Kia Orana! Just in case you were thinking you’ve seen the best of the Cook Islands after visiting Rarotonga and Aitutaki, let me tell you about Mauke. This is another one of the beautiful Southern Group of the Cook Islands that feels like a real privilege to visit. There are some truly unique things to do on Mauke!
Albeit this is not a destination for resort-goers; Mauke offers an authentic, untamed South Pacific escape far removed from the tourist trail.
Known for its distinct Makatea (raised coral) geology and genuine community feel, Mauke invites you to explore its hidden freshwater caves, ancient legends, and tranquil coastlines.
This guide distils the best of Mauke into 10 Essential Experiences, plus practical tips for getting around, staying, and dining.
- About Mauke
- Getting to Mauke
- Transport on Mauke
- Things to Do on Mauke
– Vai Tongo Cave
– Banyan Tree
– The Divided Church
– Grave of Kea
– Te Kou Maru Shipwreck
– Te Oneroa Beach
– Kopupooki Cave
– Vai Moraro and Vai Ou Cave
– Taunganui Landing - Where to Stay in Mauke
- Where to Eat in Mauke
- More About Cook Islands
Hey! We are Away With The Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Welcome to Mauke, Cook Islands
Did I mention that we are fortunate enough to live here in the Cook Islands? We have been living in Rarotonga twice now and feel extremely lucky for the chance to visit Mauke.
If you’ve been following us for a while you know that we love travel. (We’ve been on the road for six years!).
But Mauke is right up our alley – Mauke is defined by its pristine coral coastline, lush inner forest, and a palpable sense of community that certainly feels untouched by mass tourism.
In fact, Mauke, originally named as ‘Akatokamanava‘ – which means ‘the place where my heart rested’, is known as the Garden Island of the Cook Islands. It is famously known for its abundance of flowers and the iconically rich, green ‘Ei Maire garlands that only come from the island of Mauke.
Plus, it is well known for the incredible swimming caves and beautiful beaches. So, it’s no wonder the island is a beauty waiting to be explored!
Getting to Mauke Island, Cook Islands
Reaching Mauke is part of the adventure itself. Air Rarotonga operates flights a few times a week from Rarotonga (sometimes via Mitiaro).
The flight takes approximately 50 minutes in total. Though the flight time can be longer if the plane stops at Mitiaro along the way.
The Landing Experience
Mauke’s airport is famously simple. Upon landing, don’t expect a terminal; you will walk off the plane and straight onto the tarmac.
Local accommodation hosts or family members will be there to meet you, and the luggage is simply offloaded onto a trolley.
This immediate immersion sets the tone for your stay: relaxed, authentic, and utterly personal.
Transport on the Island of Mauke
Mauke’s main road circles the island, a distance of about 18 kilometres (11 miles).
The interior is dominated by the ‘Tapaeruru,’ the central village, and the surrounding plantations.
Scooters (Mopeds)
This is, without a doubt, the best way to explore. You can rent a scooter from your guesthouse or a local contact.
Given the small size of the island, scooters offer the freedom to stop whenever a photo opportunity arises or a secluded track catches your eye.
Remember to ride slowly, especially near the jagged Makatea roads.
Walking and Cycling
Since the roads are quiet, cycling is a lovely option, especially around the flat interior and main village. However, the Makatea trails and coast roads can be rough. Plus you need to find a bicycle in the first place!
Many parts of the island, including the cave entrances, are best reached on foot with a local guide.
10 Essential Things to Do on Mauke, Cook Islands
Mauke’s activities are centred on its geology and community.
Prepare to spend your days exploring natural wonders and interacting with the incredibly welcoming locals.
1. Swim in Vai Tango Cave
Mauke is famous for its Makatea cave systems, and Vai Tango is the jewel. Arrange for a local guide and descend into this immense cavern to find a large, cool, clear freshwater pool illuminated by natural light filtering through the roof.
This is for sure the most famous of things to do in Mauke! It’s a magical and otherworldly swimming experience, perfect for escaping the tropical heat.
2. Swing Like Tarzan on the Largest Banyan Tree
Venture to the island’s central area to find the largest known Banyan Tree in the South Pacific. Its massive aerial roots have grown over centuries, creating a fascinating jungle playground.
Bring out your inner child by finding a robust root and taking a Tarzan-like swing—a fun, memorable activity and a spectacular photo opportunity that highlights Mauke’s unique, lush interior!
3. Tour ‘The Divided Church’ of Mauke
Visit the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) in the main village of Tapaeruru.
This historic church is architecturally unique because, in earlier times, two rival church factions agreed to worship under one roof but built a wall—or divided the building—right down the middle.
This fascinating structure stands as a testament to the island’s complex religious and community history.
4. Visit Anaiti Cove and Kea’s Grave
Journey to the rugged eastern coast to visit Anaiti Cove and the poignant Grave of Kea. The legend tells of Kea, who waited atop this coral cliff for her beloved Paikea, who was lost at sea during a storm.
