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Welcome to the Ministry of Tourism Tonga Website

Located to the west of the International Dateline (South-East of Fiji and South of Samoa), Tonga is the first Pacific nation to greet the new day.

Tonga has dramatic & active volcanic landscapes, spectacular tropical rainforest, low-lying coral atolls, pristine coral reefs, magnificent sandy beaches and a unique and beautiful array of flora and fauna.

There is so much to see, do and experience when you visit Islands such as Tongatapu, Vava’u, Ha’apai and ‘Eua. Those seeking adventure can go scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, fishing, surfing, hiking, camping, kayaking, horse riding, sailing and much more. In addition to all of the activities, travelers can simply enjoy the gentle pace of our Island lifestyle, observe our authentic and timeless culture, participate in our daily rituals and experience the generosity and hospitality of our people.

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The Complete Travel Guide to Tonga 🐋 [2024]

How to plan the best trip to tonga.

Tonga : the only Kingdom of the South Pacific, a land rich in culture and history and waters richer still in marine life and dramatic seascapes. From gazing upon an ancient megalithic structure to hiking deep into the tropical forest to feeling your toes in the sand of an island’s idyllic beach; the islands are as diverse as they are beautiful. But anyone who knows anything about Tonga might have heard that it’s one of the very few places to have the life-changing and humbling experience of swimming with humpback whales. In a way, this steals the thunder of the incredible scuba diving and game fishing the waters also provide, making the country blissfully untouched outside of the whale season. But that’s Tonga.

How do you start planning a trip to these off-the-beaten-track South Pacific Islands? This complete travel guide to Tonga will go over the five island groups of the Kingdom and how you can start planning in your own unique travel style.

About Tonga

Location : Tonga is in the South Pacific in the continent of Oceania. Tonga is directly south of Samoa and two-thirds of the way between Hawaii and New Zealand . Find out more in  Where is Tonga Located?

Size : Tonga has a land area of 750 km² (290 mi²) scattered over 700,000 km² (270,000 mi²) of ocean.

Climate : Daily average temperature – 26 ° C (79 ° F), yearly average rainfall – 1,600 mm (63 in). Find out more in What is the Weather Like in Tonga?

Time zone : TST / GMT+13. Find out more in What is the Tonga Time Zone?

Population : 100,179. Find out more in  Who are the People of Tonga?

Languages : Tongan and English. Find out more in  The Guide to the Tongan Language .

How to Get to Tonga

What is the best way to get to Tonga? Tonga can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. The most popular way to get to Tonga is by international flight, so let’s start with that.

Flying to Tonga

Direct international flights to Tonga come from New Zealand , Australia , Fiji , Samoa and American Samoa . If you’re coming from further afield, connecting flights can be made in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji. See our guide,  Which Airlines Fly to Tonga? for more advice on flying to Tonga.

Most international arrivals land at  Fua’amotu International Airport  on the island of Tongatapu , 21 km (13 mi) from the nation’s capital, Nuku’alofa . A limited number of flights also arrive at  Lupepau’u International Airport  in Vava’u , about 10 km (6 mi) from Neiafu. Find out more about these airports and the best one to fly to in our guide, Tonga Arrival Airports: Which Airport to Fly into Tonga .

Cruises to Tonga

Tonga is on the itinerary of several South Pacific cruises from New Zealand , Australia and French Polynesia . There are two ports of call in Tonga, one in Nuku’alofa on Tongatapu and the other in Neiafu in Vava’u . Find out about which cruise liners have Tonga on their itinerary in the 10 Best Cruises That Visit Tonga .

Sailing to Tonga

Tonga is situated at the centre of a Transpacific journey between the US and New Zealand. The yachting season is between May and October. Learn about the sailing formalities and the ports of entry in The Sailing Guide to Tonga .

A Note on Customs Declarations

Tonga has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the country. Therefore, anyone arriving in Tonga has to declare any “risk items” they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Arriving in Tonga: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process  so you are prepared.

Check out our complete guide on  How to Get to Tonga for  even more tips on making your way to the islands of Tonga.

When to Visit Tonga

Tonga is a tropical country and experiences warm temperatures throughout the year. It has two distinct seasons, a dry season that is drier and cooler, and a wet season that is hot and humid. Learn much more about the weather and climate by month in our guide to the Tonga Weather, Seasons & Climate + Tonga Weather by Month .

