Things To See & Do > Adventures > Trekking

Trekking in ‘Eua

‘Eua offers the best trekking in Tonga (see map). You can walk through pristine forest in the ‘Eua National Park or explore the rugged southern coastline and see panoramic views of the cliffs and beaches, descend through the rainforest to the sea or perch on the cliffs as seabirds fly past.

There are caves and chasms to be explored and water falls with pools to cool you off. ‘Eua is the place in Tonga for a feeling of sense of discovery, remoteness and adventure.

What to Bring

Strong sandals are suitable for the Lookout Track and the Rock Gardens treks but running shoes or boots are needed for the Lokupo Forest and Coastal hike.

You will also need the usual things for a walk in the Pacific – a day pack, water, sun hat and sun screen, camera, binoculars if you have them and something to eat – although if with a guide s/he may provide food as part of the tour.

Access to the park and southern end of the island is best by vehicle. Some of the guest houses have vehicles although taxis, still rare on ‘Eua’ are also available.

Guides
Most people go trekking with a guide which avoids getting lost on the numerous forestry roads leading up to the park – or winding through the fields to the southern end of the island.

There is also the added bonus of learning more about island life and what you are seeing. Some of the guides have been trained in first aid and rescue.

A guide can be arranged from any one of the five guest houses – several of the guest house owners are themselves trained guides.

Tours
Hideaway Tours will arrange tours and treks whether you are staying at ‘The Hideaway’ or at another guest house. Phone: (676) 50254 or 50255 Fax: (676) 50128. Email: hideaway@kalianet.to

‘Eua National Park: Lookout Track Hike

An easy walk from the forest nursery up to the Lokupo and Lauua Lookouts for spectacular views of the coast, cliffs and circling seabirds. There are lots of land birds too – you may see the Pacific pigeon, the white-collared kingfisher and the crimson-crowned fruit-dove. Time takes about three hours return to your guest house. Take the time to check out the big ovava (banyan) tree and other attractions near the forest nursery.

‘Eua National Park: Lokupo Forest and Coastal Trek
One of the best full-day treks in the Pacific. A guide is essential for this adventurous trip. The terrain descends steeply through tropical forest to Lokupo Beach – the perfect place for a picnic – then follows old lava flows and volcanic boulders to join the Veifefe Track. This takes you back up to the cliff-tops on a meandering trail though the forest with a short steep climb at the end. You are sure to hear the raucous cry of the ‘koki – or red-breasted musk parrot – found only on ‘Eua. A great trip for fit people who are keen on nature and a bit of adventure. The trip takes 7 hours and is not suitable for children under 12 years.

Lakufa’anga – Southern Legends Hike
This hike takes you through fertile ‘gardens’ brimming with crops – taro, squash and cassava, through a small patch of forest and out onto the grasslands of the southern tip of the island. Wild horses roam and will watch as you hike towards the ‘rock gardens’ and onto the coastal archway. This is the place of legends – and your guide will recount the stories as you walk. The trip takes about 3 hours.

Caves and Chasms
There are opportunities to walk through deep gorges up into the caves in the middle of the island, and swim in the waterfall pools en route. Routes are still being developed so ask your guide about options once you are on ‘Eua.