People

The Kingdom of Tonga’s history stretches back over
3000 years, beginning with the migration of the Lapita
people from the mainland and islands of Southeast Asia.
Tongan culture and customs began with these earliest of
Polynesians, and many ancient traditions have continued
respectfully through to the present day. The arrival of
European explorers and navigators from the 17th century
saw the introduction of Christianity, now an integral part
of the modern Kingdom of Tonga.
Experiencing the beautiful harmonies filling Tongan
churches every Sunday is an essential experience for all
visitors to the Kingdom. Across the ensuing centuries,
Tonga’s authentic culture has continued to be respected
and maintained across the pristine islands of this
Polynesian archipelago.
Tonga’s monarchy is over 1,000 years old and is the South
Pacific’s only remaining Kingdom. Tonga became known
as the Friendly Islands because of the hospitable
reception given to Captain James Cook on his first visit in
1773. Tongans are humble and down to earth people
that deeply respect traditions and culture. With the
friendly atmosphere and ultimately friendliness of the
people, you will find that Tonga is truly a place you will
experience.

Culture

The Tongan culture is centred on its value of the monarchy and
of family. The Tongan culture is known for its friendly hospitality
and its rich cultural inheritance showcased through Tongan dance,
music, art and food passed down through many generations. Welcome
to the Kingdom where you can taste and see the Tongan culture for
yourself with so much to see, do and explore. Tonga’s motto is
“Ko e ‘Otua mo Tonga ko hoku tofi’a”, “God and Tonga are my
Inheritance”.
With its unique and cultural heritage that dates back to the arrival of
Polynesians some 3500 years ago, Tonga is the world’s only remaining
Polynesian monarchy. The monarchy is one of the most important
elements of Tongan culture and is the only South Pacific country never
to have been colonized by a foreign power. The elaborate and diverse
tangible and intangible heritage of Tonga, her unmatched cultural, historical
and archaeological landmarks making the landscape, movement of people
over time and space, culturally and historically embedded in her distinctive
language, is a case in point.
Tonga’s rich and beautiful artistic and literary genres, divided into faiva
(performance), tufunga (material), and nimamea’a (fine arts) are themselves
exceptional. Therein, both the quality of art and literature coexist, where they
are made not only to be beautiful but also to be useful.

RAW Beauty

The Kingdom of Tonga is known as the Friendly Islands. With 176
islands to explore, you will be spoiled for choice in the Kingdom of
Tonga. Only 40 islands are inhabited, so it is easy to imagine yourself
on one of the deserted islands and become friends with the local sea
life. Tonga is made up of four major island groups: Tongatapu and
‘Eua in the south, Ha’apai group in the centre and Vava’u group
in the north, each have their own flavour. Further north you will
find Niua Fo’ou and Niuatoputapu, two islands that make up the
Niuas island group. Tonga is a unique Polynesian Kingdom where
the King and his Royal Family and Nobles are similar to many
European Monarchies.
Discover the magic of the Tongan archipelago of 176 islands. Discover
pristine beaches, stunning coral atolls, active volcanoes and untouched
rainforests. With an abundance of marine life, deserted islands, national
parks, caves, authentic villages, impressive mountains, rugged cliff faces
and ancient lava tubes. The True South Pacific really has it all.
Enjoy the Kingdom’s tropical climate from January to December. Take a
guided fishing expedition, go sea kayaking and explore the Pacific Ocean
or swim with whales and turtles. Visit the local markets to see fine weaving
and bone or wood carving. Relax on the beach while the young ones
discover the hidden treasures of the coral reefs. Plenty to do for the
whole family.
Come to Tonga for a truly relaxing holiday and experience the true South Pacific.

Top 8 Activities

• Whale watching
• Diving
• Fishing
• Snorkeling
• Kitesurfing/Surfing
• Bird Watching
• Sailing
• Kayaking