Tonga

Malo e leiei! Even humpback whales choose the spectacularly beautiful Kingdom of Tonga for their annual holidays. From June to November each year, these whales cruise the calm warm waters of Vava'u providing opportunities for a close encounter with one of the world's most magnificent creatures. You too will appreciate Tonga's stunning beaches and lagoons with crystal clear waters providing excellent visibility down to 30 metres for diving and snorkelling.

Its resorts act as gateways to world-class blue water sailing and cruising. This is also the place for surfing & kayaking and all types of fishing in some of the finest waters in the Pacific.

Tonga enjoys an enormous advantage over many of its Pacific neighbours. The kingdom was never colonised, enabling it to preserve its ancient Polynesian traditions and life. One of its most intriguing monuments, the 1,000-year-old, five metre high Ha'amonga Trilathon, is preserved at the National Historic Reserve.

The 171 islands of Tonga are ruled by King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV. They stretch like pearls across the Pacific for nearly 1,000 kilometres. They include the island of Tongatapu, home to around two thirds of Tongans in the major centre of Nuku'alofa, the gorgeous coral islands of the Ha'apai group; and the pristine waters, jungle covered islands and stunning white sandy beaches of the Vava'u archipelago.

At Kolovai village, 18km from Nuku'alofa, thousands of sacred flying foxes that may only be hunted by members of the Royal Family, cling to Casuarina trees. Closer to town, the Royal Tombs are the burial place of Tonga's kings and queens.

Tonga Fast Facts

Climate: Cooled by the gentle breezes of the South Pacific, Tonga enjoys wonderful weather. From April to September Tonga averages 24 degrees. Refreshing tropical rains can occur anytime, but December to March is the hot summer wet season. The water is always warm.

Time Zone: Tonga is 3 hours ahead of Australian EST.

Currency: Local currency is the Tongan dollar or Pa'anga 1AUD = 1.5TOP.

Languages: Tongan is the national language but English is widely spoken.

Vaccinations: No vaccinations are mandatory however consult your doctor before travelling.

Tipping: Tipping is not expected.

Electricity: 220 volts - same plug as Australia.

Departure Tax: A departure tax of TOP$25 is payable at the airport upon departure from Tonga.

Visa: Australian passport holders do not require a visa. Proof of onward travel is required.

The Tongan Experience

• Visit the Royale Palace, located on the seafront of Nuku'alofa.
• See the Royal Tombs at the burial place of Tongan royalty.
• Discover the stalactite and stalagmite caves on the coast 20kms from Nuku'alofa.
• Experience a Tongan feast with traditional music and dance, kava ceremonies &huge meals.
• Take a whale watching tour in the Vava'u islands (Apr - Oct) & watch the humpback whales that come to breed every year.
• Visit Mapu'a ‘a Vaca Blowholes - a 5km stretch of blowholes that spurt up to 30m high.