Travel advice for Cook Islands

Hungary advises a high degree of caution for Cook Islands.

Exercise increased caution when travelling to the Cook Islands because crime is moderately high and tourists may face theft and assault. Drink only boiled or bottled water, as supplies are limited and may be contaminated, and prepare for limited medical care and possible evacuation to New Zealand. Take mosquito precautions against dengue and Zika, monitor cyclone and tsunami warnings, and avoid animals because of bite and rabies risks.

Australia advises normal precautions for Cook Islands.

Exercise normal security precautions in the Cook Islands. Petty crime occurs but violent crime is rare. Coastal lagoons have tidal currents and riptides that cause drownings, beaches often lack lifeguards, and some tour operators may not meet international standards. Overloaded or poorly maintained ferries may be unsafe. On Rarotonga, avoid driving after dark and in hazardous rainy season conditions, use marked taxis, and watch for stray animals and motorcycle accidents.

Estonian citizens may visit visa free for tourism or business for up to 31 days, and tourists may extend their stay. A passport must be valid for six months after departure, and travellers must show an onward or return ticket. As there is no Estonian or other EU representation, consular assistance for stolen or lost passports, detention or emergencies is extremely difficult. Consult other countries' travel advice before departure.

Germany advises normal precautions for Cook Islands.

Hong Kong advises normal precautions for Cook Islands.

Irish citizens should take normal precautions in the Cook Islands because petty crime can occur. Avoid demonstrations, night driving outside built up areas, and swimming without local advice because fatal accidents can occur at popular beaches. Guard against mosquito bites because of dengue, choose deep water fish to reduce ciguatera risk, and boil or use bottled water. Ensure insurance covers medical evacuation, likely to New Zealand, because local medical facilities are limited.

Japan advises normal precautions for Cook Islands.

Take normal precautions and obtain travel insurance because healthcare is limited and treatment may require transfer abroad. Using, possessing or selling drugs, including soft drugs, is prohibited and punished much more severely than in the Netherlands. Earthquakes, landslides and tsunamis are risks, while tropical storms, especially from November to April, can cause flooding, damage and impassable roads, so follow local authorities. LGBTQ+ travellers may face discrimination or aggression.

No advisory is in force, but travellers should keep belongings attended, stay vigilant, travel in groups and avoid going out alone at night. Medical facilities are limited and medical evacuation can be expensive, so purchase comprehensive insurance. Dress appropriately and be aware of local sensitivities, especially outside resort areas. Between November and April, monitor weather forecasts and follow local authorities as cyclones may cause flooding, landslides and travel disruption.