Tonga

Use Normal Level of Caution

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.

Currency	TOP: Paʻanga
Language	English and Tongan
Capital	Nukuʻalofa
Recent Alerts	1
Latest Alert	July 08, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Tonga (8 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Tonga. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

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.
Hepatitis B There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Tonga.
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.
Dengue Fever Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.
Chikungunya Fever Chikungunya fever has occurred in Tonga.
Rabies Rabies may be present in bats.
Zika Fever Zika fever can occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Tonga.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
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.
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.).

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Tonga.

None required.

Safety and Security in Tonga

Emergency Numbers

922

(676) 26-494 For non-urgent reports

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.

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.

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Sitata uses advanced software algorithms to monitor the world for disease outbreaks and safety hazards. Each travel alert published by Sitata is reviewed by staff to ensure it meets the concerns of a traveller.

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Updated: July 09, 2021