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is also known as the winter season in Tonga, although many would not describe it as winter with temperatures around 19-29°C (66-84°F) . The rainfall per month is an average of 110 mm (3.9 in) . The dry season is also the time for whale swimming and the clearest visibility for scuba diving .

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season is hotter and more humid, with temperatures around 23-31°C (74-88°F) and an average monthly rainfall of 210 mm (8.3 in) . This is also Tonga’s cyclone season , which means there’s a risk of cyclones (but only a risk).

So when is the best time to travel to Tonga? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit Tonga , which dives deeper into the subject.

What to Pack for Tonga

The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for Tonga is to have a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for exploring Tonga’s towns and villages. A packing list for Tonga might look a little something like this:

• 4 Singlets/T-Shirts
• 2 Blouses/Shirts to cover the shoulders
• 2 Shorts/Skirts to or below the knee
• 1  Dress/Skirt  below the knee  for church/impress at dinner, going to town or villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as the sustainable bamboo dresses and skirts by  Moso Morrow
• 1 Sarong (Lavalava) will be your best friend for hitting the beach and covering your swimwear in between swimming
• 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies
• 1 Light jacket/Cardigan/Pashmina for cooler evenings
• 1 Light fleece jumper something to keep warm after swimming from a boat
• 1 Sports shorts/Leggings for hiking/active activities, preferable to or below the knee
• 1 Sports T-shirt/Singlet for hiking/active activities
• 1 Outfit to travel between Tonga and home
• 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfortable bras
• 6 Underwear
• 1 Bikini for resort beach/pool
• 1 One-piece for watersports
• 2 Boardshorts for guys
• 1 Rash vest (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies)
• Flip-flops/Sandals
• Walking shoes/Sneakers
• Reef shoes/Water shoes .

And that’s just the clothes! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out The Complete Packing List for Tonga .

Health Products

With questionable drinking water, high UV levels and the presence of mosquitos, certain health products are essential to take to Tonga. Tonga also has a fragile marine ecosystem so natural sunscreens and repellents are a must, while reusable water purification bottles are preferable to buying bottled water for obvious environmental reasons. See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Tonga , as well as tips for protecting the health of the environment in the 30 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Tonga .

The currency in Tonga is Tongan Pa’anga . You will need to be prepared to get by on cash for much of your stay as this is often the only payment method accepted. There are ATMs in the four main towns of Tonga. Get more money tips in  What is The Best Way to Pay in Tonga?

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga?

For citizens of around 70 different countries, the answer is no. You just need to arrive in Tonga with a valid passport. Citizens not of visa-exempt countries will need an Entry Permit. Find out more about Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga? and what other paperwork to prepare in  What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Tonga?

How Long to Spend in Tonga

Tonga might make for an idyllic boutique resort getaway to simply relax for a few days  – and that’s fine; we all need to R&R from time to time. Most travellers, however, are here to explore and experience some of the most dramatic culture and wildlife experiences in the South Pacific. With that in mind, here’s what you can achieve in certain timeframes… (And don’t worry, we’ll get onto the destinations in the next few sections).

3 Days / A Long Weekend in Tonga

Over three days or a long weekend, you have enough time to see the highlights of Tongatapu . Check out The Best Tonga Itineraries for 3 Days   for a compilation of itineraries.

5 Days in Tonga

Start by exploring Tongatapu , then head to one of the outer islands, such as the nearby ‘Eua , for a couple of days. See  The Best Tonga Itineraries for 5 Days for trip ideas.

7 Days / 1 Week in Tonga

Visit two island groups to experience two sides of Tonga. Flights and ferries connect the main four groups regularly so take your pick! Get some inspiration on what to do and where to go from The Best Tonga Itineraries for 7 Days .

14 Days / 2 Weeks in Tonga

Adventurous travellers can visit as many as four major island groups of Tonga. See The Best Tonga Itineraries for 14 Days for a whole list of exciting itineraries.

How Long Can You Stay in Tonga?

Visitors to Tonga can stay up to one month (30 days) or nationals from a Schengen member country can stay up to three months (90 days)! Visitor extensions are available, however, which you can learn more about in our guide,   How Long Can You Stay in Tonga on a Visitor Visa?

Where to Visit: Tongatapu

Tongatapu , the “Sacred South”, is the southernmost and most populated island group in Tonga. Not only is it home to the Kingdom’s capital, Nuku’alofa , but it is the main arrival island to launch you into exploring the country.

