Excursion Historical experience tour at Nuku Alofa

Discover Tongatapu's rich historical and cultural legacy on a tour that includes stops by Captain Cook's Landing Place, the Ha'amonga 'a Maui stone formation, terraced tombs of former kings and the country's Royal Palace.

Begin your half day shore excursion with a bus ride to the spot where British sea captain James Cook landed in 1777 on what he nicknamed the “Friendly Islands, “after the courteous inhabitants of Tonga. Hear tales of how he slept under the Malumalu 'o Fulilangi banyan tree and see the lagoon where he docked his sailing ship more than 200 years ago.

Next, travel to see Ha'amonga 'a Maui, a massive coral limestone trilithon built in the early 13th century that, according to oral chronicles, served as the gateway to the king's compound.

On your trip back to port, stop at terraced langi (tombs) and see where his majesty King George Tupou I, founder of modern Tonga, is buried at the Royal Tombs complex. Make a final photo stop outside the whitewashed Royal Palace, official residence of Tonga's king, before making your way back to the ship.

Points of interests

points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Palace, Royal Tomb, Captain Cook Landing, Stone Hence (Haamonga), Terrance Tombs

Note

Please note that this tour involves moderate activity with limited walking for approx. 10-20 yards and some rough and unpaved surfaces. While venues are wheelchair accessible, guests must be able to embark and disembark the vehicle without assistance, and those confined to a wheelchair require advanced notice and a companion to assist. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable clothers and closed toe walking shoes. A shopping stop is included where handicrafts can be purchased with USD only. The tour sequence may vary.

Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. We thank you for your understanding.