Rarotonga’s 12 Best Tours (With Prices & Reviews)

Rarotonga isn’t just beautiful to look at — it’s also a place where you can get surprisingly involved in its natural beauty and local culture. This island offers an array of tours that turn your visit into a memorable, authentic experience. We especially love the Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour for its fun and safe approach to swimming with turtles, and the Private Turtle and Ray Tour for those seeking a more intimate, photo-worthy adventure. Whether you’re into snorkeling, biking, or exploring the island’s history, Rarotonga’s tours give you a taste of the real island life beyond just lounging on the beach.

One of the things that make Rarotonga such a fantastic tour destination is its manageable size and friendly local operators. It’s easy to find activities that suit your interests, whether that’s underwater photography, cultural walks, or lively nightlife. We’ve rounded up the most engaging and highly-rated options, so you can choose what fits your style and schedule best.

Quick Overview

Rarotonga offers a good mix of marine adventures, cultural explorations, and lively evening tours. For underwater fun, the Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour and the Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour stand out, combining excellent reviews with unique experiences. If you prefer exploring on land, the ‘Explore’ Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim provides a scenic, relaxed way to see the island’s villages and beaches. For night owls, the 4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour promises a lively taste of local bars, all with safe transport included. Whatever your interests, the options below cover a range of tastes and budgets.

1. Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour in Rarotonga

At number 1, the Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour is a top-rated choice for those wanting a safe, exhilarating way to see marine life. This tour uses Fun Sea-scooters to quickly reach the turtles, saving you from tiring swims and maximizing your viewing time. The locally owned and operated company prides itself on providing an authentic island experience with personal attention. What sets this tour apart is the blend of safety, small group size, and the ability to see eagle rays and graceful turtles in their natural habitat, often at close range.

Guests consistently rave about the unforgettable experience, with many noting how easy it is to get fantastic photos after the swim. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendliness, making this tour ideal for both novice and experienced swimmers. The 1.5-hour duration is perfect for families or those with limited time, and the $111.70 cost offers good value considering the quality of the experience. The small group setting (groups of 4-6) fosters an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

Bottom Line: If you want a fun, eco-friendly way to swim with turtles and see eagle rays, this tour offers excellent value and a deeply personal experience.

2. Private Rarotonga Turtle Tour

For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Private Rarotonga Turtle Tour is a fantastic option. With a maximum of 3 people per group, this tour offers customized attention and a chance to explore the underwater world without the crowds. It includes all snorkeling gear, and after swimming with the turtles, you’ll enjoy fresh local fruits as a refreshing treat. The tour’s two-hour duration provides plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.

The tour’s small-group format is highly rated, with reviews emphasizing the expert guidance and friendly atmosphere. The tour guarantees turtle sightings, and with professional photographers on hand, you can leave with beautiful underwater photos. The tour is priced at $384.76 per group, making it a good choice for couples or small families wanting a luxurious, intimate adventure.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke, photo-ready experience with guaranteed turtle encounters.

3. ‘Explore’ Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour with Lunch and Swim

At number 3, the ‘Explore’ Rarotonga Guided Bike Tour offers a more active way to experience the island’s local villages, beaches, and farmland. During this five-hour tour, you’ll cycle along the historic Coral Road, passing scenic spots like Black Rock and the old Sheraton Hotel site. The tour includes hotel pickup, bike rental, and lunch, making it excellent value at just over $93 per person.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll learn about the island’s culture and history while stopping for a secluded beach swim and enjoying a delicious meal and cocktail at a beachside restaurant. The ride is rated as easy, suitable for most fitness levels, and the small-group format ensures personal attention. Guests mention the informative commentary and relaxed pace as highlights.

Bottom Line: If you enjoy cycling and want a relaxed, immersive day exploring Rarotonga’s villages and coastlines, this tour hits the sweet spot.

4. Private Turtle and Ray Tour Rarotonga

The Private Turtle and Ray Tour is designed for travelers craving an exclusive experience. This two-hour tour guarantees turtle sightings and offers the chance to swim with eagle rays if conditions are right. Snorkelling gear and flower crowns are included, and the experience can be tailored to suit non-swimmers or families.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to have your experience captured by a Canon ambassador photographer, with professional photos included. Guests love the personalized attention and the guaranteed turtle encounters, making it ideal for romantic getaways or special occasions. The cost is $179.97 per person, reflecting the premium quality and intimate setting.

Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious, photo-rich experience with guaranteed turtle sightings.

5. 4-Hour Rarotonga Going Troppo Nightlife Tour

If your idea of fun involves sampling Rarotonga’s nightlife, the Going Troppo Nightlife Tour is a lively, stress-free choice. For around $57, you get transport, entry fees, snacks, and your first drink included, plus a guided experience visiting 3-4 bars. The tour runs from early evening to late, with music, dancing, and local drinks.

The tour’s small group size and organized transport make it easy for travelers to relax and enjoy the night without worrying about losing friends or finding their way home. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and great atmosphere as highlights, though some note the tour can be longer than four hours. This option suits budget travelers and social butterflies looking for a fun night out.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to experience Rarotonga’s bar scene.

6. Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour

The Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour offers a relaxed snorkeling experience with a guarantee to see turtles. At just over an hour and a half, it’s a quick but rewarding trip. The tour includes snorkeling equipment and professional underwater photos, which guests rave about for their artistic quality.

