The archipelago of "The Friendly Islands" was united into a Polynesian kingdom in 1845. 30 years later it became a constitutional monarchy and a British protectorate in 1900. Tonga acquired its independence in 1970 and became a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. It remains the only monarchy in the Pacific.

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, you will find the islands of Tonga about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand. Tonga's climate is tropical, modified by trade winds. The summer season reaches out from december to may, the cool season from may to december.

Most of the small islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have limestone overlying volcanic base.

two thirds of the population of Tonga live on the island of Tongatapu . This is where the airport is, so you are sure to begin your trip here (unless you come by boat).