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The Trailblazers of the Northern Atolls package offers an unforgettable journey to two of the Cook Islands’ most remote and culturally rich islands—Manihiki and Penrhyn (Tongareva). This 4-night adventure is designed for intrepid travellers seeking authentic encounters, natural beauty, and the warm hospitality of outer island communities.
Begin your journey in Manihiki, famously known as the “Island of Pearls,” where crystal-clear lagoon waters cradle pearl farms and the rhythms of island life remain largely untouched by time. Stay in comfortable guesthouse-style accommodation and enjoy an insightful guided tour of the island’s villages and pearl farms, with opportunities to meet local artisans and observe the traditional methods of black pearl cultivation.
Then fly to Penrhyn, the northernmost island in the Cook Islands, with one of the largest enclosed lagoons in the Pacific. Discover the spiritual and historical significance of this unique atoll on a guided tour, and enjoy cultural exchanges with local communities that few travellers ever get to experience.
Throughout the package, all inter-island flights, accommodation, transfers, daily breakfasts, and guided tours are included. With limited tourist access and unforgettable encounters, this journey offers a rare opportunity to step off the map and into the heart of the Northern Cooks.
Day 1: Rarotonga to Pukapuka
Arrive in Pukapuka via Motu Ko Airport and transfer by boat to Wale, the main village. After lunch and a cultural briefing, enjoy a guided tour to meet locals and learn about the island’s customs and daily life.
Day 2: Pukapuka to Manihiki
After breakfast, return to Motu Ko for your flight to Manihiki. Settle into your accommodation in Tukao and enjoy lunch before a cultural briefing. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Tauhunu Village, view traditional fishing traps, and explore the lagoon.
Day 3: Manihiki
Begin the day with a visit to a Kaoa (pearl farm) to learn about black pearl farming. Spend the day swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing with a BBQ lunch on the lagoon before returning for dinner and downtime.
Day 4: Manihiki to Tongareva (Penrhyn)
Fly to Tongareva (Penrhyn) and check into your accommodation near Omoka village. After lunch, embark on an afternoon tour, visiting Mangarongaro ruins and, weather permitting, Te Tautua on the opposite side of the lagoon.
Day 5: Tongareva to Rarotonga
Start the morning with a shark feeding tour, followed by breakfast. Explore Mama’s market for traditional rito crafts, then visit the WWII B24 bomber site and a local legend site before lunch and your flight back to Rarotonga.
Dates available on request basis.
Price:
Pricing ranges from AUD$13,116 per person if 6 people travelling to AUD$19,149 per person if 4 people travelling.
All prices are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice. Please note that prices quoted are subject to change during the search and booking process. Price changes occur due to matters outside our control including currency fluctuation which may increase the cost of the product or service. The price and the service are only guaranteed when paid in full. Please note that prices may not cover tips/gratuities for drivers or local guides, passport and visa fees, baggage fees, flight seat assignments, personal insurance, park permits, and any personal items. Additional taxes not specified in the price and beverages or food not explicitly listed under “Inclusions” in your quote may also incur extra charges.
Booking Requests:
All package enquiries are processed on a request basis. A non refundable $110 per adult deposit or full payment will be required upon confirmation of the booking to secure your preferred dates subject to supplier conditions. Suppliers may request additional deposits and these will be quoted upon confirmation and are in addition to Travelcation Group conditions. If your preferred dates are unavailable, we will suggest a suitable alternative.
Payment Terms:
Some suppliers may require a deposit or full payment in advance to secure your booking. You will be advised before we request confirmation if this is applicable. To prevent cancellation, all payments must be completed by due dates as per the payment schedule detailed in your booking confirmation.Payment for online bookings can be made by MasterCard, Visa and American Express. AA1.8% fee applies for credit card payment when paying by our secure payment gateway at https://travelcationgroup.com/payment. a 1.8% fee applies for credit card payment when paying by our sercure payment gateway at https://travelcationgroup.com/payment. No fee applies for direct deposit payments
Cancellation & Amendment Charges
Cancellations and amendments may incur fees. Our travel service providers reserve the right to impose cancellation charges, which can be up to 100% of the total amount paid for the relevant services, regardless of whether travel has commenced. If any refunds are received from providers, they will be passed on to you, less quoted cancellation fees. Deposits are non refundable and non transferable. Please refer to our Cancellation Policy in our terms and conditions for full details.
Terms & Conditions
By purchasing this package, you acknowledge and agree to our full terms and conditions, which can be accessed here.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances. Supplier penalty fees advised will be applied in the event of cancellation.
Speak to a Travelcation Group travel expert or your preferred travel agent about comprehensive coverage options tailored to your needs.