This tour is praised for its friendly staff and the ability to see multiple turtle species during the trip. Reviewers mention how the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, making sure everyone gets a good look at the marine life. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want a shorter, high-quality snorkeling outing.

Bottom Line: Great if you want a focused, high-quality turtle encounter with professional photos included.

7. An Eagle Ray and Turtle Tour – Small Groups & Photography Included

This smaller group tour offers an epic underwater adventure with opportunities to see eagle rays and turtles. The tour emphasizes personalized attention and includes world-class photography, making it a fantastic choice for travelers wanting professional photos of their marine encounters.

Rated only 3.5/5, mainly because of limited reviews, it still appeals to those eager for an adventure with expert guidance. The one and a half hour trip is tailored for those comfortable snorkeling and interested in learning free diving techniques. The tour is priced at $143.35 per person, reflecting its premium approach.

Bottom Line: Perfect for experienced snorkelers seeking a photo-rich, guided experience with marine life.

8. Lazy Sunday Bicycle Tour

For a truly relaxed day, consider the Lazy Sunday Bicycle Tour. This four-hour ride takes you through historic sites, beaches, and local neighborhoods at a gentle pace. The tour includes local commentary and stops at Black Rock and other cultural spots, making it ideal for non-enthusiasts or families.

Guests mention how it’s a great way to get your bearings and see the island at a slow, enjoyable pace. The tour costs about $80 and is perfect if you want to combine light activity with sightseeing. It’s a less intense way to learn about Rarotonga’s culture and history.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic ride with local insights.

9. A Turtle Tour on Rarotonga – Small Groups, Premium Experience

This small-group tour emphasizes quality over quantity. It limits participants to 10, ensuring personalized attention during the 90-minute underwater adventure. The focus is on swimming with majestic green turtles and exploring vibrant coral gardens.

The guides are praised for their supportive approach — helping less confident swimmers feel comfortable. The tour’s reviews highlight the careful attention to safety and the small group intimacy. For $119.77, you get a premium experience that prioritizes quality marine encounters and memorable photos.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a focused, high-quality turtle experience in a small group.

10. A Cook Islands Turtle Tour – Small Groups, Premium Experience

Similar to the previous, this premium small-group tour guarantees turtle encounters with professional underwater photography included. It’s a one-and-a-half-hour adventure suitable for wildlife lovers wanting to save time searching and instead enjoy swimming in the best turtle spots.

Guests appreciate the personalized service and the digital photo album they receive afterward. It’s a solid pick for those who want a luxurious, photo-filled experience with guaranteed marine life. The cost is $119.77 per person, reflecting its high-end focus.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re after a guaranteed turtle swim and gorgeous photos, in a small, intimate setting.

11. Avarua Historical Walking Tour

For a break from underwater adventures, the Avarua Historical Walking Tour offers a cultural snapshot of the island’s capital. It’s a one-hour and thirty-minute stroll through downtown Avarua, visiting landmarks like the Palace of Justice, oldest church, and the university. It’s a great way to learn about the local history and architecture without straining your legs.

Reviewers mention how this tour is a fun, informative walk with a guide who shares interesting stories. It’s an affordable option at just over $34, making it accessible for most travelers and a good option for history enthusiasts or those wanting a lighter cultural experience.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting to add some history and culture to their trip without taking up too much time.

12. A Private TURTLE Tour on Rarotonga with Photography and Transfers

Last but not least, the Private Turtle Tour offers a luxurious, all-inclusive experience. It’s tailored for couples or small groups seeking maximum privacy and personalized service. The tour guarantees swimming with turtles and includes professional beach portraits and underwater photographs.

This five-star tour lasts about 90 minutes and features professional freediving photography with digital access afterward. The $950.91 price tag caters to those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime, high-quality experience with camera-ready memories. The tour can be customized to include children, non-swimmers, or special requests.

Bottom Line: If you want ultimate exclusivity and stunning photos, this tour is your best bet, especially for romantic or special occasions.

How to Choose

When selecting a tour in Rarotonga, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If swimming with turtles is your main goal, the Eco Friendly Sea Scooter and Cook Islands Turtle and Ray Tour are both highly recommended for their value and reviews. For a more personalized experience, the Private Turtle and Ray Tour or the Small Group Premium Turtle Tour offer tailored adventures with professional photos.

If you prefer exploring on land, the Guided Bike Tour provides a scenic, relaxed day, while the Lazy Sunday Bicycle Tour is ideal for a light, cultural outing. For night owls, the Going Troppo Nightlife Tour delivers a fun, guided bar crawl without the hassle of planning.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Private Turtle and Ray Tour or the Private Turtle Tour with Photography, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Rarotonga’s tours cover every interest — from underwater encounters with turtles and rays to cultural walks and lively nightlife. For the best value, the Eco Friendly Sea Scooter Turtle Tour offers a fun, memorable experience at a reasonable price. Those seeking a luxury, photo-arty adventure will love the Private Turtle and Ray Tour or the Turtle Tour with Photography.

No matter your style, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these highly-rated experiences. Rarotonga’s friendly guides and stunning scenery mean your tour will be a highlight of your island getaway.