Tonga

The Polynesian country Tonga is all about unspoiled natural landscape, friendly locals, and interesting cultural experiences. Tonga is a constitutional monarchy and comprises more than 170 islands which are known for their verdant rainforests and white-sand beaches. The diverse terrain of the country is suitable for numerous activities from diving and snorkelling to hiking and trekking.

The Tongatapu Island houses the capital Nukuʻalofa. In the heart of the city, you will find the 19th-century wooden Royal Palace, the impressive Basilica of St Anthony of Padua with beautiful stained glass windows and the bustling Talamahu Market, the best place to experience local life. The Ha’amonga ‘a Maui Trilithon on the eastern coast of the island is an intriguing ancient stone structure. It is one of the major attractions of the country and is made of coralline stone. The south-western coast is home to the stunning Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes. Water shoots out of these rugged limestone rocks upto 30 metres high and this fascinating phenomena stretches for almost 5 km near Houma village.

A few kilometres south-east of Tongatapu, lies ‘Eua Island, a popular choice for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The rainforest-covered island is known to be over 40 million years old and is home to exotic species of birds. As you go north from Tongatapu, you will discover a few small-scale resorts on the otherwise uninhabited island of Uoleva. This island is the perfect hideaway where you can relax amid lush nature. Further north lies the Vava’u Islands. Its main town Neiafu has a pretty harbour and is also the second-largest town in Tonga. Though the stunning beaches and dense jungles of this archipelago will make your jaw drop, the real beauty lies underwater. So grab your snorkelling gear and dive into the depths of the Pacific where you can swim with humpback whales and schools of colourful tropical fishes and explore rich coral reefs.

Tonga is a magical destination, undoubtedly one of the planet’s best untouched natural paradises that any traveller will feel blessed to stumble upon. The endless ocean with its enchanting shades of blue housing a wealth of marine life, dozens of islands covered by dense rainforests, caves and hidden natural wonders, make Tonga an ideal ecotourist destination.