Ultimate Pukapuka Island Travel Guide: Explore This Hidden Paradise! 2025

Is it the “End of the World”? Pukapuka Island is considered the end of the world, because, it is isolated remotely to the east of Australia, in the South Pacific Ocean.

Before dwelling on it, we must first know a bit about the Cook Islands archipelago, as Pukapuka is one of the islands in it.

Cook Islands chain:

When you zoom in or view in full-screen mode, you will realize the consideration that the archipelago looks like the end of the world.

The Cook Islands are part of Polynesia and hence a part of Oceania too. Comprising over 9 million sq. km, Oceania includes the following countries and regions:

• Australia
• Micronesia
• Polynesia
• Melanesia

BTW, do you know that in modern geography, Oceania is known as a continent?

Actually, when I looked at the map of Polynesia, I saw Easter Island to be at the easternmost of the archipelago. Geographically, Easter Island should be considered to be located at the end of the world or at the beginning of the world.

Cook Islands archipelago has 15 islands and among them, Pukapuka Island is one.

Overview of Pukapuka Island:

Culturally, and geographically, it is simply a fascinating island. It is in the north of the Cook Islands.

It measures just 1.3 sq.km. Furthermore, it is not even an island but an atoll. A total of 3 islets form the atoll. They are:

• Motu Koe
• Wale
• Motu Kotawa

The atoll is east-west positioned. In that direction, it measures 3 km. In the north-south (width) direction, it measures 2 km.

About 500 people live on this tiny floating land. For such a small atoll, I think it is overpopulated.

Pukapuka Island Travel Guide

What to do in Pukapuka?

I can say, almost nothing. It is too remote an island to have developed into a true holiday spot. There are no water sports and other fun-related activities.

People go to this island because of its challenging location, and exotic culture that has not had any exposure to other cultures.

The 3 islets are centered around a lovely lagoon. The islanders’ life revolves around spending time in the lagoon, playing, and catching fish.

Snorkeling is possible in the lagoon, but you will have to carry the snorkel on your own, as they are not rented out on the island.

Beachcombing is recommended. You may stumble onto unique seashells, and even some corals!

The lagoon is almost a still water body. You can kayak provided there is a small fishing boat available.

Surfing or stand-up paddling is also not possible because the waves are said to be giant.

Of course, you can visit all the atolls. Interacting with the locals should be fun.

Usually, a cultural show is arranged by the islanders to entertain the tourists.

If you are looking to experience a true island experience, where there is no other connection with the world, then, seriously contemplate a trip.

How to reach Pukapuka?

Remember, you are going to the end of the world. So, expect some hardships.

Your first stop from wherever you are (preferably Australia, and New Zealand), should be Rarotonga Island, the largest of the 15 Cook Islands.

Incidentally, Rarotonga is the capital of the Cook Islands.

Once in a way (please inquire at Rarotonga airport), small flights go to Pukapuka from Rarotonga. The duration in the air will be around 5 hours! That is very slow to cover just 1,140 km!

Only a maximum of 15 passengers can board the flight. I am sure, you have to find a way to buy a sea in advance.

The small plane lands at a small airstrip in Pukapuka.

Sea Passage:

Please don’t dream of a voyage to Pukapuka from Rarotonga. I read you can get on board a merchant navy ship but, you will be at sea for nearly a week!

Do you want that?

Any chance of visiting another island nearby?

Yes, you can go to Nassau Island. It is 85 km away from Pukapuka. Your boat will go in the southern direction.

Another island that is close to Pukapuka is Suwarrow. No one lives there except some aquatic birds.

Remember to visit the beautiful island called Palmerston.

Merchant Navy ships are willing to take you to these remote islands. Cruise ships are another option for transportation.

There is a small harbor in Wale Islet. It can accommodate the above-mentioned vessels.

What can you eat and drink?

Don’t expect to sit in a sea-view restaurant. Only home-cooked food will be available.

Seafood naturally is the staple.. Apart from myriad fish varieties, shellfish, and clams are the locals’ staple.

As far as vegetables and fruits, you can expect banana, breadfruit, coconut, and taro.

Rice may be available. I think the locals go to Rarotonga to buy rice. Rarotonga Island, in turn, imports rice from New Zealand and sells through local supermarkets.

If you are used to drinking beer daily, you can buy from Rarotonga before you leave for Pukapuka.

Cook Island’s Lager is widely available on Rarotonga Island. You are likely to get Heineken beer also there.

Accommodation and Transport.

There are hotels, motels, and inns. The only option is to stay with the locals. They stay in thatched roof huts.

Be with them, eat what they give, and drink only water.

How to move around the islets?

Walk. It is a very small island. Some residents might have scooters. They rent it out to tourists.

Wildlife sighting:

There are some interesting birds to look out for on the island. I thought you would find the beautiful blue-footed booby or the cute Puffins but no.

The large Frigatebirds can be spotted.

As far as the marine creatures, the scary-looking ‘coconut crabs’ are easily seen on the beach.

When is the best time to visit the Pukapuka island?

I think you can go there anytime, except in January and February. It rains at the beginning of the year.

Climate:

It is usually warm. The maximum temperature will only hover around 29°C.

Who administers the island?

There is a Council of Chiefs. He lives in Wale.

Considering the facts, Pukapuka Island should be treated as a pure island escape. Internet accessibility is almost nil.

Just go to the end of the world, stay for a night, and return to Rarotonga Island.