🇨🇰Cook Islands
Oceania· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
Avarua
Population
13,236
Currency
New Zealand dollar (NZD $)
Languages
Anglais, Maori des Îles Cook
Continent
Oceania
Calling code
+682
Timezone
Pacific/Rarotonga
Area
240 km²
Government
Parliamentary monarchy (State in free association with New Zealand)
National day
4 August - Self-Government Day
Internet domain
.ck
About
The Cook Islands are a self-governing island country in free association with New Zealand, located in Polynesia. Comprising 15 islands, they are renowned for their natural beauty, Maori culture, and tourism-driven economy. The population is declining due to emigration.
Safety
Risk areas
Crime(Low)
- Avoid leaving valuables in sight
- Be cautious at night in Rarotonga
Terrorism(Low)
- Negligible risk, no known threat
Transport
- Use official taxis
- Check insurance for car rentals
Natural risks(Seasonal cyclones (Nov-Mar), earthquakes)
- Follow weather alerts
- Avoid coastal areas during storms
Health(Limited healthcare system, evacuation possible to NZ)
- Hepatitis A/B vaccines, typhoid recommended
- Comprehensive travel insurance mandatory
Practical tips
- Register with your embassy
- Protect against mosquitoes (dengue)
- Respect local customs
Cost of living
Accommodation
Food
Transport
Leisure
Health
Others
Indicative prices in USD · as of 11/06/2025
Practical information
Electricity
Emergency numbers
Practical information
Left
unsafe
Not mandatory, 5-10% appreciated
Visas
Plan your trip
Tours and activities
Book excursions ahead, with free cancellation.
Travel insurance
Medical cover and repatriation, can be taken out mid-trip.
eSIM data
Stay connected on landing, with no roaming charges.
Partner links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Guides to prepare your trip
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Cook Islands?▾
It depends on your nationality: some passports enter visa-free, others need an e-visa or a consular visa. Select your nationality in our checker to get the exact rule for your passport, with documents, fees and processing times.
Check by my nationality→Is it dangerous to travel to Cook Islands?▾
The overall risk level is currently rated "Overall low risk level, safe for tourists.". See the Safety section on this page for details by topic (crime, transport, health, areas to avoid) and practical tips.
What currency is used in Cook Islands?▾
The official currency is New Zealand dollar (NZD $). See sample prices (accommodation, meals, transport) in the cost of living section above.
What is the capital of Cook Islands?▾
The capital of Cook Islands is Avarua. The main spoken languages are: Anglais, Maori des Îles Cook.