Visit our hidden island paradise in the heart
of the Vava’u islands whale sanctuary.
Tonga is one of only two countries in the world where you can swim with humpback whales in their natural habitat. Even if you arrive with high expectations, this is a supernatural experience that will literally blow your mind.
We’ll be staying on a remote island camp with basic yet charming overwater bungalows and surrounded by raw, untouched nature.
Our small groups allow for maximum time in the water with the whales. Our guides are locals to the island village and their families have been living lives connected to Humpback whales for generations.
Since most boats looking for whales are coming from Vava’u (a 45-minute speed boat from our location), we have a jump on the day every morning and a distinct advantage over other groups, since our island camp is literally in the middle of whale activity.
Whether you are a pro photographer or just enjoy taking cool shots with your phone/GoPro, our Matador photo instructors will work with you during informal photo walks and mini-workshops to take your photography to another level. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about underwater and nature photography.
Our professional in-house filmmaker will be documenting our adventure on a daily basis, and we will give you the video of this trip so that you can relive the adventure and share it with friends and family on social media.
We aim to travel as consciously as possible. This trip supports green renewable energy from wind and solar power.
The Tongan word Faka’apa’apa means respect for the whales, and this experience is created to respect the whales, the natural way of life on the island, and preserve the whale habitat.
Scott Sporleder, Matador’s long-time Creative Director, has spent over 10 years shooting and directing photo and video projects, as well as award-winning original films, all over the world. He will lead fun and inspiring workshops in travel photography and filmmaking that show how each journey can become a story.
All tour operators, hotel rooms, transport providers and third party vendors adhere to strict COVID health precautions and safety measures.
All Matador Trips are in small groups and we work to limit exposure in all activities.
Traveler’s insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers. Ask for recommendations if you do not have a preferred provider.
US Travel advisories have the most up to date COVID information for any traveler.
Before applying to take part in this experience, it’s important to understand that this is not a tour or a luxury travel experience. This is a trip to the most remote islands in Tonga.
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