Wigmore's Waterfall: Rarotonga's Lush Oasis
Discover Rarotonga's hidden gem: Wigmore's Waterfall, a serene escape offering lush scenery and a refreshing swimming experience.
Escape to Wigmore's Waterfall, also known as Papua Waterfall, a serene spot nestled in Rarotonga's Takitumu District. This hidden gem offers a refreshing swimming lake surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of cascading water, perfect for a peaceful retreat into nature.
A brief summary to Wigmore's Waterfall
- P6W6+GWX, Takitumu District, Vaimaanga Tapere, CK
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
- Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, especially during humid weather.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially muddy trails.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water and soak in the beautiful surroundings.
- Check the waterfall's flow before visiting, as it can be reduced to a trickle in the dry season.
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus from Avarua heading towards the Takitumu District. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Wigmore's Waterfall. From the main road, follow the signs towards Wigmore's Waterfall, a 10-15 minute walk down a path into the forest. The bus fare is NZ$5 for a one-way trip.
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Taxi
Taxis are available 24/7 on Rarotonga. A taxi from Avarua to Wigmore's Waterfall will cost approximately NZ$27, as taxi fares are NZ$3 per kilometer with a minimum day fare of NZ$10. Several taxi services operate on the island, including Dorothy's Taxi and AJ Taxi Services.
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Car/Scooter
From Avarua, head southeast on Ara Tapu (the main road) towards the Takitumu District. Turn onto the road leading to Wigmore's Waterfall. Drive to the end of Papua Road. Note that the dirt road is in bad condition and suitable for 4WD or SUVs only. There may be an entry fee of around NZ$2 for scooters and NZ$5 for cars/trucks.
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Walking
From Vaimaanga, walk towards the main road (Ara Tapu). Head towards the junction leading to Wigmore's Waterfall, and follow the path that veers off to the right. Follow the trail through the tropical forest. The walk from the main road to the waterfall is approximately 15-20 minutes.
Discover more about Wigmore's Waterfall
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