The Backpacking & Budget Travel Guide to Tonga 💵 [2024]

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How to Get to Tonga

What is the best way to get to Tonga? Tonga can be accessed by flight, cruise ship or private sailing yachts. The most popular way to get to Tonga is by international flight, so let’s start with that.

Flying to Tonga

Direct international flights to Tonga come from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Samoa and American Samoa. If you’re coming from further afield, connecting flights can be made in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji. See our guide, Which Airlines Fly to Tonga? for more advice on flying to Tonga. Plus, get tips on how to save a few bob in our guide, How to Book a Cheap Flight to Tonga.

Most international arrivals land at Fua’amotu International Airport on the island of Tongatapu, 21 km (13 mi) from the nation’s capital, Nuku’alofa. A limited number of flights also arrive at Lupepau’u International Airport in Vava’u, about 10 km (6 mi) from Neiafu. Find out more about these airports and the best one to fly to in our guide, Tonga Arrival Airports: Which Airport to Fly into Tonga.

Cruises to Tonga

Tonga is on the itinerary of several South Pacific cruises from New Zealand, Australia and French Polynesia. There are two ports of call in Tonga, one in Nuku’alofa on Tongatapu and the other in Neiafu in Vava’u. Find out about which cruise liners have Tonga on their itinerary in the 10 Best Cruises That Visit Tonga. Plus, we have money-saving tips in How to Save Money When Visiting Tonga on a Cruise.

Sailing to Tonga

Tonga is situated at the centre of a Transpacific journey between the US and New Zealand. The yachting season is between May and October. Learn about the sailing formalities and the ports of entry in The Sailing Guide to Tonga.

A Note on Customs Declarations

Tonga has strict biosecurity measures at the border to stop unwanted pests and diseases from entering the country. Therefore, anyone arriving in Tonga has to declare any “risk items” they have packed in their luggage – even common items like food and sports gear. Be sure to read up on Arriving in Tonga: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & Arrival Process so you are prepared.

Check out our complete guide on How to Get to Tonga for even more tips on making your way to the islands of Tonga.

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When to Visit + The Cheapest Time to Visit Tonga

Tonga is a tropical country and experiences warm temperatures throughout the year. It has two distinct seasons, a dry season that is drier and cooler, and a wet season that is hot and humid. Learn much more about the weather and climate by month in our guide to the Tonga Weather, Seasons & Climate + Tonga Weather by Month.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is also known as the winter season in Tonga, although many would not describe it as winter with temperatures around 19-29°C (66-84°F). The rainfall per month is an average of 110 mm (3.9 in). The dry season is also the time for whale swimming and the clearest visibility for scuba diving.

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season is hotter and more humid, with temperatures around 23-31°C (74-88°F) and an average monthly rainfall of 210 mm (8.3 in). This is also Tonga’s cyclone season, which means there’s a risk of cyclones (but only a risk).

The Cheapest Time to Visit Tonga

The cheapest time to visit Tonga is during its wet season, but avoiding the December and early January holiday season, so between mid-January and April.

So when is the best time to travel to Tonga? Check out our complete guide, The Best Time to Visit Tonga, which dives deeper into the subject.

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What to Pack for Tonga

The main thing you need to keep in mind when packing for Tonga is to have a tropical wardrobe that includes some more modest items of clothing for exploring Tonga’s towns and villages. A packing list for Tonga might look a little something like this:

• 4 Singlets/T-Shirts
• 2 Blouses/Shirts to cover the shoulders
• 2 Shorts/Skirts to or below the knee
• 1 Dress/Skirt below the knee for church/impress at dinner, going to town or villages, etc. We recommend light fabrics such as the sustainable bamboo dresses and skirts by Moso Morrow
• 1 Sarong (Lavalava) will be your best friend for hitting the beach and covering your swimwear in between swimming
• 1 or 2 Light sleepwear if you’re against sleeping in your undies
• 1 Light jacket/Cardigan/Pashmina for cooler evenings
• 1 Light fleece jumper something to keep warm after swimming from a boat
• 1 Sports shorts/Leggings for hiking/active activities, preferable to or below the knee
• 1 Sports T-shirt/Singlet for hiking/active activities
• 1 Outfit to travel between Tonga and home
• 3 Bras including strapless, sports and comfortable bras
• 6 Underwear
• 4 Socks
• 1 Bikini for resort beach/pool
• 1 One-piece for watersports
• 2 Boardshorts for guys
• 1 Rash vest (we like sustainable Sharkskin rashies)
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Flip-flops/Sandals
• Walking shoes/Sneakers
• Reef shoes/Water shoes.