The main island of Tonga is the most developed and home to some of Tonga’s most famous historical and natural sights , such as the ancient Ha’amonga ‘a Maui Trilithon and the natural cave swimming pool ‘Anahulu Cave .

Most of Tongatapu’s big-ticket activities depart from Faua Wharf in Nuku’alofa, including whale swimming , scuba diving and snorkelling tours . Other attractions are the cultural floor shows at resorts and the Talamahu Market in the city.

Most accommodations are based in or around Nuku’alofa , while a small number of resorts can be found lining the beaches and even nestled in forest on the eastern side of the island.

Take a look at more of what Tongatapu has to offer in The Complete Guide to Tongatapu and in the capital in The Complete Guide to Nuku’alofa .

Where to Visit: ‘Eua

Tonga’s third-largest island, ‘Eua (pronounced “ay-wah”) is a nature lover’s paradise, famous for its large tract of tropical forest in the ‘Eua National Park , as well as its array of natural attractions .

‘Eua sits less than 20 km (11 mi) off the southeast coast of Tongatapu, making it an easy island to get to by ferry and flight . The island is much less developed than Tongatapu, but that’s the beauty of it, with only a handful of accommodations – all of which are budget.

The ‘Eua National Park can be explored through hiking and 4WD tours , while there are more natural wonders to discover on foot, between limestone cliffs dappled in caves to rock gardens inhabited by wild horses.

That’s not to say that the must-dos in Tonga aren’t available in ‘Eua, as it has the longest-running whale season in Tonga for whale swimming. The island’s retreats also specialise in freediving and spearfishing , while the villages offer effortless cultural immersion .

Learn more about this ancient island in The Complete Guide to ‘Eua .

Where to Visit: Ha’apai

Looking for the white sands, swaying coconut palms and turquoise lagoons that you see on Instagram or the brochures? Well, they’re here in the islands of Ha’apai .

This central island group is made up of 62 islands, only 17 of which are inhabited. Lifuka is the main island and home to the island group’s main town, Pangai . Visitors are also likely to either stay on the causeway-connected Foa Island or at one of the resorts on the nearby uninhabited island of Uoleva .

Aside from relaxing in a hammock on the beach all day, travellers to Ha’apai can hire bikes to check out some of the historical sites , such as an ancient fortress and memorial sites, around the flat islands.

On the water, the lagoons in front of the resorts offer a spectacular playground for watersports, including kayaking , snorkelling , stand-up paddleboarding and especially kitesurfing . And yes, Ha’apai does have its fair share of whale swimming tours , scuba diving trips and fishing charters .

Learn more about visiting these idyllic islands in The Complete Guide to Ha’apai .

Where to Visit: Vava’u

Travel approximately 130 km (80 mi) north of Ha’apai and you’ll reach the island group of Vava’u , 50 islands compacted together seemingly breaking off the tentacle arms of the large main island, ‘Utu Vava’u .

Vava’u is arguably the island group that put Tonga on the map in terms of the country’s remarkable water activities. It’s the island group with the most whale swimming tours , the most fishing charters , the most scuba diving operators , island-hopping tours and more. Vava’u is also renowned for being one of the best sailing grounds in the South Pacific thanks to its labyrinth of inlets, sheltered bays and compacted islands.

Flights arrive on ‘Utu Vava’u , a short drive from the island group’s main hub, Neiafu , sitting on the shores of the Port of Refuge Harbour . The town’s highlights include the bustling market awash in unique handicrafts and the Mt Talau National Park which begs a short climb to the top of incredible views of the Port of Refuge.

Visits to Vava’u can go one of two ways: an urban stay in Neiafu , with easy access to the wharf’s boat tours, or staying on one of the idyllic outer islands otherwise uninhabited except for a boutique resort .

Find out more about visiting Vava’u in The Complete Guide to Vava’u .

Where to Visit: The Niuas

Finally, the most intrepid of travellers may be intrigued by the islands of The Niuas . Made up of just three islands, The Niuas consist of Niuatoputapu and its volcanic-coned neighbour Tafahi , which is approximately 300 km (190 mi) north of Vava’u. There’s also Niuafo’ou which sits 100 km (60 mi) west of Niuatoputapu.

The Niuas are a snapshot of what the Pacific used to be, with villages made up of traditionally thatched fales (bungalows), fishermen bringing in the food and only receiving the occasional visitors. Flights to Niuatoputapu are once every week and even less to Niuafo’ou, while ferries head to the islands once or twice a month at best.

