Aitutaki is a small island and atoll situated in the southern group of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific. Although most travellers are aware of the Cook Islands’ reputation of being some of the most beautiful islands in the world, this is an area which is still far off the mainstream tourist radar but for some adventurers, this only adds to its appeal.
The island is known to have been inhabited for over 1,000 years by people of Polynesian descent but was only discovered by Europeans when visited by Captain Bligh aboard HMS Bounty on 11th April 1789 just 17 days prior to the infamous mutiny. Lying approximately halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, for most people, this is a far-flung destination but those who have visited Aitutaki have no reservations in advising that the long trip is well worthwhile.