And that’s just the clothes! For a full packing list of everything to take, including accessories and toiletries, check out The Complete Packing List for Tonga.

Health Products

With questionable drinking water, high UV levels and the presence of mosquitos, certain health products are essential to take to Tonga. Tonga also has a fragile marine ecosystem so natural sunscreens and repellents are a must, while reusable water purification bottles are preferable to buying bottled water for obvious environmental reasons. See our health essentials packing list in What Medication to Pack in Your First Aid Kit for Tonga, as well as tips for protecting the health of the environment in the 30 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Tonga.

Currency

The currency in Tonga is Tongan Pa’anga. You will need to be prepared to get by on cash for much of your stay as this is often the only payment method accepted. There are ATMs in the four main towns of Tonga. Get more money tips in What is The Best Way to Pay in Tonga?

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga?

For citizens of around 70 different countries, the answer is no. You just need to arrive in Tonga with a valid passport. Citizens not of visa-exempt countries will need an Entry Permit. Find out more about Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tonga? and what other paperwork to prepare in What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Tonga?

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How Long to Spend in Tonga

Tonga might make for an idyllic boutique resort getaway to simply relax for a few days  – and that’s fine; we all need to R&R from time to time. Most travellers, however, are here to explore and experience some of the most dramatic culture and wildlife experiences in the South Pacific. With that in mind, here’s what you can achieve in certain timeframes… (And don’t worry, we’ll get onto the destinations in the next few sections).

3 Days / A Long Weekend in Tonga

Over a long weekend, you have enough time to see the highlights of Tongatapu. Check out the Tonga Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: 3 Days for an example itinerary.

5 Days in Tonga

Start by exploring Tongatapu, then head to one of the outer islands, such as the nearby ‘Eua, for a couple of days. See the Tonga Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: 5 Days for an awesome trip idea.

7 Days / 1 Week in Tonga

Visit two island groups to experience two sides of Tonga. Flights and ferries connect the main four groups on a regular basis so take your pick! Get some inspiration on what to do and where to go from our Tonga Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: 7 Days / One Week.

14 Days / 2 Weeks in Tonga

Adventurous travellers can visit as many as four major island groups of Tonga. See the Tonga Budget & Backpacking Itinerary: 14 Days / Two Weeks for weeks of exciting experiences.

How Long Can You Stay in Tonga?

Visitors to Tonga can stay up to one month (30 days) or nationals from a Schengen member country can stay up to three months (90 days)! Visitor extensions are available, however, which you can learn more about in our guide, How Long Can You Stay in Tonga on a Visitor Visa?

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Which Islands to Visit: Budget Travel on Tongatapu

Tongatapu might be the main arrival island of Tonga, which has the bonus of being the cheapest island to get to, but there’s much more to it than that. Tongatapu is home to a wide array of free and cheap attractions, whether it’s the natural wonders of ‘Anahulu Cave, Mapua ‘a Vaea Blowholes or the Flying Foxes of Kolovai or historic sites like the Ha’amonga ‘a Maui Trilithon, Royal Tombs or the Abel Tasman Landing Site.

A good base for budget travellers is Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga, which has a wide variety of budget accommodations, eateries and supermarkets should you be self-catering. From here, you can hire a car, take the bus or jump on a tour to explore the island.

Learn more about a backpacking trip to Tongatapu and the capital in The Guide to Tongatapu on a Budget and The Guide to Nuku’alofa on a Budget.