A stay in The Niuas is a truly local experience where you’ll be immersing in the community, joining cook-outs, taking trips into the forest to find ‘ofata (grubs) to eat, hiking to volcanic hilltops, snorkelling among undisturbed coral and more.

Needless to say, The Niuas is a journey you’ll have to pave for yourself. Nevertheless, you can start to learn a bit more about these far-flung islands in The Complete Guide to The Niuas .

How to Get Around Tonga

Tonga might not have an overwhelming number of island groups but the distance between each is quite substantial with around 180 km (110 mi) between Tongatapu and Ha’apai and 130 km (80 mi) between Ha’apai and Vava’u . Not to mention,  Tonga’s larger islands are well worth exploring in their own right. So how do you get around Tonga?

Domestic Flights

To get between island groups, flights operate daily except Sundays . They are the fastest and most comfortable way to get between islands, so naturally, the most expensive option. Learn more about flying between the island groups in The Guide to Domestic Flights in Tonga .

Interisland Ferries

Cargo-style boats and barge ferries travel between Tongatapu , ‘Eua , Ha’apai and Vava’u several times a week. They are cheaper than flying but trips can last several hours. See The Guide to Travelling in Tonga by Ferry to learn much more about this transport method.

Car rental is readily available in Tongatapu and Vava’u , but a little harder to find in ‘Eua and Ha’apai unless you know where to look. Find out everything you need to know about hiring in What You Need to Hire a Car in Tonga .

Taxis are available in Tongatapu and Vava’u . Ask for the going rate, as many don’t use meters. See  The Guide to Taxis in Tonga for more tips.

Buses are ultra-cheap, providing a local experience to get around Tongatapu . We have a guide for that too, in How to Travel Around Tonga By Bus .

There are a lot more ways to travel around Tonga between resort transfers, guided tours, bicycle rental and even multi-day kayaking tours so be sure to browse our Tonga Transport Guide: 15 Ways to Get Around Tonga for more advice.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in Tonga

Tonga’s accommodations are “intimate” with the exception of one large hotel in Nuku’alofa . Choose from beachfront resorts typically consisting of only two to seven fales (beach bungalows), while guesthouses provide a cheap and homely experience. Holiday homes, villas and even backpacker hostels are also available in Tonga.

Take a look at accommodation styles across Tonga in Where to Stay in Tonga: The Best Accommodations in Tonga .

Typically lining a beach or private island, Tonga’s resorts are small and tranquil. Most have either a restaurant with à la carte dining or a dining fale where shared meals are served. Many resorts will offer their own array of free and paid experiences, such as whale swimming, scuba diving, use of watersports equipment and more. Resorts are by no means five stars but range from basic traditionally built fales to well-appointed bungalows.

Learn more about what to expect from Tonga’s resorts in How to Pick the Best Resort in Tonga for You . Plus, don’t miss  The Top 25 Resorts in Tonga .

Guesthouses

Found in each island group’s main towns, guesthouses are usually owned by locals providing affordable and authentic Tongan hospitality. Guests have a private room, sometimes with an ensuite, and share communal facilities like a kitchen and bathroom.

Find out more about their facilities in How to Pick the Best Guesthouse in Tonga for You , as well as our top picks in the  20 Best Guesthouses in Tonga .

Holiday Homes/Villas

For travellers seeking their own space and perhaps conveniences like self-catering facilities, choose one of the holiday homes or villa complexes in Tonga. Holiday homes can be cost-effective for large groups and families, while villas tend to have everything needed for couples or families to enjoy a self-contained stay.

Check out How to Pick the Best Holiday Home in Tonga for You and How to Choose the Best Villa in Tonga for You for more details. Plus, be sure to browse the 20 Best Holiday Homes in Tonga and  10 Best Villas in Tonga .

Hotels offer an alternative accommodation option in Tonga’s two largest towns, Nuku’alofa and Neiafu . They range in quality from Tonga’s one international-style hotel to the more prevalent three-star boutique hotels and budget hotels.

Check out How to Pick the Best Hotel in Tonga for You for more of an overview or jump straight to our favourites in the 25 Best Hotels in Tonga .

Accommodation Standards in Tonga

It’s important to set a few expectations straight before checking into your accommodation in Tonga. Tonga is a developing country with a younger tourism industry and, in turn, less expertise than some of the more developed tourist hubs of the South Pacific. Some accommodations can be pretty basic, and not all of your usual facilities are provided. All in all, it is best to keep an open mind.

