Getting around Tonga

REAL Tonga is the Kingdom’s national domestic carrier established with the purpose of serving the people of Tonga and its visitors.  It has secured the lease of two (2) 17-seater Y-12 aircraft for the commencement of its domestic air operations.

Real Tonga has access to a 9-seater BN2 Islander, a 19-seater DHC6 Twin Otter and a 68-seater ATR72-500 aircraft. These will be introduced in accordance with passenger demand. 

They are committed to ensuring that domestic air transport in our Kingdom is not disrupted, and that it has available adequate seat capacity to cope with Customer demand.

REAL Tonga provides air services to the five major island groups of ‘Eua, Ha’apai, Vava’u, Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou.

Flights:

Tongatapu to Vava’u: Twice daily
Tongatapu to Ha’apai: Once daily
Tongatapu to ‘Eua: Twice daily (AM and PM, an ideal flight for a day trip)
Tongatapu to the Niuas’: Once a week

Note: Flights to the two Niuas will commence in April 2013. There are no flights anywhere on Sunday.    
Click here for the Flight Schedule

Enquiries & Bookings:

REAL Tonga Head Office
Tungi Colonnade, Nuku’alofa, Tonga
REAL – Tonga / Palu Aviation Services Ltd
Phone: +676 23777
Booking Enquiry: booking@realtonga.to
General Enquiry: info@realtonga.to

Vava’u
Maama Mo’onia Hall, Neiafu
Phone: +676 71115

Ha’apai
Airport
Phone: +676 60494
Mobile: +676 7765452

‘Eua
ATS Office – Airport
Phone: +676 7718872

Niua Toputapu
ATS Office – Airport
Phone: +676 7585074

Niua Fo’ou
ATS Office – Airport                                                                                
Real Tonga Head Office
Tungi Colonnade, Nuku’alofa, Tonga
REAL – Tonga / Palu Aviation Services Ltd
Phone:  +676 23777

For more information on Real Tonga please visit our website: www.realtonga.to

Ferry Services

Most of the Island groups are serviced by inter island ferries, these are mainly used by the Tongan people as an affordable means of transport. These ferries also carry cargo and livestock etc. and provide a vital link between the island groups. Visitors to Tonga can also travel on these ferries, most of which depart from Queen Salote Wharf in Nuku’alofa. Tickets are generally sold on board and also note there are no sailings on Sundays.

Water Taxis

One way or round trip transfers between islands on fast, reliable and comfortable speed boats fitted with modern safety equipment will take you to your destination in comfort and style. More information.

Bus Services

Once again like the ferries, the bus services are mainly used by locals and because there are no scheduled timetables visitors tend to find their use as a means of transport frustrating. Buses run from between 8am and 5pm and can be waved down. Local knowledge about how to use the service is a real advantage and both locals and the drivers are only too happy to assist in this area.

Taxis

There are many taxis throughout Tonga with the majority based in Tongatapu. Taxis are often unmarked and are identified by the letter T at the beginning of the number plate.

Taxis are not metered and it is important to always agree on the fare before departure. An acceptable fare from the International Airport to downtown Nuku’alofa would be $30 and short trips around the capital $5-$6. Taxis can also be hired for a half or full day for sightseeing.

Tours

A great way to get around Tonga and also experience some of the places of historical, ecological and cultural interest is to book an organised tour. Various Tour companies on all the major island groups operate sightseeing tours using minibuses or 4×4 vehicles. In Vava’u, Ha’apai and Tongatapu you can also organise boat tours to the outer islands of their group. 
Jones Travel & Tours
Rising Sun Tours & Travel