Where to Walk in Tonga
There’s never a lack of sandy beaches, quaint villages or small towns to explore in Tonga on foot. However, if you’re looking for a real walk or hiking mission, then there are a few hikes and walks in Tonga that we can suggest. Take a look at the list below of the walks and hikes in Tonga to challenge yourself with and experience some of the best scenery in The Kingdom.
1. Rock Garden Hike, ‘Eua
The first of many great hikes on the island of ‘Eua, the Rock Garden Hike features unusual rock formations, wild horses, red shining parrots, the Li’angahuo ‘a Maui Natural Archway, the dramatic Laku Fa’anga Cliffs and more. The walk can be tackled independently, with many of the island’s accommodations offering transfers to and from the trail, or as a guided walk. Check out the details of this walk in the 5 Best Hikes in ‘Eua.
Location: Southern coast of ‘Eua
(c) tongapocketguide.com2. Toloa Rainforest Reserve, Tongatapu
Well maintained forest trails wind their way through the 6ha (14-acre) Toloa Rainforest Reserve in Tongatapu. Located on the grounds of the Tupou College near Fua’amotu Airport, the rainforest is one of the last remaining natural forests in Tonga. There are interpretation panels along the trail to indicate particular plant species, some of which you can’t find anywhere else. You’re likely to see butterflies and flying foxes along the trail.
Location: Follow signposts for Tupou College from Tuku’Aho Road between Fua’amotu Airport and Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu
(c) tongapocketguide.com3. Uolevu Island, Ha’apai
There are many small islands across Tonga with accommodation and plenty of opportunities to walk across or around the island. Just one example is Uoleva Island in the Ha’apai group. Not only does this island have around five different accommodations to base yourself but there are several options to cut across the island to experience the island’s interior forest and reach more snorkelling spots. Alternatively, you can walk around the perimeter of the island which is approximately 10km (6 miles).
Location: Uoleva Island, accessible by resort boats from Lifuka, Ha’apai
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism4. Fangatave Beach & Caves, ‘Eua
Another fantastic hike on the island of ‘Eua, the Fangtave Beach & Caves hike is an adventurous scramble down rocks until you reach the beach. First, you’ll reach a view of Kahana Spring, before exploring some 11 caves on your way down to the beach. While some attempt this hike independently, it’s easy to get lost so a guide is recommended. Get more in-depth information on this walk in the 5 Best Hikes in ‘Eua.
Location: Northeast coast of ‘Eua
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism5. Mt Talau, Vava’u
A short walk, or shorter walk if you drive, awaits in the town of Neiafu in Vava’u. Mt Talau is a towering peak at 131m (430ft) and an established national park. Either walk from the town centre, which is approximately 20 minutes or drive/take a taxi to the start of the official walk which is a 10-20-minute climb to the top. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a viewing deck overlooking Neiafu, the Neiafu Harbour, the Port of Refuge and the islands beyond.
Location: From Neiafu, Vava’u, follow Tapueluefu Road for approximately 2km (1.2 miles) until you see the entrance signs for the Mt Talau National Park
(c) tongapocketguide.com6. Tofua Island, Ha’apai
The most adventurous hikers can hire boat transport to get to the western Ha’apai island of Tofua, which is incidentally Tonga’s most active volcano. With a guide, it’s possible to hike to the caldera of this large island and take in the wonderful surrounding views.
Location: Western islands of Ha’apai
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism7. Kao Island, Ha’apai
Neighbouring Tofua Island, Kao Island is Tonga’s highest peak at 1,030m (3,379ft). It makes for a difficult hike to the top, but those who make it are rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighbouring Tofua Island. Special boat transport and a guide are recommended for this excursion.
Location: Western islands of Ha’apai
(c) Crys on Flickr8. Forest Plantation Hike, ‘Eua
This hike on the eastern side of ‘Eua takes you deep into a planted forest with a huge variety of trees, from pines to cedars, gum trees to sandalwood. There are also pockets of original forest to admire. The giant ‘Ovava Tree and Hafu Pool are some of the interesting features of this walk. See the 5 Best Hikes in ‘Eua for more details on this walk.
Location: Eastern side of ‘Eua. Down the road east of Taina’s Place
(c) tongapocketguide.com9. Lokupo Beach & ‘Eua National Park, ‘Eua
With a full-day hike and an extension of the Forest Plantation Hike (mentioned above), the walks in the ‘Eua National Park are simply stunning. A guide is a must to keep you on the right rough trails through the forest, which features several breathtaking viewpoints, a cave and a trail down to the remote Lokupo Beach. Get a full description of the walk in the 5 Best Hikes in ‘Eua.
Location: Eastern side of ‘Eua. Down the road east of Taina’s Place
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism10. Hilltop Hike, Niuatoputapu
And for the traveller who wants to see the “real” South Pacific, travel to the far-flung island of Niuatoputapu with traditional villages, pristine sandy beaches and more. You can walk to the 157m (516ft) peak of the island, which is an eroded volcano, to get some awesome views of the surrounding island, Pacific Ocean and the nearby Tafahi Island. In fact, you can take a fishing boat over to Tafahi Island and ask the villagers to show you where to hike to the top of that island, which is 560m (1,840ft) high! Find out more about this intriguing island group in The Complete Guide to The Niuas.
Location: Niuatoputapu in The Niuas
(c) Eunice PongipongiMore About Walks and Hikes in Tonga
- 5 Best Islands for Nature in Tonga
- 10 Best Natural Attractions in Tonga
- The Most Beautiful Swimming Holes in Tonga
That’s it for the best walks and hikes in Tonga. Inspire yourself with more experiences with the 101 Best Things to Do in Tonga: The Ultimate List. Plus, get even more tips in The Complete Travel Guide to Tonga.
