Penrhyn is home to a handful of people living on one of the largest atolls of the South Pacific. It is the northernmost island of the Cook Islands, close to the equator.
The deep mystical lagoon has three passages leading into the open ocean. The lagoon is teeming with marine life. Biologists postulate that still unknown ocean species lurk in its depths.
The locals call their home island Tongareva.
Here's a Free Handy Penryhn Infographic For You
Our infographic contains essential information for you to plan your visit.
We have prepared detailed infographics for each one of the Cook Islands islands. Visit the pages of the islands for their respective infographics.
Click below to download your high-resolution infographic.
Basic Info and Stats About Penrhyn in the Cook Islands
01.
Geography
Penrhyn forms part of the Cook Islands Northern Island Group.
02.
Getting There
It is 1,365 kilometers / 848 miles northeast of Rarotonga. It is the furthest island from Rarotonga, the capital. Occasional flights with Air Rarotonga, flight time about 4.5 hours. Alternatively, travel to by Ferry type boat that takes about a week but does not have a regular schedule.
03.
Size Of Penrhyn
The lagoon has a size of 233 kilometers2/ 90 miles2, and a total land area of 9.8 kilometers2/ 3.8 miles2. It is up to 70 meters/ 259 feet deep, with more than 30 Motus.
04.
Geology
Penrhyn is a coral atoll, at the top of a 4.800m / 15.748ft high underwater volcano. The huge lagoon is home to abundant marine life that is mostly undiscovered.
05.
Inhabitants & Tourist Numbers
It is home to about 226 people.
Only a handful of tourists visit the atoll annually.
Penrhyn Offers Visitors the Basic Essentials to enjoy an Island Adventure
01.
Airport
Penrhyn has a sandy airstrip and small airport hut greet you on your arrival. The tiny airport only opens when the small passenger propeller plane arrives and departs.
02.
Transport
There is no public transport system. Your host organizes vehicles to explore the island.
03.
Tours
Lagoon trips and fishing expeditions, in the lagoon and ocean, are arranged through your host.
04.
Accomodation
Tongareva Sunset Units is the only guesthouse and can accommodate up to 4 people.
05.
Shopping & dining
There are no shops, restaurants, or pubs.
06.
Money
The island has no ATMs. Tip - Take enough cash with you.
07.
Medical
Medical care available.
3
Top Magical Adventures of Penrhyn in the Cook Islands
1 Explore the XXL Paradise
Just a handful live in Penrhyn with its massive lagoon of 233 km2. That leaves you the freedom to get to know paradise intimately.
The lagoon is so large that at many points, the opposite side is not visible. Locals are at the ready to take you on their little boats to explore the many Motus or dive the lagoon. The adventure options are limitless, as is your freedom here.
2 Experience the Mystical Lagoon
The dark blue lagoon is scattered with light spots of neon blue coral islands, which are just below the surface.
This lagoon is teaming with marine life, large and small. Sharks of all types can be seen very close to shore. It is a fascinating place to dive, snorkel, or even spearfishing with the locals.
Marine biologists have also begun researching the depths of the lagoon for unknown marine life.
3 Mingle with the friendly islanders
The Tongarevans are amazing people. Friendly, relaxed, helpful, and curious to learn about the world at that they do not know.
The local school loves to have foreign visitors around to share their knowledge. One always feels welcome, no matter where you may find yourself in the little village.
