Cocos Islands

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Quick Facts

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Capital

West Island

Government

Territory of Australia

Nationality

Cocos Islander

Population

630

Languages

Malay, English

Religions

Islam (Sunni)

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Calling Code

+61

Time Zone

UTC+6.5

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Introduction

Not to be mistaken for a popular diving destination in the Pacific, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands are an Australian territory southwest of Sumatra. They consist of two sun-drenched atolls encompassing 27 coral islands. Though they are a relatively undiscovered destination amongst tourists (and quite hard to get to), the trip is more than worth it for those who have "Undisturbed peace" listed as a major criteria for their next holiday destination. Whether you keep it simple by the beach, take a plunge into the Indian Ocean, or enjoy the unique Malay culture, you will rarely see another photo-taking tourist. You may find yourself accompanied by bird lovers, though: Pulu Keeling National Park is a phenomenal adventure park for those who love winged creatures, or those who like being adorned with bird droppings.

Brief History

Geography

Regions/Islands

• West Island - The capital
• Direction Island
• Home Island
• Horsburgh Island
• North Keeling Island
• South Island

Cities

Sights and Activities

Pulu Keeling National Park

Pulu Keeling National Park is a marine national park off the coast of North Keeling Island. The park has a rich biodiversity and to add has some ship wrecks to explore by divers as well. These include the remains of the infamous German Raider, the SMS Emden which was sent to destroy the Cable Station on Direction Island in November 1914. Due to its fragile environment, public access is only permitted in the company of guides or licensed tour operators which makes visiting either time consuming or expensive. Still it is worth it if you have both.

Home Island

Probably the most popular island to travel around and go relaxing, swimming, snorkelling, fishing, diving or just hop from one island to the other if you like to explore the nearby islands as well. Here you can joing cultural tours as well.

Meet the locals

The Cocos Islands people originally are predominantly Malay. Still, also Chinese, Papuan and Indian people settled themselves here, and even a few African people. Nowadays, the Cocos Malay society and the focus of each individual's life is the Islamic religion but some cultural elements of the British traditions can be found in the culture as well.

Events and Festivals

Weather

Cocos Islands' weather is characterised by tropical conditions with not much variation regarding temperature, but rather a distinct dry and wet season. Humid conditions prevale but constant breezes make things bearable.
Temperatures range between 28 to 30 degrees Celcius during the day and 24-25 degrees at night throughout the year.
The wet season lasts from December to May, when tropical storms and cyclones are a real possibility. March and April usually are the wettest months. The dry period is from July to November, with the driest months from September onwards.

Getting There

By Plane

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands Airport is at West Island and there are two flights a week from Perth operated by National Jet Systems with an additional flight every fortnight or so. Some flights stop at Christmas Island as well, making travel between the two possible.

By Boat

The Cocos Islands are unfortunately not reached by boat. There are no harbors so even getting here on a yacht might give problems.

Getting Around

By Car

There are several car rental agencies at the airport and in West Island Settlement. Note that fuel is not always availabe. As distances are small and most area is flat, renting a bike is more affordable as well.

By Bus

There is a bus service on West Island Settlement that leaves about 20 minutes before the jetty leaves for some other islands. Other than that, your options are limited.

By Boat

Ferries travel between West Island, Home Island and sometimes Direction Island (Saturdays).

Red Tape

The same requirements apply as for Australia.

Money

See also Money Matters

The Cocos Islands use the Australian Dollar (AUD). Australian Dollar notes come in $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 and coins come in 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, $1 and $2.

Work

Study

Language

Eat

Sleep

Drink

Health

See also Travel Health

Safety

See also Travel Safety

Keep Connected

Internet

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

Post

External Links

• Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands - Official government website
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands Tourism Association - Official tourism website