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Which Islands to Visit: Budget Travel on ‘Eua

As if it were made for backpackers, ‘Eua is an island exclusively of budget accommodations and an excellent choice of free and cheap experiences. The island sits less than 20 km (11 mi) southeast of Tongatapu, taking half a day to ferry there. It’s Tonga’s oldest island, which has weathered some interesting natural features over millions of years, from natural arches to sinkholes to giant banyan trees.

For budget travellers, hiking is a good way to explore the island, especially in the ‘Eua National Park where you can look out for the red shining parrot, pass impressive sinkholes, and venture to stunning island lookouts.

That’s not to say that the must-dos in Tonga aren’t available in ‘Eua, as it has the longest-running whale season in Tonga for whale swimming. The island’s retreats also specialise in freediving and spearfishing, while the villages offer effortless cultural immersion.

Learn more about ‘Eua in The Guide to ‘Eua on a Budget.

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Which Islands to Visit: Budget Travel in Ha’apai

Although getting to this central island group in Tonga is a little more expensive than Tongatapu and ‘Eua, Ha’apai is a must-visit for budget travellers seeking sun, sea and sand. There are 62 islands in the island group, most of which are uninhabited including Uoleva Island which has a budget resort for travellers to get the “Robinson Crusoe” experience. Alternatively, guesthouses in the main town, Pangai, make for a good base to explore the island of Lifuka, its stunning sweeping sandy beaches and historical sites.

Stay at any of the waterfront accommodations in Ha’apai and you’ll spend your days snorkelling and kayaking for free. Otherwise, some resorts offer complimentary bike hire to explore the flat islands of Lifuka and Foa.

Those big-ticket activities like whale swimming, scuba diving and fishing are also available from Ha’apai, so you have some leftover budget to treat yourself with.

Dive further into planning a budget trip to Ha’apai with The Guide to Ha’apai on a Budget.

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Which Islands to Visit: Budget Travel in Vava’u

This northern island group in Tonga might be a little more expensive to get to, but it offers some of the top snorkelling spots, dive sites, sailing grounds, and fishing grounds in Tonga. Not that budget travellers will want to fork out too much on all of these activities, but they are certainly there to tempt you!

Alternatively in Vava’u, budget travellers can enjoy snorkelling tours to Swallows Cave, hike to Mt Talau from Neiafu or learn about some interesting tropical flora at the ‘Ene’io Botanical Garden.

The main town, Neiafu, has plenty of budget accommodations, as well as interesting sights like the local market on the waterfront and the historical Pouono Park. There are a couple of budget resorts in the island group too, such as the Beautiful Ofu Island Backpackers, where you can get that resort experience with kayaking and cultural shows for a more affordable price.

Learn more about visiting Vava’u in The Guide to Vava’u on a Budget.

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How to Get Around Tonga on a Budget

Tonga might not have an overwhelming number of island groups but the distance between each is quite substantial with around 180 km (110 mi) between Tongatapu and Ha’apai and 130 km (80 mi) between Ha’apai and Vava’u. Not to mention, Tonga’s larger islands are well worth exploring in their own right. So how do you get around Tonga?

Domestic Flights

To get between island groups, flights operate daily except Sundays. They are the fastest and most comfortable way to get between islands, so naturally, the most expensive option. Learn more about flying between the island groups in The Guide to Domestic Flights in Tonga and see prices in How Much Does it Cost to Fly in Tonga?

Interisland Ferries

Cargo-style boats and barge ferries travel between Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Ha’apai and Vava’u several times a week. They are cheaper than flying but trips can last several hours. See The Guide to Travelling in Tonga by Ferry to learn much more about this transport method and see prices in How Much Do Ferries Cost in Tonga?

Car Rental

Car rental is readily available in Tongatapu and Vava’u, but a little harder to find in ‘Eua and Ha’apai unless you know where to look. Find out everything you need to know about hiring in What You Need to Hire a Car in Tonga. Plus, get some money-saving advice from our 10 Ways to Save Money on Car Rental in Tonga.

