Tonga Geography and Maps
One definition of the word Tonga is “garden”, therefore, it is not surprising that is it considered by many to be the most unspoiled group of islands of all the Pacific Island Nations. It is located in Oceania in the South Pacific Ocean, south of Western Samoa. In total, this archipelago is made up of 176 islands with only 36 being inhabited. The islands are divided into three groups: Vava’u, Ha’apai and Tongatapu.
Vava’u Islands: These islands are very remote with very few being inhabited. Some of the islands have white sandy beaches while others house tropical rain forests, caves and limestone cliffs.
Ha’apai Islands: Only 17 of the islands in this group are inhabited. The islands are a mix of barrier reefs, shallow lagoons, coral shoals and active volcanoes.
Tongatapu Islands: These islands are named after the largest island in Tonga which is home to the nation’s capital Nuku'alofa. The islands are flat with very fertile soil and house the majority of the population.
Geologically speaking, the islands can be divided into two groups: the Eastern Islands (including ‘Ata, Fonuato’ou, Tofua and Kao) which were formed from a limestone base and uplifted coral, and then the Western Islands (including ‘Eua, Tongatapu, Vava’u and Lifuka) that have a volcanic base. There are still some active volcanoes found in Tonga including Tofua Island in the Ha’apai group and Falcon Island in the Vava’u group which is a submerged volcano that erupts periodically. The Eastern Islands are where the majority of the population lives.
Interestingly, as Tonga is located to the west of the International Date Line, it is the first nation to greet the new day.
Tonga Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Tonga.
Learn about the history and culture of Tonga., the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Tonga's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, and 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Tonga. for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Tonga vacations today!
Extend Your Stay
Consider an additional stopover after or before one of your Tonga tours at one of Goway's other South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages, one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation.
Book your Tonga Vacation with Goway!
Goway’s Downunder wizards can offer you many ways to explore and enjoy Tonga. Choose from a simple island stopover and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Tonga.
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