T Villa2025-04-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing Hike to Te Rua Manga with Bruce from Maunga Tours We recently had the pleasure of hiking to The Needle (Te Rua Manga) with Bruce from Maunga Tours while visiting Rarotonga—and it was hands down one of the highlights of our trip. Initially, we planned to do the hike on our own, but it was strongly recommended that we hire a guide. Once on the trail I saw why it was important to not attempt this on our own. The recent rain made this trail treacherous in some areas, requiring using ropes as hand holds to navigate the steep and very slippery trails. We would have quit midway and come home disappointed if not for Bruce guiding the way. From the start, Bruce was welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the island, its culture, and the land. The hike itself is absolutely stunning—lush jungle, dramatic terrain, and of course, the incredible views from the top. But what really made it special was having Bruce guide us. He shared fascinating stories and local insights that we never would’ve gotten on our own, pointing out plants, explaining local traditions, and making sure we felt safe and comfortable every step of the way. The trail can be challenging in parts, but with Bruce’s calm, confident guidance, we felt in good hands the whole time. He even took some amazing photos for us at the summit—definitely a memory we’ll keep forever. BTW, his wife makes an awesome Tuna sandwich! That was a very welcome treat at the end of the trail. Highly recommend Maunga Tours if you’re visiting Rarotonga and want an authentic, unforgettable experience hiking to Te Rua Manga. Thank you, Bruce! Erika Jonsson2025-04-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My family of four completed the Cross Island Trek with Bruce recently and, in doing so, ticked off a bucket list item and created incredible memories. Bruce is a knowledgeable and patient guide, and helped everyone feel supported even when things were a bit slippery - that was a great part of the adventure! My kids are 14 and 10 and had a blast. A swim at the waterfall at the end of the hike was the perfect way to finish, and we went back separately to do it again! Meitaki ma’ata, Bruce - see you next time! Gina Sansom2025-04-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. BEYOND EXCELLENT!!!!!! Bruce was a perfect guide! He gave us so much knowledge about the area and really cares. He even loaned me some shoes because mine were insufficient. This was a challenging hike, but so rewarding and worth it. Definitely hire Bruce if you don't know the path because you'll likely get lost going on your own. We have a photo of at the summit and I haven't seen my husband smile this big in years. Excellent! Probably the best part of our 3 week Cook Islands trip!!!! Thank you Bruce!! Luke Van der Hor2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good. Sophie Glassel2025-03-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A spectacular activity for those looking to challenge themselves. The tour, guidance and commitment that Bruce provides is exceptional. Bruce’s passion and knowledge for the Trek and the land is a delight and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the trek with the comfort of guidance and support. An early start makes for a rewarding midday finish, with a very convenient pick up and drop off provided from/to your accommodation. Refreshments of fruit and sandwiches (carefully prepared for you) are provided, and you’ll need plenty of water, sturdy shoes and definitely a camera to capture the view. It’s a challenging and unique hike but truly very rewarding experience! Thanks Bruce! Mily Carrillo2025-03-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Oh waoooo!!! Amazing experience to discover the soil of Raorotonga. Because even when the sea get all you attention you can deny the beauty of the magic mountains of Rarotonga… The landscape is absolutely incredible. The weather was beautiful and even the rain make everything more than perfect, the hiking was challenging and easy, refreshment and sandwich from Bruce’s wife were tasty, amazing group and company and the best guide ever, Bruce… experienced and connect person with the mountain to share Rarontongan life stile. Deborah Wixted2025-01-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was admittedly in two minds about doing this trek as it seemed like it would be overly strenuous and challenging and maybe not the ideal activity for a 57 year old mum looking for a relaxing holiday. I needn’t have worried - some parts were indeed hard work but with Bruce’s guidance up the initial steep but ultimately not too long climb (really like walking up a very steep set of slippery stairs made of tree roots and mud!!) it was manageable and magnificent. I did pike out on the extra climb up The Needle but very happily sent my only child (18 year old daughter) up there - her verdict was “scary but great”! Getting to see up close the natural Rarotonga landscape and sensational views over the island, wildlife and a swim in the waterfall at the end was worth the muddy shoes and sore muscles the next day. I’m so very glad I did this - it’s a definite highlight of our stay in the Cook Islands. You will need both hands as well as your legs for this trek, so recommend you have a backpack or similar for waterbottles etc. Easy to book and the relatively early start is made more manageable by pickup from our villa. Great sandwiches at the end! David Havercroft2024-12-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Brilliant experience and Bruce is a truly amazing guide Chris Barnes2024-12-17Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Bruce is an excellent guide, so friendly and chill but a total pro. He told us a lot about the local plants and animals and history as we went along. And he was very patient and encouraging with me as I puffed my way up and down the mountains. It's a challenging walk and I was proud to have managed it. Viliyan Tsvetanov2024-12-13Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A great experience. The trail is challenging but very rewarding. Bruce, our guide, was fantastic and provided lots of information.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. 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Embark on a fully-guided mountain hike across Rarotonga on the world famous Pa’s Cross Island trek in the safe hands of your experienced local guides. Learn about the flora and fauna, the medicinal benefits and history of the Cook Islands. See the raw natural beauty of our mountains with local experts.
Free cancellation
Duration 3-4 hours
Suitable for all ages
Pa’s Cross Island hike begins in Avatiu valley with a briefing from your local guide before you embark on the climb to Te Rua Manga aka Neddle Rock. The climb itself is steep and on rough terrain. Enjoy engaging commentary from your guide about a range of unique and rare species you’ll encounter. There are fantastic views along the way and at the summit so don’t forget to bring your camera.
At the summit (Needle Rock) you’ll enjoy fresh tropical fruit while taking in the beautiful views on offer. You’ll also have the opportunity to climb 20m up Needle Rock using fixed chains and ropes to the north lookout (optional).
From the Needle Rock you’ll head down the south along a ridge then through Papua valley crossing streams and finally finishing at Papua Waterfall, swimming is optional so bring a towel if you wish to take a dip in the cool refreshing stream before having your lunch. This then concludes your tour where you’ll be returned to your accommodation to enjoy the rest of your holiday. A must do when visiting Rarotonga.
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