Things to Do in Tonga

Tonga hooks most travellers with the prospect of swimming with humpback whales but there’s much more to this island nation. You never know, after browsing our 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List you might just realise that there are amazing experiences even outside of the whale season.

Water Activities in Tonga

• Swimming with whales – Take boat tours to snorkel with whales between July and October
• Scuba diving – Choose from tens of dive sites, from coral formations to caves
• Snorkelling – Snorkel over coral reefs from shore or on snorkelling boat tours
• Kitesurfing – Ha’apai and Vava’u offer flat lagoons and ideal trade winds for kitesurfing
• Game fishing – The South Pacific’s largest pelagics can be caught on fishing charters in Tonga
• Sailing – Tonga and especially Vava’u are some of the most iconic sailing grounds in the South Pacific
• Kayaking & SUP – Hire these watersports equipment from your resort to explore the coast and reefs
• Surfing – Hit uncrowded reef breaks on Tongatapu and Vava’u or do some beach surfing in Ha’apai.

Land Activities in Tonga

• Markets – Handicraft and produce markets are the centre of communities in Tonga making for an enriching cultural experience
• Historical sites – Tonga is home to some of the South Pacific’s most ancient sites, from megalithic structures to royal tombs
• Natural attractions – Limestone caves, blowholes and more spectacular natural features can be found in Tonga
• Cultural tours – Take part in traditions, see crafting and food demonstrations
• Cultural shows – Experience an iconic Tongan floor show accompanied by an umu feast
• Museums & art galleries – See ancient relics and Tongan artwork on display
• Spa treatments – Visit a day spa or get a massage at your resort’s beachfront massage fale.

Again, you’ll find much more inspiration from our 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List so get on there!

Food in Tonga

Food is an integral part of the Tongan culture. Despite there being limited dining options outside of main centres like Nuku’alofa and Neiafu , accommodation hosts will ensure you won’t go hungry by either providing homecooked meals of Tongan fare or boasting their own restaurant with an international menu. Everything you need to know about food in Tonga can be found in The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours .

Restaurants and Cafes

Tonga’s restaurants can be found in Nuku’alofa and Neiafu , as well as some of its resorts . They typically have international influences, such as Italian, American, British, Chinese and more, as well as local Tongan dishes. Check out our top dining picks in the  20 Best Restaurants in Tonga .

Self-Catering

Self-catering is often an option with many accommodations offering some sort of cooking facilities . Travellers can pick up food from small supermarkets, fale koloa (convenience stores), and produce markets. Get advice on self-catering in our guide,  A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Tonga .

Special Diets

With tropical vegetables and coconut cream being staple ingredients in Tonga, vegans and gluten-intolerant diners are usually doable in Tonga but you will struggle to find dishes on restaurant menus that cater to various diets. Those with dietary health issues should let accommodation hosts know about any dietary requirements before arrival. Check out Tonga for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants , as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to Tonga   for more advice.

What Food to Try

And what are the foods worth trying in Tonga? Tongan food can be sampled at Tongan restaurants, cultural shows and buffets , locally-owned supermarkets, and markets and roadside stalls, particularly on a Saturday. Check out which meals to look out for in the 10 Unique Foods in Tonga You Have to Try , as well as drinks in the  10 Drinks in Tonga You Have to Try!

Food and Water Safety

Tourist accommodations in Tonga tend to have access to safe drinking water, whether it’s a jug of filtered water at reception or the option to buy bottled water. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in Tonga? for more advice. Food in Tonga is generally cooked to safe hygiene standards, but check out Tonga Safety Tips  for precautions to take.

Want to know more about dining in Tonga? Head to The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours .

Typical Costs and Budget for a Trip to Tonga

We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone is, quite frankly, an impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your own needs, thus budget, by simply looking at the typical prices listed below or in our article, Tonga Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Tonga Cost?

The Cost of Accommodation

• Dorm bed /night – TOP$40-$70
• Guesthouse double room /night – TOP$70-$90
• Guesthouse double ensuite /night – TOP$100-$120
• Guesthouse family room /night – TOP$120-$200
• 3-star hotel double ensuite /night – TOP$240-$360
• 4-star hotel double ensuite /night – TOP$400-$600
• Budget resort fale double room /night – TOP$80-$150
• 3/4-star resort fale  double room /night – TOP$250-$1,200
• Resort fale family room /night – TOP$290-$1,200
• Sailing charter /night – TOP$1,860.

