10-day Tonga tour to Ha'apai island and including 3 boat trips to swim with humpback whales
Highlights
Opportunities to swim with humpback whales spread over 3 days, snorkelling gear, kayak & SUP hire, 2 hour off-grid tour, relaxing beach time
Itinerary
Upon arrival in the Kingdom of Tonga we'll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
OVERNIGHT:
Tongatapu hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Extra day in Tongatapu - pre-tour
After breakfast you will be transferred to the domestic terminal for your scenic flight to the beautiful and remote islands of Ha'apai. The local team will be waiting at the Ha'apai airport to transfer you to your beachfront fale at Kite Surf Tonga, home for the next 7 nights.
The rest of the day is free to settle in, explore, try some snorkelling off the beach and attend an informative whale briefing in preparation for your excursion tomorrow. In the evening, watch the sunset from your beachfront property.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast we board our whale watching vessel (see tour notes for more information about the vessel we use) at 8.30 to 9am for a 6-hour trip on the water. Your professional guides are eager to introduce the majestic Tongan Humpback whales. Our aim is to take you into the water for memories that will last a lifetime. Lunch is served onboard and all equipment is provided. Arriving back at around 2.30pm allows time to relax and look at your photos, take a walk along the beach and enjoy a cold drink from the bar. Dinner is normally served just after sunset.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
King George Tupou I pledged The Kingdom of Tonga and its people to heaven making Sunday a strict day of rest in the kingdom. It is actually illegal to work on the Sabbath. You can chose to begin your day by visiting a local church to hear the angelic voices of the choir or simply enjoy a day of your choice. The resort is open all day and swimming, snorkeling, cycling, kayaking, eating and drinking are all options for this restful day in Tonga.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast we head out for our second day into the crystal clear waters of Ha'apai to join the Humpback whales for further adventures and memories of a lifetime. Excellent food is provided in our ocean front restaurant as we share our experiences of the day.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast we head out for our final day into the crystal clear waters of Ha'apai to join the Humpback whales for further adventures and memories of a lifetime.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
Your day is free today to relax at the resort. We keep this free in case any of your earlier whale swims need rescheduling due to weather issues. If all has gone to plan, then your day is free and you could ride a bike, hire a car and explore the island's resorts, other snorkeling spots, beaches or the local cafe. Or you may simply relax at the resort - scuba diving, sea kayaks or snorkel the reef in front of the resort are options. An additional whale swimming trip may also be booked with the resort (subject to existing bookings and space on the boat).
Also today, a 2 hour off-grid tour is included where you will learn about how the resort has embraced sustainability, with detailed explanations of their solar setup, composting techniques and a visit to the hydroponic fruit and vegetable gardens.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
Your day is free today to relax on the beach, go cycling or kayaking, scuba diving or snorkelling. We also keep today free in case poor weather or other reasons have meant we need to reschedule one of our earlier whale safaris. You can also book additional safaris while at the resort if you wish.
Excellent food is provided in the resort's ocean front restaurant and a farewell bonfire is lit as the Milky Way falls across the night sky.
OVERNIGHT:
Fales at Kite Surf Tonga
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
This morning we fly back to the main island of Tongatapu and transfer to our hotel.
Options are available through your hotel to book a half day island tour. Here you can learn more about Tongan lifestyle, culture, heritage and traditions, see demonstrations and learn about the customs and stories of the old times and visit the busy Tongan Market where the locals throng to purchase and sell their produce. The market provides a great opportunity to purchase handicrafts, local fruit and take photos. Tours also visit the Royal Tombs where the late King George IV is laid to rest, along with the Royal Palace, and the Eastern Side of Tonga with Captain Cook's Landing, the Ancient Burial Tomb's and the Ha'amonga Trilithon, a stone arch which was said to have been built 1200AD, an impressive movement of 80 tonnes of stone and a story of a warrior king.
In the evening you could visit the Ohelei Beach Resort for a Tongan feast, cultural show and live music to make you feel right at home in with the Tongan culture and history.
OVERNIGHT:
Tongatapu hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Free time until transferring to the airport for your international departure flight. You may wish to revisit the main Tongatapu market today, as Saturday tends to be the busiest time of the whole week, a great chance for a final taste of Tonga and some souvenirs.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
included with
Meals as stated in the itinerary
Domestic flight tickets
2 nights accommodation on Tongatapu
7 nights accommodation in Fales at Kite Surf Tonga in Ha'apai
3 boat trips to swim with the whales
Snorkelling equipment
Free stand-up paddleboard and kayak hire
Free snorkelling gear hire
2-hour off-grid tour at Kite Surf Tonga
24-hour return airport transfers
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not included in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses
Any tips or gratuities for your tour leaders/guides
Any other items not mentioned above
Extras /
Upgrades
Single room supplement
Extra day in Tongatapu - pre-tour
Extra day in Tongatapu - post-tour
Detailed Description
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Tonga tour, offering you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of humpback whales. As these majestic creatures grace the shores of Tonga to breed, give birth, and engage in social gatherings, you'll have the privilege of swimming alongside them in the crystalline waters that surround these idyllic islands. This unparalleled experience promises not only exhilarating encounters with marine giants but also the chance to witness their awe-inspiring behaviors up close.
Your journey includes 3 days of exhilarating whale swimming safaris, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives of these magnificent creatures. Guided by seasoned experts, you'll navigate the pristine oceanic depths, where every moment holds the potential for an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. From witnessing their graceful movements to hearing the haunting melodies of their songs echoing through the water, every aspect of this experience is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Amidst the excitement of your adventures, ample time is set aside for relaxation and rejuvenation on some of the world's most pristine beaches. Whether you're basking in the sun's warm embrace or exploring the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling, these moments of tranquility provide the perfect balance to your action-packed itinerary. We include 2 free days at your Ha'apai Resort where stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are available for your use. We also include a 2 hour off-grid tour where you will learn about the ways in which the resort has embraced sustainability, with detailed explanations of their solar setup, composting techniques and a visit to the hydroponic fruit and vegetable gardens.
The timing of our Tonga tours coincides with the whales' annual migration season, which spans from July to October. To accommodate varying schedules and preferences, we offer several group departures during this period. However, for those seeking a more personalized experience, we're delighted to arrange private and tailor-made tours upon request. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply prefer a more intimate setting, our team is dedicated to crafting an unforgettable journey that exceeds your expectations.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife encounters, Tonga beckons adventurers from around the globe to discover its wonders. Join us on this extraordinary expedition, where every moment promises discovery, wonder, and the chance to forge lifelong memories amidst the splendor of the South Pacific.
