activity requiring no booking fees. Bring binoculars and camera with telephoto lens. Local guides available for NZ$25-35 if you want expert knowledge of bird behavior and best spotting locations. Peak activity is dawn and dusk.

Getting There

Mitiaro is accessible only by air via Air Rarotonga, which operates flights from Rarotonga approximately 2-3 times per week depending on the season. The flight takes about 45 minutes and costs around NZ$300-400 return. Flights are subject to weather conditions and demand, so booking in advance is essential. There is no regular ferry service to Mitiaro, making air travel the only reliable option for visitors. The small airstrip can accommodate only small aircraft, and luggage restrictions may apply.

Getting Around

Transportation on Mitiaro is primarily on foot or by bicycle, as the island is small enough to walk across in about 30 minutes. Some locals have motorbikes or small trucks that may be available for hire or rides around the island. Most accommodations can arrange transportation from the airstrip, which is usually just a short walk or ride to anywhere on the island. The main road circles the island and is suitable for walking or cycling, though bicycles may need to be arranged in advance through your accommodation or local contacts.

Where to Stay

Mitiaro Village Center
Near Vai Nauri Pool
Coastal Areas
Traditional Family Homestays
Near the Airstrip
Makatea Edge Locations

Food & Dining

Dining options on Mitiaro are extremely limited due to its small population and remote location. Most visitors stay with local families who provide traditional home-cooked meals featuring fresh fish, tropical fruits, root vegetables, and coconut-based dishes. There are no restaurants or cafes in the conventional sense. Meals are typically arranged as part of accommodation packages or through community connections. Visitors should expect simple, authentic Polynesian cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients. It's advisable to discuss dietary requirements in advance, and bringing some non-perishable snacks is recommended for those with specific dietary needs.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Cook Islands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Charlie's Raro

4.5 /5
(811 reviews)
bar

Tamarind House Restaurant & Ukulele Bar

4.6 /5
(461 reviews)
bar

Avatea cafe

4.9 /5
(336 reviews)
cafe

Pacific Resort Aitutaki

4.9 /5
(308 reviews)
bar lodging

The Waterline Restaurant and Outrigger Beach Bar

4.5 /5
(297 reviews)

Takitumu Tapas

5.0 /5
(191 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mitiaro is during the dry season from May to October when rainfall is lower and temperatures are more comfortable, ranging from 20-26°C. This period offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities and clearer skies for photography. The wet season from November to April brings higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional tropical storms, though it's also when the island is most lush and green. Flight schedules may be more reliable during the dry season, which is crucial given the limited transportation options. Consider that this is also peak season, so booking flights and accommodation well in advance is essential.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in New Zealand dollars as there are no ATMs or banks on the island, and card payments are not accepted
Pack insect repellent and basic medical supplies as there are no pharmacies or medical facilities on the island
Respect local customs by asking permission before photographing people or entering private property, and always greet locals with a friendly 'Kia Orana'

Explore Activities in Mitiaro