Tonga Culture

Social Conventions

Tongan people have known worldwide for their welcoming and relaxed nature as well as their immense musical talents. They are very proud of their people and their culture and are very hospitable. It is interesting that approximately 98% of the population are pure Polynesian. Also, women are treasured in Tonga and have greater social standing than their male counterparts.

There are two different ways of life in Tonga: anga fakatonga and anga fakapálangi. Anga fakatonga is the traditional way of life, while anga fakapálangi is considered to be the Western way. These two ways are often at odds with each other and as such, a culturally aware Tongan knows how to exist in both and when to switch between them.

Language

There are two indigenous languages found in Tonga: Niuafo’ou and Tongan, however, the two official languages are Tongan and English as Niuafo’ou is only spoken on the northernmost island that shares its name.

English is taught in most schools and is spoken in the main towns. All government documents are required to be published in both English and Tongan.

 Religion

Tongans attend church regularly and on Sundays, a strict Sabbath is observed: there is no trade (unless it is an essential service), sports are prohibited and planes do not fly. Church in Tonga is not only about the spiritual needs of the community, it is also a major part of the social culture found on the islands.

The majority of the population (including the royal family) are part of the Free Wesleyan Church which is a Methodist denomination. There are four other branches of Methodism in Tonga and the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints also have strong followings. Some Tongans follow the Bahá’i Faith as well as the Anglican Seventh-Day Adventist Church with a small number of Muslims too.

Tonga Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Tonga. 

Learn about the history and culture of Tonga., the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Tonga's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, and 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Tonga. for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Tonga vacations today!

Extend Your Stay

Consider an additional stopover after or before one of your Tonga tours at one of Goway's other South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages, one of our Fiji resorts or perhaps take a Cook Island vacation. 

Book your Tonga Vacation with Goway!

Goway’s Downunder wizards can offer you many ways to explore and enjoy Tonga. Choose from a simple island stopover and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Tonga.