Overview

Tonga is better known as the "friendly islands" and is an archipelago that is located in the South Pacific Ocean. The Kingdom of Tonga comprises of over 169 islands and lies to the south of Samoa. Basically three different island groups or regions make up Tonga. The first is Tongatapu, which is home to the capital Nuku'alofa. The second is Ha'apai, the least populated group of the islands. The third is Vava'u and, coupled with Neiafu, is a popular destination for yachting enthusiasts.

Tonga was united to become a Polynesian kingdom for the first time in 1845. It became a constitutional monarchy 30 years later in 1875, and then became a British protectorate 15 years later in 1900. Tonga finally acquired independence in the year 1970 and became a part of the Commonwealth of Nations. As of today, Tonga is the only region in the Pacific which functions as a constitutional monarchy.

Activities & Attractions

There is plenty to do and see in Tonga. Lying on its western tip is the island's most well-liked beach at Ha'atafu. The beach by itself is a great place to enjoy a stroll, swim, and snorkel. The snorkeling and diving adventures offered in Tonga are far superior as compared to many other exotic locales. Whale-watching in Tonga is one of the most exciting pastimes. There are many visitors whose trip to the island is centered on this whale-watching activity. Humpback whales migrate to the region of Vava'u between the months of June and October and this is one of the best times you can catch a glimpse of them in their natural environment. If you are not content with observing the whales from coastal vantage points you can very well set out on a whale-watching boat tour. There are plenty of day trips, hiking excursions, and tours which offer visitors a chance to experience the well-preserved beauty that Tonga has managed to retain throughout the years.

The main island Tongatapu is home to the "Stonehenge of the South Pacific." Three colossal limestone slabs make up this imposing trilithon of Ha'amonga 'A Maui. In addition to the trilithion, the main island of Tongapatu offers visitors a couple of other impressing archaeological sites. The virgin rainforest that enfolds the island is home to a rich and diverse bird life. The coastline also boasts of the most remarkable collection of blowholes in the entire South Pacific region.

Lodging

Tonga remains vibrant and sparks with liveliness until around 11 pm. There are numerous lodging options in the bigger city areas such as Nuku'Alofa, allowing you to enjoy the area's serene atmosphere after it turns quiet all of a sudden past 11 pm. If you are looking for a comfortable stay that keeps you close to a good church for Sunday worship, then the Sails Lodge is a good option.

Transportation

In order to shuttle between the different island groups, your options are either to fly or to charter a yacht. The main airline that operates between the different islands is the Chathams Pacific Airlines. In order to travel around on the main island Tongatapu, there are day tours offered by many companies including Teta Tours as well as Toni's Guest House. You can also hire a car at the Friend's Tourist Center. It costs around only 50 Pa'anga. There are not many road signs on the islands implying that having a roadmap is vital. The roads are good in some of the larger cities but they do deteriorate when you move further south. To rent a car you will be asked to buy a Tongan driving license which costs you another 25 Pa'anga.