Paikea, in fact, survived and sailed on to become an ancestor in Māori New Zealand tradition. Kea’s remains now rest near the spot where she waited, offering a deep connection to powerful Polynesian lore and a stunning view of the wild ocean.
5. See the Te Kou Maru Shipwreck
On Mauke’s western side, you can find the remains of the Te Kou Maru shipwreck.
This small cargo vessel ran aground here, and its rusted skeleton remains wedged in the Makatea reef, providing a dramatic contrast between the sharp coral and the relics of modern seafaring. It’s a striking sight and a reminder of the ocean’s power.
6. Beach Hop and Swim at Te Oneroa
While the Makatea dominates, Mauke has stretches of beautiful sand perfect for swimming.
Te Oneroa Beach is the longest sandy stretch on the island.
While you’re exploring the coast, you’ll encounter other secluded spots like Anaoke, Anaraura, Rererua, and One’unga Beaches, each offering privacy for shell collecting and sunbathing.
7. Visit Kopupooki Beach and Cave
Located on the northern coast, Kopupooki features a beautiful beach where the coral gives way to soft sand.
Nearby, you can explore the accessible Kopupooki Cave, another example of the Makatea’s porous structure.
While smaller than Vai Tango, it’s a tranquil spot where you can often hear the ocean surging through the coral rock.
8. Find Vai Moraro and Vai Ou Caves
Mauke has so many cave pools that you could spend days exploring! Seek out Vai Moraro and Vai Ou Caves, which contain refreshing freshwater pools.
These spots are often smaller and less well-known than Vai Tango, making them feel like truly secret discoveries. Note though – always use a local guide to ensure safe navigation into these hidden geological wonders.
9. Enjoy Local Kai (Food)
Dining on Mauke is a community experience. Since there are no formal restaurants, the best way to enjoy local cuisine (kai) is through your guesthouse host.
Ask for local dishes like fresh fish, taro, and rukau (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream).
Enjoying a traditional meal with a local family is an unparalleled cultural highlight. 🙂
10. Swim at Mauke Harbour, Taunganui Landing
The main boat landing at Taunganui Harbour (or Taunganui Landing) is the island’s hub for supplies.
Here, the locals have created a genius solution for safe swimming: a small, protected ocean pool within the harbor breakwater.
It’s an ideal spot for a refreshing, calm swim, protected from the open ocean waves, and a great place to watch local life unfold.
Where to Stay in Mauke: Accommodation Options
Mauke’s accommodation scene is small, local, and focused entirely on authentic guesthouses and homestays.
Do not expect resorts or high-end amenities; expect warmth, simplicity, and personalised service.
- Tiare Village: A popular, well-regarded guesthouse offering simple, clean, self-contained units. This often includes access to kitchen facilities and personalized assistance from the family who run it, making it feel like a genuine home away from home.
- Ri’s Homestay: We stayed at Ri’s Homestay just near the airport and can absolutely recommend. Accommodation is basic but comfortable, and the meals provided by your hosts (often available upon request) are an invaluable experience in local cuisine.
Booking is Essential: With only a couple of places to stay, you must book your accommodation well in advance, and your host will typically arrange your airport transfers and be there to welcome you to Mauke.
Dining: Where to Eat in Mauke
The concept of a ‘restaurant’ does not really exist on Mauke. Dining is a local, community-driven affair, and flexibility is key.
- Self-Catering: The guesthouses offer small kitchenettes, allowing you to prepare your own meals. It’s best to bring specialty items from Rarotonga, though basic groceries (flour, rice, eggs) are available in the small local shops.
- Guesthouse Meals: The best meals are often those prepared by your hosts. Ask if they offer a dinner option; this is the perfect way to try traditional Polynesian dishes like rukau (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream) and fresh fish.
- Local Takeaways: Occasionally, locals will run small, informal takeaway stands, especially near the main village, offering plates of fried chicken, chips, or fried fish. Ask your host where to find the local hot spots that day.
- Tropical Fruit: Feast on the abundance of fresh, locally grown fruit—pineapples, bananas, and pawpaw often grown in the Makatea’s rich soil.
Final Thoughts: Visiting Mauke
A trip to Mauke is a chance to step back in time. It’s a remote island experience defined by its incredible geological features, the cool, dark sanctuaries of its caves, and the pure warmth of its people.
Embrace the simplicity, respect the pace of life, and you will leave Mauke with memories that last a lifetime!
Read More About Travel to Rarotonga
- 10 Foods To Try In Rarotonga.
- Charter Fishing In Rarotonga.
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Hiring A Scooter In Rarotonga.
- Renting A Car In Rarotonga.
- Choosing A Lagoon Cruise In Muri, Rarotonga.
- Rarotonga Reef Explorer Tour With Ariimoana.
- Is Dengue Fever A Worry For Travel To Rarotonga?
- Transport And Getting Around Rarotonga.
More About Travel Planning for Cook Islands and Beyond
These are the companies we use 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. Easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for.
- 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 including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before holidaying to Rarotonga!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.