The Cost of Food

• Main breakfast meal – TOP$9-$29
• Main lunch meal – TOP$15-$30
• Main dinner meal – TOP$22-$60
• Dessert – TOP$10-$15
• Cultural show and buffet – TOP$50-$100
• Pint of beer – TOP$8-$12
• Glass of wine – TOP$15.50-$19
• Small coffee – TOP$5-$8
• Soft drink – TOP$5-$7
• Resort meal plan full-board/day – TOP$170-$290.

Grocery prices for self-catering can be found in What is the Cost of Food in Tonga?

The Cost of Tours and Activities

All activity prices are per person unless stated otherwise.

• Guided land sightseeing tour – TOP$100-$300
• Guided land sightseeing tour /vehicle – TOP$350-$600
• Guided hike – TOP$50-$70 (usually donation)
• Culture tour or workshop / 3 hours – TOP$20-$75
• Botanical garden tour  – TOP$150
• Cultural show & buffet – TOP$50-$100
• ‘Anahulu Cave entry – TOP$15
• Tonga National Museum entry – TOP$5
• Vanilla plantation tour – TOP$20
• Horse riding – TOP$60
• Massage /60 minutes – TOP$90-$160
• Whale swimming tour – TOP$400-$700
• Scuba diving /two-tank – TOP$250-$420
• Spearfishing and fishing – TOP$150-$370
• Game fishing /half-day charter – TOP$2,360-$2,540
• Boat sightseeing/snorkelling tour – TOP$150-$200
• Pangaimotu Island day trip – TOP$50
• Kayak tour/ day – TOP$220.

The Cost of Transport

• Bicycle rental /day – TOP$0-$35
• Scooter rental /day – TOP$50-$55
• Car rental /day – TOP$50-$200
• Public bus /trip – TOP$0.80-$3.50
• Taxi /first kilometre – TOP$3.50-$4.10/ Continuous km – TOP$1.20-1.40/km
• Accommodation/airport transfers /person – TOP$0-$100
• Ferry / ‘Eua to Tongatapu  – TOP$30 Ha’apai to Tongatapu  – TOP$70-$80 Vava’u to Tongatapu  – TOP$90-$100 Tongatapu to The Niuas  – TOP$150 Vava’u to Ha’apai  – TOP$80-$90
• Boat charter / Lifuka to Uoleva – TOP$250
• Island resort airport transfer – TOP$50-$200
• Flight / Tongatapu to Vava’u – TOP$340-$390/adult, TOP$230-$295/child, TOP$35/infant Tongatapu to Ha’apai – TOP$240-$260/adult, TOP$160-$180/child, TOP$25/infant Tongatapu to ‘Eua – TOP$100/adult, TOP$50/child, TOP$10/infant.

Again, check out our guide, Tonga Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Tonga Cost?  for more budget tips and costs.

Spending Money for Tonga

Here are a few averages for a daily budget for Tonga. These include food, activities, transport and miscellaneous expenses. Each price is per person per day:

• Budget daily budget : TOP$150
• Mid-range daily budget : TOP$295
• Luxury daily budget : TOP$460+

We break down the budgets further in How Much Spending Money Do You Need for Tonga?

Frequently Asked Questions About Tonga

What are the questions most travellers have about visiting Tonga?

Is Tonga a Safe Place to Visit?

Tonga is a country with low levels of crime. Nevertheless, sensible measures should be taken to ensure personal safety, whether you’re in public or swimming at the beach. Learn more about precautions to take in  How to Keep Safe in Tonga .

Is Tonga Expensive to Visit?

Tonga is more expensive than Southeast Asian countries but cheaper than many other South Pacific Islands, as well as New Zealand and Australia. Compare prices in our guide, Tonga Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Tonga Cost?

Which is Better, Tonga or Samoa?

Often compared when it comes to South Pacific holidays, Tonga and Samoa both have their charms. Samoa receives more tourists and, therefore, has a better-established selection of accommodations and resorts. Tonga, on the other hand, offers more adventure experiences, particularly famous for its whale swimming.

Why Should I Visit Tonga?

There are several reasons why you should visit Tonga, including that it’s world-renowned for its whale swimming, the culture is unique and immersive, Tonga has incredible scuba diving and snorkelling, and the list continues in the 20 Amazing Reasons to Visit Tonga .

