Getting Around Tonga

Air

REALtonga (realtonga.to) runs domestic flights across Tonga.

Road

Side of the road

Road Quality

There is a good network of metalled roads, although with some potholes. Speed limits are low compared to Europe and North America and are generally observed.

Car Hire

May be arranged through various agencies. Self-drive or chauffeur-driven cars are available.

Taxi

Saloon-car taxis, minimokes and minibuses are available. Taxis may not be marked, but you can identify them by the letter 'T' at the beginning of the number plate. They aren't metered, so make sure you agree the fare before departure.

Regulations

The minimum driving age is 18. Speed limits are 30kph (19mph) on roads around schools and pedestrian areas, 50kph (31mph) on main roads and 70kph (43mph) in quieter rural areas.

Documentation

A Tongan visitor driver's licence is required, available from the Ministry of Transport in Nuku'alofa on production of a valid national or international licence.

Urban travel

Used mainly by visitors, buses can be a fun way to get around the island. If you see one passing, you can wave it down.

Rail

Water

Local ferries sail between all the island groups. There are regular sailings from Faua Wharf in Nuku'alofa to Ha'apai and Vava'u. Ferry schedules are subject to change according to demand or the weather.

Water taxis also sail between islands, and private yacht charters are available.