Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Cook Islands
With 15 regions, the Cook Islands present countless opportunities to explore cave pools, seasides and Polynesian culture.
The Cook Islands are also the second largest pearl farming producer in the world. Manihiki is the main location for the territory’s many local family-run pearl farms. The island is made up of 40 small coral inlets which encircle a tremendous blue lagoon.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the Cook Islands?
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to the Cook Islands?
What is the Climate Like in the Cook Islands?
How Safe are the Cook Islands?
Take a Dip in Mitiaro’s Underground Cave Pools
What Should I Pack for the Cook Islands?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Cook Islands
Do I Need Vaccines for the Cook Islands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the Cook Islands. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Cook Islands: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for all travellers - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for the Cook Islands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for all travellers |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Dengue is present on the islands. Ensure to bring repellents and mosquito netting.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to the Cook Islands?
No visa is required for stays under 6 months in the Cook Islands. Passports must have at least one month of remaining validity upon entry, though six months is recommended. A visa may be required for business travel as strict work rules apply.
Cook Islands Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to the Cook Islands? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of the Cook Islands and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands have a tropical climate with high, stable temperatures year round.
The territory has a rainy season with afternoon storms from December to March and a dry season from April to November. The wet season is also hurricane season.
There is little temperature difference between the seasons. The average temperature is in the low 20’s Celsius, whilst the average low is in the high-10’s.
February is typically the warmest month for the Cook Islands whilst August is the coolest. January is the wettest month whilst July is the driest.
How Safe are the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands are a very safe travel destination.
Swimming in sheltered lagoons is fine but reef passages can have very strong currents to be avoided.
The Cook Islands’ major island, Rarotonga, has major reef passages at Avana Harbour, Avaavaroa, Papua, and Rutaki. The other islands have reef passages as well, typically on opposite streams.
Be wary of insect bites as they can lead to dengue fever.
Take a Dip in Mitiaro’s Underground Cave Pools
Mitiaro is one of the 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands. But, it is peculiar in that it is known for its underground cave pools.
The heart of the island it is very flat and swampy. It has two freshwater lakes, Rotunui and Rotoiti, which are filled with eels and tilapia.
One of the most popular island spots is the underground cavern Vai Nouri. The cavern is said to have healing powers and possess water that is strikingly deep and clear. Travellers and locals alike can go to many points along the coast to discover and enjoy countless small coves with ample opportunities to take a dip in the tranquil waters. see the reef, explore the caves, relax on the seasides, and enjoy sights few get to see.
Tourists can get a wonderful cultural experience by staying with welcoming locals. Because the island is rarely visited, travellers can expect a quiet and beautiful experience.
What Should I Pack for the Cook Islands?
Think ahead on what to pack by perusing these suggestions:
- Appropriate Clothing – The Cook Islands can often be hot and humid. Be sure to pack accordingly for the time of year and the activities you wish to do. Consider items such as sun cream, water-protective gear, and bathing suits.
- Health Kit – Be sure to have important first aid kit items whilst travelling. Consider using a pre-made first aid kit for your trip.
- Insect Repellent – With the possibility of dengue fever in the Cook Islands it is especially important to ward against mosquito bites.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Cook Islands
If you are in the Cook Islands and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
While there is no consulate or embassy in the Cook Islands, it is served by the British embassy in New Zealand:
British High Commission New Zealand
44 Hill Street
Thorndon
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Telephone: +64 (0) 4 924 2888
Fax: +64 (0) 4 473 4982
Contact Form: Click Here
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