Bicycle Rental

Exploring Tonga’s relatively flat islands at a more natural pace is a fun way to get around. Bicycle rentals are available in Tongatapu and Vava’u, while some resorts in Ha’apai offer complimentary bike hire for guests. Find out more about getting your peddle on in The Guide to Cycling in Tonga.

Taxis

Taxis are available in Tongatapu and Vava’u. Ask for the going rate, as many don’t use meters. See The Guide to Taxis in Tonga for more tips and Taxi Prices in Tonga: The Costs You Need to Know for fares.

Bus

Buses are ultra-cheap, providing a local experience to get around Tongatapu. We have a guide for that too, in How to Travel Around Tonga By Bus, as well as prices in How Much Does it Cost to Travel Tonga by Bus?

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is legal in Tonga. However, it is one of the least reliable forms of transport because you’re likely to get a few rides to get anywhere far. Nevertheless, it’s quite the adventure if you can make it work! Learn more about hitchhiking in A Travellers’ Guide to Hitchhiking in Tonga.

There are a lot more ways to travel around Tonga between resort transfers, guided tours, bicycle rental and even multi-day kayaking tours so be sure to browse our Tonga Transport Guide: 15 Ways to Get Around Tonga for more advice.

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Where to Stay: Cheap Accommodation in Tonga

Tonga’s budget accommodations are intimate. Choose from cheap beachfront resorts typically consisting of only two to seven fales (bungalows), while guesthouses provide an affordable and homely experience. Holiday homes, budget hotels and even backpacker hostels are also available in Tonga.

Discover the cheapest accommodations across the islands in the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in Tonga and see how to find cheap stays in How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Tonga.

Budget Resorts

The term “resort” is used rather loosely in Tonga, meaning that even budget fales (beach huts) are classed as a resort. Some may have either an à la carte restaurant or a dining fale where shared meals are served, while free use of watersports equipment is almost always a given. Some resorts will also offer their own paid experiences, from cultural activities to snorkelling trips.

Learn more about what to expect from Tonga’s resorts in How to Pick the Best Resort in Tonga for You. Plus, don’t miss the 10 Best Budget Resorts in Tonga.

Guesthouses

Found in each island group’s main towns, guesthouses are usually owned by locals, providing affordable and authentic Tongan hospitality. Guests have a private room, sometimes with an ensuite, and share communal facilities like a kitchen and bathroom.

Find out more about their facilities in How to Pick the Best Guesthouse in Tonga for You, as well as our top picks in the 20 Best Guesthouses in Tonga.

Budget Hotels

Although there is the odd international-style hotel, most hotels in Tonga are budget and are available in the two largest towns, Nuku’alofa and Neiafu.

Check out How to Pick the Best Hotel in Tonga for You for more of an overview or jump straight to our favourites in the 25 Best Hotels in Tonga.

Backpacker Hostels

Backpacker accommodations consisting of dorms and private rooms with communal facilities can only be found on the island of Tongatapu. They are some of your cheapest accommodations in Tonga, which you can learn more about in How to Pick the Best Backpacker Accommodation in Tonga for You. See our top recommendations in the 10 Best Backpacker Hostels in Tonga.

Holiday Homes

For groups seeking their own space and perhaps conveniences like self-catering facilities, choose one of the holiday homes in Tonga. Holiday homes can be cost-effective for large groups and families.

Check out How to Pick the Best Holiday Home in Tonga for You for more details. Plus, be sure to browse the 10 Best Holiday Homes in Tonga.

Other Cheap Accommodations in Tonga

For a complete listing of Tonga’s budget accommodation types all in one place, check out the 20 Best Budget Accommodations in Tonga.

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Free and Cheap Things to Do in Tonga

Tonga hooks most travellers with the prospect of swimming with humpback whales but there’s much more to this island nation. You never know, after browsing our 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List you might just realise that there are amazing experiences even outside of the whale season.

