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Aitutaki Lagoon,
Cook Islands
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aitutaki pictures map
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The highlight of Aitutaki is undoubtedly exploring the uninhabited motu fringing the lagoon. There are about 20 islands in all, and until recently no one lived there and there was no accommodation. These were true paradise islands. However, Akaiami Island now has two small lodges and there is a small lodge on One Foot Island.
The private Akaiami Lodge on gorgeous Akaiami Island is the only up-market place to stay. It is a carefully reconstructed lodge made from local materials where once stood the air terminal for the Teal flying sea-planes which flew the Coral Air Route between North America and New Zealand in the 1950's. Akaiami was one of the refuelling stops en-route and the original jetty still exists. The beaches on Akaiami are fantastic with excellent swimming and it is possible to wade across to neighbouring islands at low tide.
Day cruises to the motu depart every morning except Sunday, which is a strict day of rest when everything closes down. Most visit the exquisite One Foot Island in the south where it's possible to walk out into the lagoon and along sand banks. One Foot has gorgeous beaches and great views of the other islands, but, with lots of day-trippers all trying to see and do as much as they can in a few hours, the place is rather busy. Snorkelling throughout the lagoon is excellent with loads of friendly fish and giant clams and there is good scuba diving to view the drop-offs outside the main reef.
Moturakau is another popular setting down spot and is one of two islands in the centre of the lagoon, both of volcanic origin and therefore are higher. It was here that the original British television docu-soap series Shipwrecked was located.
Maina or Honeymoon Island in the west tip is another popular spot and has lots of nesting sea birds.
Whilst the larger day cruises offer a quick glimpse at the islands and congregate on mass at One Foot Island at about the same time (midday) to really appreciate the beauty of the islands it is best to take a private boat cruise to visit other islands or to visit One Foot in the early morning or late afternoon.
search for ... Aitutaki Resorts
find ... Aitutaki Tour Companies
continue to ... Atiu Island
Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:
Fiji Travel Guide
Samoa Travel Guide
Tonga Travel Guide
Tahiti Travel Guide
Hawaii Travel Guide
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