Is cash still widely used?
Yes. Tonga is predominantly cash-based. Local markets, transport, local restaurants, and guesthouses across the island groups require pa’anga cash. Nuku’alofa has some card acceptance at larger businesses and hotels.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Nuku’alofa and some tourist areas. ANZ Tonga and BSP machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 10 TOP per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Limited availability outside Tongatapu and Vava’u
- Withdraw cash before visiting the Ha’apai group or remote islands
Card acceptance
Low. Some hotels and businesses in Nuku’alofa and Vava’u accept cards. Everywhere else requires cash.
Tips for travelers
- Tonga is one of the few places in the world to swim with humpback whales
- Carry pa’anga for all spending outside Nuku’alofa
- Tonga remains one of the Pacific’s most traditional kingdoms
- Tipping is not customary in traditional Tongan culture