Group trips to Tonga
Our organized trips to Tonga
In the heart of Polynesia lies Tonga, a kingdom where every sunrise paints a new masterpiece across an archipelago of untouched wonders. This is a realm of deep cultural roots and exhilarating natural beauty, inviting you to discover a pace of life dictated by the gentle ebb and flow of the ocean. Imagine navigating the sparkling turquoise waters of Vava'u, famed for its sheltered harbours and incredible humpback whale encounters, or stepping back in time amidst the ancient coral megaliths of the Ha'amonga 'a Maui on Tongatapu. Tonga calls to the discerning voyager dreaming of genuine Pacific immersion, offering an escape into a world where warmth, tradition, and pristine landscapes converge.
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FAQs about Tonga
Tonga operates on Tonga Standard Time (TST), which is 13 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+13). Tonga does not observe daylight saving time.
If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 1am in Tonga the next day.
If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 6am in Tonga the next day.
The currency used in Tonga is the Tongan Paʻanga. As of the latest rates:
- 1 GBP is approximately 3.00 Tongan Paʻanga
- 1 USD is about 2.30 Tongan Paʻanga
- 1 EUR is around 2.50 Tongan Paʻanga
You can exchange currency at local banks and exchange offices in Tonga. Always check for the most current rates before exchanging money.
You can pay in Tonga using cash or credit and debit cards. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and larger businesses, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets. It's a good idea to carry some Tongan paʻanga for smaller purchases. There are ATMs in major towns where you can withdraw cash with a card.
Tipping in Tonga is not a common practice. Service charges are usually included in bills at hotels and restaurants, so there is no need to tip. However, if you feel you've received exceptional service and want to show appreciation, a small cash tip might be appreciated but it's not expected. Always consider that tipping is more of a personal choice rather than a cultural norm in Tonga.
In Tonga, the internet can be slow and coverage might not be as broad as you’re used to. Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and cafes, but it can be unreliable. We suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for better connectivity. Providers like Digicel offer various data packages that can be more reliable for staying connected. This way, you'll have mobile data access wherever you go, which is particularly useful if you’re exploring beyond main tourist spots.
In Tonga, they speak Tongan and English. Here are some common Tongan expressions you might hear or use:
- Hello: Mālō e lelei
- Thank you: Mālō
- Please: Kataki
- Yes: 'Io
- No: 'Ikai
While English is widely understood, using a few Tongan phrases can be a friendly gesture when interacting with locals.
In Tonga, the power plugs and sockets are of type I. The standard voltage is 240 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses different plug types, like the UK or the USA, you’ll need a universal adapter to charge your devices. It's always a good idea to check if your devices are compatible with the voltage to avoid any issues.
The main religion in Tonga is Christianity, with the majority of the population being members of various Christian denominations. Important religious holidays you might encounter include Christmas and Easter, which are widely celebrated with church services, feasts, and community events. Tonga's society places a strong emphasis on religious observance, and Sundays are typically reserved for church and rest, with most businesses closed.
When packing for Tonga, it's great to be prepared for a tropical climate. Here's a handy list of what to put in your backpack:
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Clothing:
- Lightweight shirts and shorts
- Swimwear
- Sarongs or wraparounds
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
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Shoes:
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
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Accessories and Technology:
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Waterproof phone case
- Portable charger
- Camera to capture the stunning scenery
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Toiletries and Medication:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent
- Basic first aid kit, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes
- Common travel medication like motion sickness tablets, pain relievers, antihistamines
The weather in Tonga is tropical, meaning warm temperatures year-round. However, it does vary slightly depending on the season:
- November to April: Hot and humid, with the wet season bringing frequent rain and the chance of cyclones.
- May to October: Cooler and drier, making it the ideal time to visit with pleasant temperatures and less humidity.
If you prefer drier weather, visiting between May and October is recommended. Always check the local forecast before your trip for any short-term weather changes.