A hiker’s paradise, Rarotonga offers a diverse range of trails, from the legendary Cross-Island Trek to more hidden gems. But if you’re looking for a rewarding hike that provides a thrilling challenge without demanding an entire day, the Raemaru Track is a must-do.
Perched on the west side of the island, Raemaru is known for its distinctive flat-topped peak and breathtaking panoramic views. Legends of the Cook Islands say that Raemaru’s top was stolen and taken to Aitutaki…
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to conquer Raemaru and earn those spectacular vistas.
Raemaru at a Glance
- Distance: Approximately 3.1 km (1.9 miles) return trip.
- Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and time spent at the summit.
- Elevation: 350 meters above sea level.
- Difficulty: Intermediate. The trail is well-marked but features a steep, strenuous rock climb at the end.
- Toilets: There are no toilets on the track
- Mobile coverage: There is mobile reception most of the way and a strong signal along the ridgeline
- Cost: Free for a self-guided hike. Guided tours are also available.
- Main Township: Arorangi
- Location: The track starts at the end of Raemaru Heights Road.
The Legend of Raemaru
As you stand on the summit, you’re also standing in a place of great cultural significance. According to local legend, Raemaru wasn’t always flat-topped. It was once the tallest mountain on Rarotonga and used to be called Maru.
Its peak was stolen by a group of warriors from the neighbouring island of Aitutaki, who intended to take it back to their own island. Aitutaki was completely flat then. So, at night they sent some warriors to steal the mountain of Raemaru for their own island.
The Aitutakian warriors came to Rarotonga and cut the top off the mountain to take it back to Aitutaki.
After four days of hard work, they reached Aitutaki. Tiring in their last efforts, pieces of the mountain fell off as they lay Maru in the village of Amuri. At last, Aitutaki had a mountain. But the lost parts had reduced its size tremendously into a hill. The Aitutakians renamed the hill, Maunga Pu, meaning top of the mountain, in remembrance of their achievement.
An interesting legend to ponder while you walk!
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Getting to the Trailhead
The Raemaru Track is located in the Arorangi district, on the west side of Rarotonga. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find, so pay close attention to these directions.
From the main road (Ara Tapu), look for the Akaoa Road or Akaoa No. 2 Road, near the Friendly Mart Convenience Store, situated between the Castaway Resort and the Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre.
From there, take the inland road and follow the yellow ‘Raemaru Trek’ road signs. This will lead you to Raemaru Heights Road.
Follow this road all the way to the end, where you’ll find a grassy clearing that serves as a small car park. If you’re using a rental car or scooter, remember to park it out of the way of residents.
- Read about renting a car in Rarotonga or getting your scooter license.
What to Pack and What to Wear
Rarotonga’s tropical climate means humidity is a constant companion on any hike. Proper preparation is key to a comfortable and safe journey.
- Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are non-negotiable. The trail can be very slippery, especially after rain, with sections of tree roots and rocks. Hiking boots or good quality sneakers are ideal.
- Water: Bring at least 1.5-2 litres of water per person. You’ll be sweating a lot, and dehydration can set in quickly.
- Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is your best bet. While shorts are common, some hikers recommend long pants or socks to protect against scratchy ferns and insects. A hat and sunglasses are also a good idea.
- Safety: Always inform someone of your hiking plans and your estimated return time. Consider carrying a small first-aid kit with Band-Aids.
- Insect Repellent: Do take insect repellent.
- Extras: A small backpack for your water and snacks, and a camera to capture the views. There are also QR codes along the trail that you can scan to learn about local legends and ecology, so have your phone ready!
The Raemaru Experience: A Step-by-Step Guide
The hike begins with a gentle ascent, winding through a lush jungle canopy. The trail is well-defined and marked with orange triangles. But keep an eye out for them as the foliage can be dense.
You’ll navigate over gnarled tree roots and through thick vegetation. The sounds of the jungle and the fresh, earthy smell of the rainforest are a constant companion.
