Tourist Information for Tonga
General Information
Tonga is located in the very heart of the South Pacific and is one of them most scenic and unspoiled of the Pacific island nations. The 176 islands range from high volcanic to low coral terrain creating scenic variety seldom matched elsewhere in the world. The islands are divided into four groups.
Nuku’alofa, the capital, is located on the main island of Tongatapu. It is more developed than its neighbours but still maintains an unhurried and peaceful lifestyle. Often referred to as the “Crown Jewel of the South Pacific”, Tonga is the only remaining constitutional monarchy in the South Pacific. Tonga is about its people and its traditional culture.
Tongans are welcoming, relaxed and generally happy. Any occasion can become a good reason for getting together to celebrate with friend and family. Whether one is include toward adventure holidays such as surfing, scuba diving, sailing or sea kayaking or just soaking up the sun, an amazing experience is to be had by all the friendly island of the Kingdom of Tonga.
Almost all Tongans are churchgoers. This staunchly Christian nation honours Sundays across every island group. Almost everything (except bakeries, a few restaurants and resorts) is closed. No sporting events take place, it is unlawful to work or trade, and most tours do not operate
Health
Hospital and medical facilities in Tonga are limited and evacuation may be required in cases of serious illness or accident.
Travel health depends largely on pre-departure preparations, day to day attention to health and the handling of health problems that do arise. Travellers are exposed to different environmental factors, foods and sanitation standards, but following a doctor’s advice and using common sense will minimise risks. It is recommend that you seek medical advice at least six weeks prior to travel. As vaccination requirements change regularly we recommend that you contact your doctor or the Travel Doctor www.traveldoctor.co.nz, for the most up to date information.
Food & Water
Mains water is chlorinated and safe to drink in the main towns. Elsewhere, drinking water should be considered a potential health risk and sterilisation is advisable. Bottled water is available. It is advised to wash vegetables and fruit with boiled water and boil any questionable drinking water before use.
Restaurants have table service, and are found mainly in hotels. Apart from hotel dining rooms, there are restaurants which feature Tongan, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Taiwanese cuisine.
Language
Tongan is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
Electricity
The electricity is 240 volts.
Security
When travelling it is normal that precautions should be taken. It is common sense to guard your valuables and never leave your possessions unattended in public areas. Do not leave passports, money or any important paperwork in your hotel room unless there is a safe provided. We recommend that all clients carry photocopies of their passports including the main identification page.
Insurance
It is a requirement of travel with Adventure World that all passengers have adequate travel insurance that includes repatriation. It is important that you read the policy small print.
Shopping
Unique purchases include hand-decorated tapa cloth, woven floor coverings, Taovala pandanus mats, woven pandanus baskets, ‘Ali Baba’ laundry baskets, polished coconut-shell goblets and ashtrays, model outrigger canoes, ornaments, jewellery and silver-inlaid knives. Tongan stamps and coins are collectors’ items and you can find complete sets at the philatelic section of the Tongan Treasury.
AVERAGE MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (°C) – based on Nuku’ alofa
- JAN
- 29
- FEB
- 29
- MAR
- 29
- APR
- 26
- MAY
- 26
- JUN
- 26
- JUL
- 26
- AUG
- 26
- SEP
- 26
- OCT
- 26
- NOV
- 29
- DEC
- 29
- When to Go
- Tonga has a cooler and more comfortable tropical climate than its island neighbours. From December to April is ‘cyclone season’ when the weather is hot and humid, with considerable rainfall. The cool dry season, with average temperatures of up to 22°c, runs from May to November. A trade wind blows during the season making for pleasant days and cool nights.
- Clothing
- Visitors to Tonga need a light tropical wardrobe year round with perhaps a light sweater for the cooler evenings. Wear togs is fine at the resorts but more conservative wear is required when visiting town or villages