Free and Cheap Activities in Tonga

When it comes to experiences that you can enjoy for free or at least very cheaply, here are the highlights:

• Snorkel in crystal clear waters with coral and tropical fish
• Enjoy island hikes in the ‘Eua National Park
• Visit natural attractions like the Mapu ‘a Vaea Blowholes
• Swim at the stunning ‘Anahulu Limestone Cave
• Check out historical sites like the Ha’amonga ‘a Maui
• Learn Tongan handicrafts with local villagers
• Browse the Tongan handicraft and produce markets
• Try some Tongan cheap eats in Nuku’alofa.

Get more inspiration for ways to enjoy Tonga on the cheap in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Tonga.

Other Activities in Tonga (If You Have the Budget)

• Swimming with whales – Take boat tours to snorkel with whales between July and October
• Scuba diving – Choose from tens of dive sites, from coral formations to caves
• Snorkelling – Snorkel over coral reefs from shore or on snorkelling boat tours
• Kitesurfing – Ha’apai and Vava’u offer flat lagoons and ideal trade winds for kitesurfing
• Game fishing – The South Pacific’s largest pelagics can be caught on fishing charters in Tonga
• Sailing – Tonga and especially Vava’u are some of the most iconic sailing grounds in the South Pacific
• Kayaking & SUP – Hire these watersports equipment from your resort to explore the coast and reefs
• Surfing – Hit uncrowded reef breaks on Tongatapu and Vava’u or do some beach surfing in Ha’apai
• Cultural tours – Take part in traditions, see crafting and food demonstrations
• Cultural shows – Experience an iconic Tongan floor show accompanied by an umu feast
• Museums & art galleries – See ancient relics and Tongan artwork on display
• Spa treatments – Visit a day spa or get a massage at your resort’s beachfront massage fale.

Again, start making your bucket list with the 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga.

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Food in Tonga

Food is an integral part of the Tongan culture. Despite there being limited dining options outside of main centres like Nuku’alofa and Neiafu, accommodation hosts will ensure you won’t go hungry by either providing homecooked meals of Tongan fare or boasting their own restaurant with an international menu. Everything you need to know about food in Tonga can be found in The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

Restaurants and Cafes

Tonga’s restaurants can be found in Nuku’alofa and Neiafu, as well as some of its resorts. They typically have international influences, such as Italian, American, British, Chinese and more, as well as local Tongan dishes. Check out our top dining picks in the 20 Best Restaurants in Tonga, as well as the best-value dining experiences in The Top Cheap Eats in Tonga.

Self-Catering

Self-catering is often an option with many accommodations offering some sort of cooking facilities. Travellers can pick up food from small supermarkets, fale koloa (convenience stores), and produce markets. Get advice on self-catering in our guide, A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Tonga.

Special Diets

With tropical vegetables and coconut cream being staple ingredients in Tonga, vegans and gluten-intolerant diners are usually doable in Tonga but you will struggle to find dishes on restaurant menus that cater to various diets. Those with dietary health issues should let accommodation hosts know about any dietary requirements before arrival. Check out Tonga for Vegans & Vegetarians + 10 Best Restaurants, as well as The Gluten-Free Guide to Tonga for more advice.

What Food to Try

And what are the foods worth trying in Tonga? Tongan food can be sampled at Tongan restaurants, cultural shows and buffets, locally-owned supermarkets, and markets and roadside stalls, particularly on a Saturday. Check out which meals to look out for in the 10 Unique Foods in Tonga You Have to Try, as well as drinks in the 10 Drinks in Tonga You Have to Try!

Food and Water Safety

Tourist accommodations in Tonga tend to have access to safe drinking water, whether it’s a jug of filtered water at reception or the option to buy bottled water. See Is the Water Safe to Drink in Tonga? for more advice. Food in Tonga is generally cooked to safe hygiene standards, but check out Tonga Safety Tips for precautions to take.

Want to know more about dining in Tonga? Head to The Food Guide to Tonga: Places to Eat & Food Tours.

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Typical Costs and Travel Budget: Is Tonga Expensive?

