Oceania
Is Cook Islands safe?
—No US advisory
Is Cook Islands safe?
Very safe; crime is low and mostly opportunistic theft from beaches, scooters and unlocked rooms. Scooter crashes, reef rips and dogs are the main risks.
Key facts
- Emergency numbers: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 996 · All emergencies 999.
- Solo women: Safe for solo women with normal care; avoid isolated beaches at night.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Scooter crashes, a leading cause of visitor injuries
- Rips at reef passages; no lifeguards
- Aggressive dog packs on Rarotonga
- Cyclones November–April
Laws visitors break by accident
- Riding a scooter needs a motorbike licence or a local test
- Drug penalties are severe, even for small amounts
- Controlled medicines (strong painkillers, ADHD drugs) need advance approval
Safety by place in Cook Islands
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Rarotonga | 5/5 · Very safe |
Quick answers
Is Cook Islands safe for tourists?
Very safe; crime is low and mostly opportunistic theft from beaches, scooters and unlocked rooms. Scooter crashes, reef rips and dogs are the main risks.
Is Cook Islands safe for solo female travelers?
Safe for solo women with normal care; avoid isolated beaches at night.
What is the emergency number in Cook Islands?
Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 996 · All emergencies 999.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration
- Cook Islands Tourism
- Smartraveller: Cook Islands
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.