Country's codes
International phone code for Cocos Islands: +61
3 letters: CCK
2 letters (internet domain): .CC
Digital country code: 166
Standard EAN-13 (country barcode): n/a
Olympic country code: n/a
Cocos (Keeling) Islands: A Tropical Escape with Cultural Charm
Travel Tips for Tourists
• Getting There:
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are accessible via flights from Perth, Australia, operated by Virgin Australia. The main airport is located on West Island, which serves as the administrative center. Travel between the two inhabited islands—West Island and Home Island—is possible by ferry.
• Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when humidity is lower and the southeast trade winds bring pleasant weather. The wet season, from November to April, can bring tropical cyclones and heavy rainfall.
• Top Attractions:
- Cocos Lagoon: Ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and spotting marine life.
- Direction Island: A pristine beach destination accessible by ferry, perfect for picnics and swimming.
- Pulu Keeling National Park: Located on North Keeling Island, this protected area is home to rare bird species and vibrant coral reefs.
- Home Island Cultural Tour: Offers insight into the traditions of the Cocos Malay community.
- Kite Surfing and Diving: The islands are known for excellent conditions for water sports.
• Healthy Travel Advice:
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection—the tropical sun can be intense.
- Pack insect repellent for outdoor activities.
- Bring essential medications—local healthcare is limited, and supplies may not be readily available.
- Respect local customs, especially on Home Island, where the community practices Sunni Islam.
- Stay active—explore the islands by bike or on foot to enjoy the natural beauty.
A Glimpse into Cocos (Keeling) Islands’ History
The islands were first sighted by British Captain William Keeling in 1609, and named for their abundant coconut trees. In the early 19th century, Scottish trader John Clunies-Ross established a settlement and brought in Malay workers to run copra plantations. His family ruled the islands in a feudal style for nearly 150 years.
The British annexed the islands in 1857, and they were administered from Ceylon and later Singapore. In 1955, the islands were transferred to Australian sovereignty, and in 1978, Australia purchased all land held by the Clunies-Ross family, ending their control. A 1984 referendum led to full integration with Australia, and Western Australian laws have applied since 1992.
Current Political Landscape
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are an external territory of Australia, administered by the federal government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts. The local Shire Council provides a degree of self-governance.
Public services such as healthcare, education, and policing are provided by Western Australia, and the islands use the Australian dollar. The population of around 600 people is split between ethnic Europeans on West Island and Cocos Malays on Home Island, who speak a dialect of Malay and practice Sunni Islam.
The islands are part of the Australian Indian Ocean Territories, along with Christmas Island, and maintain a peaceful, multicultural community with strong ties to both tradition and modern Australian governance.
Useful country information
Land area: 14 km2 (5.4 sq mi)
Population (20121 est.): 596
West Island is the capital city of Cocos Islands. The territory has a population of 596 people (2021).
West Island: Capital City Profile
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Important Numbers:
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What is the currency in use in the city of West Island? Australian dollar
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Background:
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a remote territory of Australia in the Indian Ocean. The territory consists of two atolls made up of 27 coral islands, of which only two – West Island and Home Island – are inhabited.
Source of Information:
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