We all travel very differently. Therefore, making a precise budget for everyone is, quite frankly, an impossible task. Nevertheless, you can work out your own needs, thus budget, by simply looking at the typical prices listed below or in our article, Tonga Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Tonga Cost?

The Cost of Accommodation

• Dorm bed/night – TOP$40-$70
• Guesthouse double room/night – TOP$70-$90
• Guesthouse double ensuite/night – TOP$100-$120
• Guesthouse family room/night – TOP$120-$200
• 3-star hotel double ensuite/night – TOP$240-$360
• 4-star hotel double ensuite/night – TOP$400-$600
• Budget resort fale double room/night – TOP$80-$150
• 3/4-star resort fale double room/night – TOP$250-$1,200
• Resort fale family room/night – TOP$290-$1,200
• Sailing charter/night – TOP$1,860.

The Cost of Food

• Main breakfast meal – TOP$9-$29
• Main lunch meal – TOP$15-$30
• Main dinner meal – TOP$22-$60
• Dessert – TOP$10-$15
• Cultural show and buffet – TOP$50-$100
• Pint of beer – TOP$8-$12
• Glass of wine – TOP$15.50-$19
• Small coffee – TOP$5-$8
• Soft drink – TOP$5-$7
• Resort meal plan full-board/day – TOP$170-$290.

Grocery prices for self-catering can be found in What is the Cost of Food in Tonga?

The Cost of Tours and Activities

All activity prices are per person unless stated otherwise.

• Guided land sightseeing tour – TOP$100-$300
• Guided land sightseeing tour/vehicle – TOP$350-$600
• Guided hike – TOP$50-$70 (usually donation)
• Culture tour or workshop/3 hours – TOP$20-$75
• Botanical garden tour – TOP$150
• Cultural show & buffet – TOP$50-$100
• ‘Anahulu Cave entry – TOP$15
• Tonga National Museum entry – TOP$5
• Vanilla plantation tour – TOP$20
• Horse riding – TOP$60
• Massage/60 minutes – TOP$90-$160
• Whale swimming tour – TOP$400-$700
• Scuba diving/two-tank – TOP$250-$420
• Spearfishing and fishing – TOP$150-$370
• Game fishing/half-day charter – TOP$2,360-$2,540
• Boat sightseeing/snorkelling tour – TOP$150-$200
• Pangaimotu Island day trip – TOP$50
• Kayak tour/day – TOP$220.

The Cost of Transport

• Bicycle rental/day – TOP$0-$35
• Scooter rental/day – TOP$50-$55
• Car rental/day – TOP$50-$200
• Public bus/trip – TOP$0.80-$3.50
• Taxi/first kilometre – TOP$3.50-$4.10/
  Continuous km – TOP$1.20-1.40/km
• Accommodation/airport transfers/person – TOP$0-$100
• Ferry/ ‘Eua to Tongatapu – TOP$30
  Ha’apai to Tongatapu – TOP$70-$80
  Vava’u to Tongatapu – TOP$90-$100
  Tongatapu to The Niuas – TOP$150
  Vava’u to Ha’apai – TOP$80-$90
• Boat charter/ Lifuka to Uoleva – TOP$250
• Island resort airport transfer – TOP$50-$200
• Flight/Tongatapu to Vava’u – TOP$340-$390/adult, TOP$230-$295/child, TOP$35/infant
  Tongatapu to Ha’apai – TOP$240-$260/adult, TOP$160-$180/child, TOP$25/infant
  Tongatapu to ‘Eua – TOP$100/adult, TOP$50/child, TOP$10/infant.

Again, check out our guide, Tonga Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to Tonga Cost? for more budget tips and costs.

Spending Money for Tonga

Here are a few averages for a daily budget for Tonga. These include food, activities, transport and miscellaneous expenses. Each price is per person per day:

• Budget daily budget: TOP$150
• Mid-range daily budget: TOP$295
• Luxury daily budget: TOP$460+

We break down the budgets further in How Much Spending Money Do You Need for Tonga?