Tonga
SWIM with HUMPBACK WHALES
JUL 29 - AUG 13 2027 • 16 DAYS • Limited to 7 GUESTS only
Embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the South Pacific, where awe-inspiring marine encounters and rich cultural traditions await. This adventure is dedicated to unforgettable in-water experiences with the majestic Humpback whales of Tonga, complemented by a thrilling shark diving post-extension in Fiji’s legendary Beqa Lagoon.
Venture to the Kingdom of Tonga, where the warm waters of Ha’apai and Vava'uprovide a sanctuary for Humpback whales during their annual migration. Over multiple days, you'll have the extraordinary opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants in their pristine habitat, witnessing breathtaking breaches, playful calves, and the hauntingly beautiful songs of the males echoing through the deep.
Begin your whale encounters in the remote Ha’apai archipelago — a hidden gem of pristine reefs and uncrowded waters, where few boats venture and encounters feel truly intimate. After a night in Tongatapu to experience local culture, continue north to the vibrant Vava’u island group, where sheltered lagoons and deep blue channels provide spectacular opportunities to observe and interact with these magnificent giants.
Beyond the water, take in Tonga’s rich cultural heritage. Visit a local village, listen to the harmonious voices of a traditional Tongan Sunday choir, and embrace the warmth of Polynesian hospitality. At your exclusive island retreat, unwind in a beachfront ‘Fale,’ savor island-inspired cuisine, and soak in mesmerizing views of crystal-clear waters.
This adventure is a rare opportunity to connect deeply with nature, experiencing the profound magic of sharing the ocean with one of the world’s most magnificent marine mammals.
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled ending, join us for an exclusive post-extention experience in Fiji, home to one of the world’s most exhilarating shark dives. Slip beneath the surface in Beqa Lagoon and witness up to eight species of sharks—including Bull Sharks, Lemon Sharks, and the elusive Tiger Shark—gliding effortlessly through the blue. Observe these apex predators in their natural environment as expert Fijian dive guides, with deep respect for their marine home, facilitate this remarkable encounter. After each dive, unwind in your of your beachfront resort, where warm island hospitality create the perfect finale to your adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS
Swim alongside majestic Humpback Whales in Tonga’s deep-blue breeding grounds — one of the most intimate marine encounters on Earth.
Witness extraordinary whale behaviors from the boat, including full-body breaches, tail slaps, head slaps, pectorsl slaps, spy hopping, and even dramatic heat runs.
Spend 7 days on private boat charters with only a handful of guests, ensuring unhurried, respectful encounters in the water (just four guests allowed at a time).
Immerse yourself in Tongan culture: visit local villages, experience warm island hospitality, and attend a traditional Sunday church service filled with powerful singing.
Stroll along palm-fringed, white-sand beaches and soak up the serenity of island life.
Explore the maze of tropical, sun-drenched islands in the heart of the South Pacific while staying at comfortable island resorts.
Experience the heart-stopping frenzy of Apex predators on 4 thrilling shark dives in Fiji.
POST-EXTENSION - FIJI BEQA SHARK DIVING
AUG 2027 ● 3 DAYS ● 8 GUESTS
Scuba divers get ready for a heart-stopping frenzy of Apex predators, giant groupers, remoras, snappers, and other predatory fish on one of the world’s most thrilling shark dives. On this 3-day Fiji Shark-Diving Pre-Extension come face to face with up to 8 species of sharks, including Bull, Tiger, Silvertip, Lemon, Tawny Nurse sharks and several species of reef sharks on 4 thrilling shark dives.
*Please note: Snorkeling is not permitted on shark dives, but other activities & tours can be arranged for the 2 days (Zip-lining, River rafting, Village visit, Spa treatments, Snorkel excursions).
RESERVE MY SPACE & ENQUIRIES
You've got that "I don't want to miss out" feeling for a good reason. Our expeditions are life changers and we have a solid following of Wild Earth Explorers who love returning to adventure with us. Don't hesitate in reserving your space today.
“We had such a wonderful trip. I loved Fiji, but for me the highlight still is the whales. That has to be the best experience I have ever had with wild animals. I just can’t get over how magical it was, and trying to explain to other people just can’t do it justice.”
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ITINERARY OVERVIEW
SWIM WITH HUMPBACK WHALES
JUL 29 - AUG 13 2027 • 16 DAYS • Limited to 7 GUESTS only
Day 1 – Jul 29 Depart home en route to Tongatapu Tonga
Day 2 – Jul 30 Arrive in Nukualofa / Welcome dinner
Day 3 – Jul 31 Fly to Ha’apai / Transfer to Sandy Beach Resort
Day 4 – Aug 01 Unwind in paradise / Village Visit / Sunday church service
Day 5 – Aug 02 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 6 – Aug 03 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 7 – Aug 04 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 8 – Aug 05 Fly to Tongatapu / Discover Tongan Culture
Day 9 – Aug 06 Fly to Vava’u / Transfer to Tonga Beach Resort
Day 10 – Aug 07 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 11 – Aug 08 Discover the local village and Sunday church service
Day 12 – Aug 09 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 13 – Aug 10 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 14 – Aug 11 Swim with Humpback Whales
Day 15 – AUG 12 Fly home via Nadi, Fiji
Day 16 – Aug 13 Arrive home
POST-EXTENSION - FIJI SHARK DIVING
12 – 15 AUG • 3 DAYS • 7 GUESTS only
Day 00 – Aug 12 Fly to Nadi, Fiji / Transfer to Pacific Harbour
Day 01 – Aug 13 Two tank shark dive
Day 03 – Aug 14 Two tank shark dive
Day 04 – Aug 15 Transfer to Nadi / Fly home this evening
WILD EARTH LEADER
Sabine Templeton
Expedition Leader, Trip Designer, Fish Geek, Underwater Naturalist & Conservation Biologist
PHOTO CREDIT © Sabine Templeton & Thomas Baechtold