A visit to the Cook Islands is not complete without seeing the beautiful island of Aitutaki. The breathtaking allure of its crystal clear turquoise waters and sparkling white beaches is an essential ingredient in any Cook Island holiday. It is a place of unsurpassed natural beauty and tranquility, providing a simple tonic to sooth away the pressures of the outside world. Aitutaki is 220 kilometers north of Rarotonga and less than an hour's flight away. It is partly volcanic and partly of atoll origin. Its highest hill, Maungapu is said to be the top of Rarotonga's Raemaru Peak, brought back by victorious warriors. The spectacular lagoon (45 kilometers around) is abundant with colored fish of many varieties, its perimeter sprinkled with many small and charming uninhabited islands. Visitors who stay should set their watches to "island time". In this laid-back atmosphere they will find a variety of accommodation facilities, an assortment of different shops scattered throughout the villages and a number of restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.