Tonga
About Tonga
| Currency | Paʻanga (TOP) |
| Language | English and Tongan |
| Capital | Nukuʻalofa |
The Kingdom of Tonga is an archipelago of 176 islands scattered over 270,000 square miles in the South Pacific. The population is about 106,000 people who inhabit only 52 of the islands. Tonga is referred to as the “Friendly Island” so named by James Cook, the British explorer in 1773. In 1845, these islands were united into a Polynesian kingdom. From 1900 to 1970, Tonga was a British protected state but was never colonized. The nation gained full independence in 1970. The first inhabitants were the Polynesians, and this country is the last of the Polynesian kingdoms.
The government is a constitutional monarchy, the only monarchy in the Pacific. The chief of state is a king, and the head of government is a prime minister. Tonga has had a monarchy since the 10th century. Although Tonga has a very conservative, traditional society, the younger population is calling for more political reform leading to a more democratic constitution.
Travellers to Tonga can relax on deserted beaches and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, whale watching.
Recommended Vaccinations For Tonga
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Recommended Medications For Tonga
There are no recommendations for Tonga at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Tonga
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Tonga.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in Tonga.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Tonga through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
Dengue Fever
Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with a sick person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Rabies
The risk of acquiring Rabies is low. However, it may be present in bats. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) may be at risk.
Zika Fever
Zika fever can occur in this country.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Tonga, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Safety & Security in Tonga
Personal Safety
The crime rate in Tonga is relatively low, and most visits to Tonga are trouble free. However, petty crime or other theft can occur anywhere. Always be alert to your personal safety and security. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport.
Avoid walking alone at night. Women need to be particularly cautious. There have been reports of sexual assaults in the past. Activities including swimming, playing sports, listening to loud music, exercising, and fishing outside of island resorts are prohibited due to Sabbath laws. Buses and flights do not operate on Sundays.
Cyclones may occur from November to April. Always stay alert about the weather forecast and heed the advice of local authorities. Be aware that travel plans may be disrupted or canceled in the event of extreme weather.
Tonga is located in an active seismic zone; earthquakes and resulting tsunamis may occur. Volcanic eruptions are likely. There has been an increase in volcanic activity at Home Reef since 10 September. Mariners are alerted to stay at least 5kms from the volcano. The eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano and tsunami on 15 January 2022 disrupted the telecommunication services of several outer islands. Exercise caution when swimming due to the presence of debris like glass, wood, etc. in the sand and water caused by the eruption.
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Tonga with a maximum penalty of imprisonment of ten years. It would be prudent to avoid public displays of affection.
Political Unrest
There have been violent political clashes on Tonga. Democratic elections were held in November 2010, and the political situation is currently stable. In any country, avoid public demonstrations or protests, since these situations can escalate and turn violent unexpectedly.
