Highland Paradise Cultural Tour

OVERVIEW

Explore the culture, traditions, people and history of the Cook Islands during this scenic and informative visit to the Highland Paradise Cultural Village. Depart the pier with your guide, a Cook Islands' warrior, for the drive to the Highland Paradise Cultural Village located on Mangaroa Mountain. This 500 year old village was once lost in time and taken over by the surrounding jungle, but has since been rediscovered and opened to visitors. En route to this 200 acre site, your guide will inform you about the lives of the native Cook Islanders prior to the arrival of the missionaries. Upon arrival at the village, you will begin your immersion into the local culture by learning about the spiritual marae and voyaging skills of the island's forefathers. Here, you will view perfect replicas of village houses as they once stood, along with sacred placs of worship, where battles were fought and the site of human sacrifices. You will also see the High Chief's rock throne and canoe navigator's compass rock along with discovering how important the coconut tree is, the many ways of tying the colorful pareu and how to make flower garlands. You will also have the opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine and tropical fruit.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel to a mountain village lost in the jungle for centuries, now rediscovered and brought back to life
• Travel with a Cook Island warrior/guide and meet the descendants of the village’s original High Chief.
• View perfectly replicated village homes, maraes where worship took place, the Chief’s rock throne and spots where fierce battles and human sacrifices happened.
• Witness a sacred ceremony, taste the local food, discover a dozen good uses for coconuts, and get some sarong-tying practice in.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.