Cool pool
Below the falls.
ogwen — CC BY-SA 3.0 · JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Bob Linsdell — CC BY 3.0 · Bob Linsdell — CC BY 3.0
Papua Falls, also known as Wigmore's Waterfall, is a small waterfall in the tropical forest of southern Rarotonga, about 5.4 km in a straight line south of the capital, Avarua. It marks the end of the Cross-Island Track coming down from Te Rua Manga. The water drops down a moss- and plant-covered wall of volcanic rock into a small pool ringed by rocks and dense trees. It runs strongest after rain and can slow to a trickle in dry months, and below it the stream flows between smooth rocks in a shady valley. Many visitors reach the falls at the end of the cross-island hike and cool off with a swim in the pool. It can also be reached by a short path from the south coast road without climbing the mountain, making it an easy outing for those who skip the long track. The visit is free. The rocks around the pool are slippery, so take care getting into the water; bring mosquito repellent, and the falls look best after rain.
Below the falls.
Deep shade.
From the coast road.
Southern Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Yes, by a short path from the south road.
Yes, in its small pool.
