Tonga Travel Guide

This relaxed and friendly archipelago of 176 islands in the South Pacific Ocean is politically stable and unspoiled.  Tonga operates as a constitutional monarchy, and the previous King was loved and revered by the populace.  Tonga's location slightly south of the equator means that it receives slightly less rain than other tropical areas, and is a bit cooler and thus more comfortable.  While there is much to appreciate on the surface of this tropical paradise with its pristine lagoons and crystal clear waters, the islands actually hold a rich history.  The first settlers were thought to have arrived here over 6000 years ago and archeologists consider Tonga to be the oldest known site in Polynesia for Lapita ceramic.  Tonga, together with Samoa and Fiji are known as the cradle of Polynesian culture and civilization.  So come to Tonga for a relaxing vacation, sail through the waters, hike through the splendid scenery, participate in bird watching expeditions, or marvel at the ancient structures including a Polynesian Stonehenge in this beautiful island nation.