Mauke is one of the three small islands — along with Mitiaro and Atiu — that form the southern Cook Islands' inner cluster. Like its neighbours, it is ringed by makatea (raised limestone), giving it a rugged coastal character but limiting beach access. The interior is fertile, growing arrowroot, citrus, and taro.
The island has a small population living in three villages: Ngatiarua, Areora, and Kimiangatau. The main attraction for the few visitors who come is the Divided Church in Areora, a striking building split down the middle — the two halves built separately by rival villages who later agreed to share the space. Beyond the church, the makatea coast is honeycombed with freshwater karst caves — Vaitaongo and Motuanga are the two you can swim in.
Mauke is connected to Rarotonga by Air Rarotonga flights a few times per week. Accommodation is limited to small guesthouses; meals are provided by your hosts.