Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens consult its website daily via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances about visiting United Kingdom and Cook Islands.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport is valid at the date of their entering the country and during the length of their entire visit. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required for stays of less than 30 days. It is possible to extend visit up to 5 months.
US Embassy/Consulate
None (self-governing in free association with New Zealand); US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the Embassy in New Zealand [64] (4) 462-6000; United States Embassy Wellington, 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
682
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 998; Fire: 996; Police: 999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Cook Islands: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza. See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical oceanic; moderated by trade winds; a dry season (April to November) and a more humid season (December to March)
Currency (Code)
New Zealand dollars (NZD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
240 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): I
Major Languages
English 86.4%, Cook Islands Maori (Rarotongan) 76.2%, other 8.3%; note: shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census
Major Religions
Protestant 62.8%, Roman Catholic 17%, Mormon 4.4%
Time Difference
UTC-10 (5 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
A local license is required.
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Tapuaetai (One Foot Island); Muri Beach; Titikaveka Beach; Te Vara Nui Village; cross-island hike to Te Rua Manga (The Needle); Aroa Marine Reserve
Major Sports
Netball, rugby, soccer
Cultural Practices
Swimwear should be confined to the beach and resort pool areas.
Tipping Guidelines
Don't feel that you need to leave a tip, unless you believe that you have received outstanding service.
Souvenirs
Pareu cloth and quilted items, woven hats and baskets, carved wooden instruments and decorative items, pearl and shell items, collectible coins and stamps
Traditional Cuisine
Ika Mata — freshly caught fish cooked in lemon juice and then combined with fresh coconut cream, onion, and chilis; typically served with a side salad
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, September 18, 2023
