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Tonga

The Friendly Islands

The nation of Tonga holds a Guinness World Record. Their previous King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV who died in 2006, weighed 460 pounds and holds the record for being the world’s heaviest king. There are 170 islands that make up Tonga but only 36 of them are inhabited. And, it is one of the few places on the entire planet where you can swim with whales. You can also explore active volcanoes and pristine rainforests on your South Pacific adventure.
These islanders are known for their friendly hospitality. Their rich culture, music, dancing and feasts have been celebrated for nearly 3,000 years. During his first visit in 1773, the famous British explorer James Cook was invited by the island’s chief to a lavish feast and celebration to honor him and his men. The celebration was so well received that Captain Cook gave Tonga the nickname of “The Friendly Islands”. Later, Captain Cook found out the chief had planned an ambush to loot his ship while he attended the feast but that plan was abandoned just before the feast began.

Experiences

Swim with Humpback Whales

Swim with Humpback Whales

Tonga is one of the best destinations for whale watching and one of the few places in the world where you are allowed to swim with them. Every year, the whales migrate 3,000 miles from their feeding ... See more

Sipi Tau War Dance

Sipi Tau War Dance

Tonga may be a small island, but the ancestors of these friendly islanders were once a fierce and strong people who protected their families, lands and culture from invaders. They were the proud and ... See more

Natural Land Bridge at Hufangalupe

Natural Land Bridge at Hufangalupe

Travel to a remote side of the island to get a look at this incredible naturally formed arch. This natural bridge was formed as the Pacific Ocean’s pounding waves slowly eroded the base of the cliff ... See more

Anahulu Cave

Anahulu Cave

Explore the thousands of ancient stalagmites and stalactites in this network of limestone caverns. Then, enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the freshwater, underground swimming pools. There are also n... See more

Hunga Ha’apai, New Volcano Island

Hunga Ha’apai, New Volcano Island

Republic of Minerva

Republic of Minerva

Set your sails for 250 nautical miles off the coast of Tonga, and find what’s left of a failed, Libertarian micronation that was formed on reclaimed reefs in the Pacific Ocean. They wanted to establi... See more

Fishing Pigs

Fishing Pigs

You have probably heard the saying “When pigs fly…” These island porkers can’t fly but they sure can fish. At low tide you can watch feral pigs trotting around in the water and snuffling for tasty s... See more

Mapu ’A Vaea Blowholes

Mapu ’A Vaea Blowholes

Attend a Tongan Feast

Attend a Tongan Feast

Multi Day Catamaran Sail

Multi Day Catamaran Sail

Sunset at Ha’atafu Beach

Sunset at Ha’atafu Beach

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