Tonga Accommodation

• Tanoa International Dateline Hotel
• Tukulolo Grounds & Treehouses
• ‘Utu’one Bed & Breakfast
• Emerald Hotel & Restaurant
• Seaview Lodge & Restaurant
• Waterfront Lodge
• Villa Ishadora
• Little Italy Hotel
• House of Tonga Hotel
• The Village Backpackers
• NOA Guesthouse
• Fale Tonga Guesthouse
• Toni’s Guesthouses & Apartments
• Winnie’s B&B
• Simon’s Place
• Paradise First Hotel
• Tungi Colonnade Hotel
• JeZAmi Hotel
• Green Lodge Holiday Homes
• Tonga Holiday Villa
• Tonga Cottage
• Siale Tonga
• Paea’s Guest House
• The Tropical Villa
• Dayspring Lodge
• Katea Retreat
• Backpackers Townhouse (Kapeta Backpackers)
• Fiefia Fale (Koko Designs)
• Starlight Guesthouse
• Kupesi Hotel
• Sunrise Hotel

For more about all of the accommodations listed above, check out our guide on Where to Stay on Tongatapu: The Best Accommodations .

• Blue Water Retreat
• ‘Alakoka Tahi Moana Guest House
• Tukia Complex
• Seta’s Guest House
• Toafa Lodge
• Talei’s Guesthouse
• Highlight Guesthouse
• Falakiko Guesthouse
• Pacific-Sila Lodge

Learn more about each accommodation in Where to Stay on ‘Eua: The Best ‘Eua Accommodations .

• Sandy Beach Resort
• Serenity Beaches Resort
• Matafonua Lodge
• Sea Change Eco Retreat
• Kitesurf Tonga
• Diana Beach Resort
• Ha’apai Beach Resort
• Fanga ’o Ipu Lahi Resort
• Whale Discoveries Live-Aboard
• Lindsay Guesthouse
• Evaloni Guesthouse
• Fifita Guesthouse

For more details on our top picks, see Where to Stay in Ha’apai: The Best Accommodations .

• The Reef Resort
• The Harbourview
• Flying Annie Moa
• Mystic Sands
• Boathouse Apartments
• Puataukanave Hotel
• Hilltop Hotel
• Tongan Beach Resort
• Mala Island Resort
• Saralee’s House
• Mounu Island Resort
• Blue Lagoon Resort
• Dream Island Resort
• Billfish Holiday Apartments
• Treasure Island Eco Resort
• Lupetea Apartment
• Beautiful Ofu Island Backpackers
• Makafeke Island Resort
• Makafeke Apartment
• Oceanside Lodge
• Port Wine Guest House
• Pineapple Bungalows
• Lucky’s Beach Houses
• Pio’s Backpackers
• Port of Refuge Villas
• Hakula Lodge
• Mandala Resort
• Marlene’s Motel
• Jia Heng Holiday Hotel

Learn more about our top picks in  Where to Stay in Vava’u: The Best Accommodations . Or, how about where to stay over the entirety of Tonga? Check out our guide, Where to Stay in Tonga: The Best Accommodations in Tonga .

Tonga Travel Guides: Plan a Tonga Trip According to Your Travel Style

Finally, this wouldn’t be the best travel guide to Tonga without taking into account that everyone likes to holiday differently. Here at Tonga Pocket Guide , we have travel guides for all styles of travel, including budget travellers, luxury travellers, honeymooners, families, adults-only and foodies. If one of these fits your style, then jump ahead to the appropriate travel guide:

• The Travel Guide to Tonga for Families
• The Budget & Backpacking Guide to Tonga
• The Luxury Travel Guide to Tonga
• The Food  Guide to Tonga
• The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Tonga
• The Adults-Only Vacation Guide to Tonga

Happy travels and thanks for reading this travel guide to Tonga! You might also like our 31 Tips for Travelling in Tonga .

Laura (Lola) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Tonga Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Tonga. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Tonga’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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The Tonga Tourism Authority is responsible for working together with Tourism Directed businesses to market Tonga as a tourist destination. Tonga Tourism creates awareness of its products and services to be experienced by tourists.  It is our vision that Tourism drives Tonga’s future sustainable economic growth, improving living conditions and optimizing prosperity for all Tongans.

Tourism drives Tonga’s future sustainable economic growth, improving living conditions and optimizing prosperity for all Tongans.

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