Tonga

Tonga is a small island kingdom in the South Pacific Ocean. It is the only country in the Pacific that was never colonized by a foreign power. Tonga has about 170 islands and a proud Polynesian heritage.

Land and People

About 100,000 people live in Tonga. The capital is Nuku'alofa. The islands are a mix of coral atolls and volcanic islands. The water is warm, clear, and full of sea life. Humpback whales visit Tongan waters every year.

Old drawing showing European ships meeting Tongan islanders.
Old drawing showing European ships meeting Tongan islanders. (Isaack Gilsemans / Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Tonga is ruled by a king and has a proud royal tradition. Sunday is a day of rest and most businesses close. Tongan feasts are huge and food is cooked in an underground oven called an umu. Rugby is the national sport. The country is very community-focused.

Fun Facts

  • Tonga is the only Pacific island nation that was never colonized.
  • Tonga has a king and is one of the few remaining monarchies in the Pacific.
  • Humpback whales travel to Tonga every year to have their babies in the warm water.

Did You Know?

Every year from July to October, humpback whales travel thousands of miles from Antarctica to the warm waters of Tonga to have their babies. Visitors can actually swim with these gentle giants in the crystal-clear water. It is one of the few places in the world where this is allowed.