Tonga Island

Tourists, who love to admire wonderful nature of an island and have a crazy, active rest at the same time, should make their travel destination Tonga. Tonga is the center of the formation of the Polynesian cultures; it is here where the peoples of the sea originated, here where many old traditions and customs still exist. This amazing tiny island, hidden in the vast Pacific Ocean, will surprise its guests with the beautiful nature, beaches, hospitable people with their traditions and customs.

Tonga is an island located in the south-western Pacific Ocean, stretching from north to south between the islands of Samoa and New Zealand and from east to west between the Cook Islands and Fiji. Tonga consists of more than 160 islands, the largest and most important of them being the islands of Tongatapu, Vava'u and Ha'apai.

The nature of Tonga is very distinctive. On these volcanic islands many orchids and hibiscuses can be found, which give the landscape of the island a special, easily recognizable flavor. The most common tree in Tonga is the coconut palm tree, represented here by more than two dozen species. The fauna is also very diverse and interesting: the largest animal is the flying fox. There are about 30 species of birds in Tonga, like pigeons, parrots, corncrake, herons, ducks, and frigates. The rich underwater world off the coast of Tonga, with hundreds of species of fish - from the colorful coral fish to sharks will always attract fans of diving. Diving in these waters is considered an exotic pleasure, even for experienced divers because of the great depth of the surrounding waters. Tonga's coral reefs are among the most beautiful ones in the world. Sixty miles south of the island of Tofua the main volcanic islands of Tonga are situated. It is like a real miracle to see a ridge of underwater volcanoes continuously active, continually giving birth to new islands and destroying some of them at the same time. There are several reservations, which protect coral reef ecosystems and the reefs themselves.

Tonga is a real paradise for fans of outdoor activities. Here you can descend into the caves (including submarines) on Tongatapu, Vava'u and Eua, explore the underwater caves of Ha'apai, make an ascent on foot on any of the volcanic cones of the western group, or take a canoeing or kayaking tour to the reef areas around the islands (especially around the protected waters of Ha'apai). Surfing here is as good as in any Pacific island. At any time of the year a good wave can be found at Ha'apai and Vava'u. If you choose Tongatapu, perfect places for surfing can make Haatafu Beach and Niutoa Beach.

Tongan waters are also excellent for sport fishing. Here, next to the reefs, there are abundant shoals of barracuda, tuna, marlin and other fish. The reefs themselves are practically teeming with numerous species of fish.

One of the main features of the islands is watching the migration routes of whales passing along the western shores of Tonga. From June to November along the eastern coast of Tongatapu and Ha'apai, and from July to November along the Vava'u coasts large herds of these sea giants catch the tourists' attention. At this time of year, thousands of fans of nature gather together on the shores and cliffs of Tonga. The underwater microphones record the voices of whales and dozens of boats, canoes and catamarans come up the water surface, right from where tourists can dive under the water exactly in the middle of the whale herds.

Fans of festivals, dancing and music will not be disappointed as there are numerous gay and colorful festivals organized in Tonga. The Pacific Festival "Blue Vava'u" is held in February, accompanied by the widest range of different events, including the diving competitions, "In search of treasures", triathlon and Cultural Fair. In March, at Nuku'alofa traditional triathlon competitions take place. There are many other traditional music festivals of the island, fascinating many tourists by their music, dancing and fun.

According to a local tradition, each visitor presented with a gift of roast suckling pig, but still the world-famous watermelons are the most delicious ones in Tonga.

Tonga hotels and restaurants are well-equipped and have all the facilities to make tourists' leisure here pleasant and comfortable with the help of the friendly and polite staff. Your leisure in Tonga will give you unforgettable impressions for a long time!