Atiu. The Island of Birds. Once I won return flights to Rarotonga via Cook Islands Tourism, Mark and I knew we wanted to check out Atiu. I won these tickets after going to a travel expo, and there we picked up a package deal to stay at Atiu Villas.
We originally booked our trip for November, but it got pushed out until May due to Auckland going back into Lockdown. In order for us to fly to Atiu from Rarotonga, we had to get a RAT test at the airport.
Once we arrived, it was interesting to see the Island. Yes, we were some of the first visitors in over a year and it was not crowded what-so-ever, but at the same time Omicron was recking havoc and a lot of tours were closed. This meant we were unable to go to do the famous cave tours with sonic birds. Atiu is the only place in the world with these blind birds that navigate in dark caves via sonar. With a few other native bird species living on the Island, this is what makes it known for it’s bird population.
It was also interesting to see how the Island dealt with a Covid outbreak. If a family was isolating, they taped off the house, and if there was a high risk person in the household there was an orange flag as a warning.
Atiu Villas is the main place to stay on the Island. It used to be the only accommodation, however there are some smaller Airbnb type homes to stay in now. With about 10 Villas, the grounds have the only pool on the Island and a tennis court. There is also a restaurant and bar. We really enjoyed the cooking and ability to gather as a small family each night with the other guests.
We checked in and went directly to the beach. It was a 15 minute walk down the hill, and about 20 on the way back. This beach will forever be a special beach for me, as after being blown away by its beauty, Mark popped the question.
On a high, we came back to the Villa to take photos and tell family & friends. We then had our first dinner with 2 other guests and the owner of the Villas. He had some great stories and knowledge about the Atiu.
The next morning we got breakfast at a local cafe and then rented bikes. We rode around the entire Island and stopped at every beach. We passed a few people, but it was always Mark and I alone at each location. It was a stunning day and just beautiful!
The following day we were picked up by Birdman George for his EcoTour. He has lived on the Island most of his life and was taught everything about the flora & fauna by his grandmother.
He drove us around to the visitor center, pointed out the main churches and an old ship wreck. He then took us on the back roads to point out birds and gather our lunch. It was by far one of the most authentic experiences I have ever done and I highly recommend coming to Atiu just for time with Birdman.
The next day we had a coffee tour with Mata. Again, another very genuine tour which I highly recommend, especially if you like coffee. Mata pays all of her staff a living wage and allows you to taste the coffee in her home with local cuisine. You don’t have the coffee until you try it with her homemade coconut cream, the freshest on the Island!
We enjoyed Atiu so much that we did not want to leave. After 4 nights, we felt we could have stayed a full week. It was real Island time with the friendliest people and relaxing atmosphere.
Tip: Atiu is not for people who expect modern day resort comforts. Yes there are amenities, but guests are expected to make their own meals if the restaurant is not open. For example, they do not offer breakfast and there is not air conditioning. Each villa is well stocked with items, but this comes with an additional cost. I recommend brining some mosquito coils as the bugs can get bad at night.
What is your favorite Cook Island Island?