The Track Starting Point
The trailhead itself is quite difficult to find. (Note: even though now signposted).
Once parked and walking you need to take a right turn off the larger road-size farm track to enter the start of the Raemaru Trek.
Look out for the new signs signalling the start of the track. Turn right here – at the signs. The right-turn arrow is not obvious, but this is beginning of the track.
If you are walking for more than 10 minutes and have not started ascending through a thick forest you have missed the track!
From the Raemaru Ridge
About halfway through the hike, the trail becomes more challenging. The path gets steeper, and you’ll start to get glimpses of the magnificent views to come. The effort is well worth it, as you’ll eventually emerge onto a ridge.
This section offers a fantastic view of the western coastline and the lagoon. Take a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery before the final ascent.
The Last Stretch to the Summit
The most exciting part of the hike is the last stretch to the summit. The trail culminates in a 15-metre rock face. This is the exposed rock face of Raemaru – which leaves you with the decision; to climb or not to climb? This is a rock climb to the peak of the mountain.
Heavy ropes and steel bars are bolted into the rock to facilitate the climb, making it manageable for those with a reasonable fitness level.
To climb or not to climb? I’ll leave that up to you!
Raemaru Summit
Once you reach the top, the reward is immediate and unforgettable. The flat-topped peak of Raemaru offers stunning 360-degree views of the island.
You’ll see the patchwork of farmlands below, the turquoise lagoon fringed by the reef, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the opposite side of the island.
The hike down is just as important as the climb up. Be careful on the slippery sections and take your time, especially on the descent from the rock face.
GUIDE – Hiking Raemaru in Rarotonga
For an even more enriching experience, consider hiring a local guide. They not only ensure your safety but also share fascinating stories and historical facts about the area that you would likely miss on your own.
Companies like Maunga Tours and Ariimoana Walkabouts offer fantastic guided treks in Rarotonga.
QR Code Self-Guided Raemaru Trek
A self-guided tour of the Raemaru Trek is available using QR codes.
All you need to access this is a smartphone with a Vodafone visitor SIM card. (A visitor SIM card can be purchased at the airport on arrival or at the Vodafone store in Avarua).
There is no charge for the QR code tour.
- Read about the best Cook Islands SIM Card for Rarotonga.
KIDS – Hiking Raemaru in Rarotonga
Hiking the Raemaru Trek with children is a fantastic family adventure, offering a more manageable alternative to the challenging Cross Island Track.
The trail is well-suited for kids with a moderate fitness level, as it’s shorter and less rigorous. The initial part of the hike winds through a lush, shaded forest. There is plenty to see along the trail that will keep kids entertained; butterflies, millipedes, ants and more. Plus marvellous views from the ridge out over Arorangi to sights that are recognizable from up above.
Lengthwise it is a great choice for a hike in Rarotonga with kids. Technically the track is not particularly challenging, bar a couple of spots along the ridgeline where the trail is narrow.
Overall, this is a great choice for a family friendly island hike.
Enjoy Raemaru
Raemaru is more than just a hike; it’s an adventure that combines physical challenge with rich natural beauty and a touch of local lore. It’s an unforgettable experience and a must-do for any active traveller visiting Rarotonga.
Other Hikes in Rarotonga
- Hiking Up-And-Back To The Needle.
- Guide To The Rarotonga Cross Island Walk.
- Hiking The Challenging Mount Ikurangi.
- All About The Maungatea Bluff Track.
Read More about Holiday to Rarotonga
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Essential Tips On Visiting Cook Islands.
- All About The Markets In Rarotonga.
- Places To Eat In Rarotonga On Sunday.
- Renting A Car in Rarotonga.
- How To Buy A Car In Rarotonga.
- Finding And Renting A House In Rarotonga.
- Rarotonga Reef Explorer Tour With Ariimoana.
- Is Dengue Fever A Worry For Travel To Rarotonga?
More about travel planning for Cook Islands and beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before traveling to the Cook Islands!
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