Finally, someone has designed a way to get to the top of the highest mountain on Aitutaki without breaking a sweat. This tour is more than just a means of reaching the top without hard work. It is an opportunity to get to some of Aitutaki's best kept secret spots - places where no one else goes to. Even for locals living on Aitutaki, places like the Poatu o Rae ( the rock of Rae) and the Marae Are Mango - the house of Sharks; these are places that most locals only hear about and never actually visit. Its is places like these in olden day societies, that moulded what Aitutaki is today.

This tour offers the opportunity to discover the history of this beautiful island. Visit the ancient sacred grounds or marae ~ Are Mango where ancient rituals and sacrifices where performed. Hear of how ancient Polynesian warriors defended their island with the help of supernatural beings. And of how warriors of old voyaged long distances to experience the music and drums of the Are Karioi ~ the House of Entertainment where the "Yuppies" of Polynesia gathered for what was reported a marathon of dancing and courtship. Today remnants of a this exciting bygone era still remains for all to see. Some sites are difficult to get to but well worth the effort.

Depart from the Wharf and head towards the coastal village of Nikaupara. Stop briefly at Vainamu, a fresh water pond once used as a gathering place by the young people of the island. Continue along to the inland village of Tautu stopping at the ancient temple grounds of Are Mango and the Poatu o Rae - the ancient throne of Rae. Rae was reputed to be the strongest man on Aitutaki. Your guide will tell of his legends.

After a short drive through plantations, your tour will head towards the top of Mount Piraki where you will see some of the best views of the coastal village of Amuri and Arutanga. At the top, you will see the remnants of a World War 2 bunker built by the Americans during their time on the island. From Piraki, you will head across to the highest peak on the island - Maunga Pu. The drive to the very top is exhilarating and the view that awaits you at the top is breathtaking. A panoramic view of the island and its magnificent lagoon.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes, protect yourself from the sun and bring insect repellent.

The tour passes through all seven of the villages on the way visiting a Marae site as well as passing through plantations of the various crops grown here on Aitutaki. Of interest on the tour are traditional wells and washing sites, beautiful coral and limestone churches, myths and legends about certain places visited and lovely views of the lagoon from the eastern side of the island.

This tour gives you the opportunity to experience the best Aitutaki has to offer in the short time available during your visit. Aitutaki's deep blue lagoon is considered to be one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Part volcanic and part atoll, the islands geographical structure makes this lagoon unique.

Board your boat (types and sizes vary) and cruise through the lagoon visiting the offshore motus. Pass by Motu Akaiami, which was once used as a refueling stop for the Flying Boats back in the 1950s. At One Foot Island, stop for lunch of BBQ fish, salads, fresh fruit . After lunch you will have approximately 2 hours to relax and snorkel.

Please note: Wear your swimsuit under a cover up, protect yourself from the sun and bring a towel from the ship. Bring snorkeling equipment from the ship (available on Paul Gauguin only) and wear reef shoes. This boat tour involves a wet landing. Lunch includes choice of water or orange juice only. There is a cash bar on the island for those who wish to purchase beverages. Guests wishing to obtain an "One Foot Island" stamp should bring their passport with them. There is a fee of USD 2 for the stamp.

You will board small boats each seating 10 guests and travel to Motu Marina where you can snorkel and those that wish have the option of visiting the motu. It takes approximately 15 minutes to travel each way, as the boats are very quick. This area has beautiful giant clams and is a marine reserve and is a nesting area of the red tailed tropic birds.

Please note: Wear your swimsuit under a cover up, protect yourself from the sun and bring a towel from the ship. Bring snorkeling equipment from the ship (available on Paul Gauguin only) and wear reef shoes for swimming. This tour involves a wet landing. There are no restroom stops on this tour.