TONGATAPU
Tongatapu – ‘Sacred South’ – is the southern starting point for visitors exploring the Kingdom of Tonga.
Expect a warm welcome at one of the world’s most easy-going international airports before journeying north across the island to the Tongan capital of Nuku’alofa. The harbour-side town is the centre of Tongan commerce and government and also the residence of the Royal Family in the South Pacific’s only monarchy. Around 70,000 people live on Tongatapu, and Nuku’alofa – ‘Abode of Love’ – is a vibrant introduction to the Kingdom. Ferryboats and trading ships dot Nuku’alofa Harbour, preparing to venture to the far-flung Vava’u, Ha’apai and Niuas island groups to the north.
Nuku’alofa’s Talamahu market is a proudly local affair, selling fresh tropical produce and authentic Tongan arts and crafts. On Sundays, the churches of Tongatapu glow with soaring harmonies and a warm welcome to visitors.
Ancient Tongan history includes the fascinating 11th century AD Ha’amonga ‘a Maui trilithon and the ancient Langi (terraced tombs) of the Tongan kings. More recent are the Tongatapu landing sites of Abel Tasman and Captain James Cook and on Nuku’alofa’s waterfront you’ll find the elegant Royal Palace.Offshore island resorts effortlessly combine the rustic with the romantic. The ‘Anahulu Caves and the Mapua ‘a Vaea blowholes present Tongatapu’s more rugged natural beauty.
VAVA’U
Welcome to the adventure hub of the Kingdom of Tonga.
An azure tropical paradise of 61 different islands dotted with coral gardens, deserted beaches and shimmering clear lagoons, the northern Vava’u group offers a range of ‘Must Do’ activities in Tonga.
From June to November share Vava’u’s warm waters with gentle Humpback whales, harnessing the islands’ sustaining environment to care for their newly-born calves and breed for another generation.
Take advantage of Vava’u’s worldwide reputation as a superbly sheltered yachting playground. Explore hidden coves and atolls with a friendly local skipper or take charge yourself to make the most of Tonga’s steady trade winds. Accept the challenge of a game fishing expedition, catching or tagging the mighty blue marlin and other impressive species. Below the waves, Vava’u’s beauty shines, with crystal visibility of up to 30 metres illuminating remote sea caves and history-laden shipwrecks. Many snorkelling locations make exploring Vavau’s underwater majesty accessible for visitors of all abilities.
After all these authentic Polynesian adventures, relax and recharge in Neifau’s cafes and restaurants and make plans for the rest of your stay. Ultimately, it will be tough to choose from Vava’u’s extended adventure menu, including jet kayaking, sea kayaking and kite boarding.
HA’APAI
Uncrowded, unhurried and undiscovered.
Well off the beaten path for visitors, the 62 scattered islands, atolls, reefs and shoals of the central island group of Ha’apai are an undeniably authentic slice of Polynesia.
Looming volcanic islands, warming trade winds and pristine atolls lapped by gentle waters provide a superb tropical backdrop for more adventurous travellers. Experience Tonga’s easy-going hospitality in remote boutique eco lodges or village guesthouses, before effortlessly filling another relaxed day with sea kayaking, snorkeling or horse riding along white sandy beaches.
During his Pacific journeys, Captain James Cook named the Kingdom of Tonga ‘The Friendly Islands’ after a warm reception on the Ha’apai island of Lifuka.
On the 28th April, 1789 Mutiny on the Bounty took place between the shores of Lifuka and Tofua in Ha’apai. Fletcher Christian who was appointed as a master’s mate on the HMS Bounty seized command of the ship from Captain William Bligh.
More than three centuries later, the welcome to 21st-century Pacific explorers is equally amicable, and local guides are keen to direct visitors to relaxation Ha’apai-style. That means more difficult island-style choices between whale watching, diving or sailing. Just take it easy, don’t hurry, and slow right down to ‘island time’.
‘EUA
‘Eua’s combination of breathtaking beauty and rugged landscapes make it the perfect destination for travellers in search of adventure and eco experiences.
A qucik seven-minute flight links Tongatapu to the island of ‘Eua on its southeastern tip, one of the world’s shortest commercial airline flight. Geographically ‘Eua is the Kingdom’s oldest island, covered with hills and lush rainforest,. Look forward to the Kingdom’s best hiking with well-marked trails criss-crossing the pristine ‘Eua National Park.
Experience the spectacular cliffs, caves and sinkholes of northern ‘Eua or venture to the rocky southern coastline. Watch sea birds soaring atop the thermal currents swirling around ‘Eua’s dramatic cliffs or descend through lush rainforest to the ocean below. Keep an ear open for the call of the Koki, ‘Eua’s rare red-breasted shining parrot.
Markedly larger wildlife includes visiting Humpback whales from June to November, often cruising remarkably close to ‘Eua’s rocky shoreline. For divers, ‘Eua’s most spectacular highlight is one of the Pacific’s largest underwater caverns. It is naturally, illuminating a huge amphitheatre at a depth of almost 30 metres.
