Land Tours in Vava’u
One of the best ways to see Vava’u is by doing a guided land tour. Vava’u is home to fascinating historical sites, breathtaking lookouts, creepy caves and a variety of landscapes. Joining a local guide for a tour of the island is a great way to get some real insights into the culture, heritage and scenery of the islands without the hassle of figuring out where to go by yourself. There are all kinds of guided tours in Vava’u, from walking tours of the main town, full-day driving tours of the highlights, and even self-driven UTV tours to some of Vava’u’s more remote locations! Compare your options in the list below.
While you’re here, you might also like The Complete Guide to Vava’u! Plus, get inspired for more things to do with the 10 Must-Dos in Vava’u.
1. Port of Refuge Villas Tours
Port of Refuge Villas not only provides affordable accommodation on a hilltop in Neiafu, but the hosts also offer tours of Vava’u. Part of their offerings is a sightseeing tour where you’ll be driven around with your local guide to check out interesting landmarks around the main islands of Vava’u. The full-day experience includes a stop at a beach for swimming and snorkelling. A minimum of two people is required for this tour to go ahead. Learn more about their accommodation in the 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Vava’u.
(c) Yvette's
2. Moana Island Tours
Discover the best of Vava’u’s cultural, historical and natural heritage in a land tour with Moana Island Tours. Their day tours with a local include a stop by the Royal Residences where the royal family stay when visiting Vava’u. You’ll visit a local school, check out Vava’u’s hospital-with-a-view, and visit plantations to learn all about the island’s yams, taro and coconut. Finally, you’ll get time to relax, swim and snorkel on one of the best beaches of the main islands. Other items on the itinerary include watching women’s weaving groups, various scenic lookouts and more. It’s one of the most comprehensive tours available in Vava’u! Tours depart from the main wharf in Vava’u.
(c) Tonga Ministry of Tourism
3. ‘Ene’io Botanical Garden Tour
Join the former Director for Agriculture and Forestry, Haniteli Fa’anunu, for an insightful guided tour of his beautifully curated ‘Ene’io Botanical Gardens. Culture meets nature on his guided walking tours of a tropical garden. Learn about Haniteli’s interesting life story, as well as about tropical plants and their many benefits on a guided garden tour. Another popular option is the Polynesian Cultural Tours which includes a guided garden tour, cultural demonstrations and lunch. The gardens and its restaurant are also open on Sundays for a Tongan feast. Pick-ups are offered from Neiafu. Otherwise, make your way to the east side of Vava’u Island, south of Tu’anikivale to find the gardens. We also recommend the garden tour in the 10 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Vava’u.
(c) tongapocketguide.com
[CLOSED] Explore Vava’u
[Update: Explore Vava’u no longer offers land tours].
A guided land tour with a difference, Explore Vava’u offers exciting tours of Vava’u’s main island on UTVs and quad bikes! Follow your guide on this self-drive kart tour through the islands’ remote countryside. Drive through kava and taro plantations, through bush and down dirt roads to stunning viewpoints in the northern and eastern parts of ‘Utu Vava’u (the main island). Alternatively, if you don’t feel like driving yourself, they also offer van tours to take you to the lookouts, the Veimumuni Cave, as well as the base of Mt Talau for a short hike in the Mt Talau National Park. Explore Vava’u also run boat tours and snorkelling trips from their base at the wharf by the Mango Cafe, as well as from Mandala Resort. Check out their boat tours in the 10 Best Boat Tours of Vava’u.
[CLOSED] About Vava’u
[Update: This tour company is no longer operating].
When you arrive in Neiafu, go visit About Vava’u in their office in the central Guttenbiel Plaza for a great introduction to the islands. They offer free tours of the historical Pouono Park where you’ll get some incredible insights into the history and culture of Tonga. If you enjoy the experience, then you can always book onto one of their other guided tours of Vava’u, including a Saturday Morning Market Tour, a Neiafu Walking Tour, as well as half-day and full-day Island Tours checking out the main highlights of Vava’u.
More About Guided Tours of Vava’u
