Tonga consists of 176 islands ranging from high volcanic to low coral terrain create scenic variety seldom matched elsewhere in the world. The islands are divided into four groups and bordered on the east by the deep Tongan Trench.

Nuku'alofa, the capital, is located on the main island of Tongatapu. It is more developed than its neighbors but still maintains an unhurried and peaceful lifestyle.

Further south from the equator than islands such as Samoa, Tonga has a cooler and more comfortable climate. It receives less rain than other tropical areas, and maximum temperatures average 80oF with only moderate humidity. The rainy season lasts from December to April when temperatures and humidity are higher (most extreme from January to March). The greatest number of thunderstorms occur in December and February. Annual rainfall at Nuku'alofa averages 58 inches, with as much as ten inches falling in April and as little as one inch in May and July. Vava'u is the wettest group. In contrast, ... Read More...