On Rarotonga, visitors can be regaled with the history and culture of the Cook Islanders on active day tours led by guides from Storytellers (Box 2130, Arorangi; phone +682 23450, www.storytellers.co.ck).
On Thursday afternoon, the 1½-hour “Take-a-peek” bicycle tour (NZD40, near $29) is on mostly paved interior roads. On Monday and Wednesday mornings, the 3-hour “Discovery” bicycle tour (NZD80), on paved and dirt roads, follows Ara Metua, the Ancient Coral Road, and includes lunch. On Thursday morning, the customizable 1½-hour “Walk-about” tour (NZD35) can include trying local food, engaging in local culture or seeing historical sites; it ends with ice cream.
Each tour includes transfers to and from members’ accommodations plus any necessary equipment.