The Best Travel Guide to Tonga (UPDATED 2024) | ArrivalGuides.com

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Tonga

Tonga

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Overview

Tonga The guide was updated: 2024-08-23

In the very heart of the South Pacific lies Tonga, one of the most scenic and unspoiled of the Pacific Island nations, comprising 176 coral and volcanic islands, only 36 of which are inhabited. The ancient Kingdom of Tonga is known for being the oldest and last remaining Polynesian monarchy. Its friendly and welcoming people, along with deserted beaches, enchanting festivals and amazing coral reefs, are all some of the Kingdom's finest assets.

Facts

Population:	108,683 (2024)
Currency:	Tongan pa'anga (T$) 1/100 = seniti (cents)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Medical: 933 Fire: 999 Police: 922
Newspapers:	Matangitonga (online newspaper): www.matangitonga.to Tonga News: www.talanoaotonga.to
Website:	www.thekingdomoftonga.com tongatourism.travel
Opening hours:	Most shops are open from Monday to Friday 8:30am–4:30pm, Saturday 9am–1pm. Almost everything is closed on Sundays.
Tourist information:	Tonga Visitors Bureau Vuna Road, Nuku’alofa, Tonga +676 25 334 Friends Tourist Centre Taufa'ahau Road, Nuku'alofa +676 27 323

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Section in Tonga

For travellers, the array of unique settings provides experiences suited for every taste and budget. There are isolated white sandy beaches for soaking in the sun and taking life easy, dense rain forests teaming with exotic flora and fauna to tempt adventurers and naturalists, and a magnificent colourful underwater playground where striking tropical fish dart in and out of incredible coral structures.

Diving & Snorkelling

Diving & Snorkelling

Surrounded by coral gardens and with the water so clear in places you can see 40 metres down, the islands of Tonga offer premium diving and snorkelling experiences. Swim inside the Swallows Cave and dive into Mariners Cave from the island of Vava'u. From Ha'apai, view captivating marine life and colourful corals. Discover the "The Green Wall" of Ha'ano Islands — a long drop-off that plunges towards the great Tongan trench.

Anahulu Cave — the Underground Swimming Pool

Anahulu Cave — the Underground Swimming Pool

Explore the mysterious cave at Anahulu and dive into its freshwater pool. This unique place holds wonders for visitors and you can discover what's below the surface by joining a scuba dive tour or snorkelling.

Mapu ’a Vaea — 'Whistle of the Noble'

Mapu ’a Vaea — 'Whistle of the Noble'

The amazing Mapu’a Vaea blowholes extend for 5 kilometres along the south shore on Tongatapu. Their name means "Chief's Whistles", and you can see the water forced through the natural vents in the coral limestone cliffs sometimes up to 30 metres in height.

Tongatapu Island Tour

Tongatapu Island Tour

Join a Tongatapu Island Tour to see the Royal Palace, Royal Tombs, the blowholes, flying foxes and, on the western side of the island, the enthralling Ha’amonga Trilithon, the Stonehenge of the South Pacific and the ancient capital of Mu’a with its fascinating Terrace Tombs on the East.

ʻEua National Park

ʻEua National Park

The National Park on ‘Eua offers one of the best walks in the South Pacific. Hike through pristine forests, rugged coastlines, caves, chasms, and waterfalls, with panoramic views along the way. Listen for the distinctive cry of the ‘koki, the red-breasted musk parrot, unique to ‘Eua. This 7-hour trek is perfect for fit nature lovers and adventurers, but it’s not recommended for children under 12. A guide is essential. You can reach ‘Eua by a two-hour ferry from Nuku’alofa or an 8-minute flight.

Tofua Island

Tofua Island

For a real adventure, travel to the island of Tofua and go on a hike. There is a remote volcano, where, with planning, you can camp in its crater. Since it is really difficult to get to this oval-shaped volcanic island without owning a boat, it is highly recommended to book an organised tour in advance.

Whale Watching

Whale Watching

From June to November, hundreds of humpback whales call the warm waters surrounding the islands of Tonga home. The islands of Vava’u have particularly large numbers of whales utilising the area as a nursery. Many tours operate boats for closer viewing.

Royal Tombs

Royal Tombs

You can visit the final resting place of Tonga's royalty at this site. While you can only see the tombs from a good distance, it's worth visiting the area as there is also a small church and park nearby.

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