National Park of American Samoa Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture and customs, food and drink scene, safety and health, how to get there, and more in National Park of American Samoa.
- National Park of American Samoa - A Comprehensive Tour Guide
- Introduction to National Park of American Samoa
- List of Places to Visit in National Park of American Samoa
- Hiking/Biking Routes of National Park of American Samoa
- Best Things to Do in National Park of American Samoa: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for National Park of American Samoa
- Food and Drink Scene of National Park of American Samoa
- Where to Stay in National Park of American Samoa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in National Park of American Samoa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of National Park of American Samoa
- Best Time to Visit National Park of American Samoa
- Do’s and Don’ts of National Park of American Samoa
- Safety and Health
- Getting to National Park of American Samoa: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in National Park of American Samoa
- Where to Go Next from National Park of American Samoa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
National Park of American Samoa - A Comprehensive Tour Guide
Introduction to National Park of American Samoa
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, National Park of American Samoa is a hidden gem in the United States of America. The park is spread across three main islands of American Samoa: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū. It was established in 1988 and it covers an area of over 13,500 acres of land and 4,000 acres of coral reefs and ocean. The park offers a unique blend of Samoan culture and nature as well as a diversity of flora and fauna.
List of Places to Visit in National Park of American Samoa
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Samoan Culture Village: This museum showcases the Samoan village life and culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional Samoan dance and music performances and have an immersive experience of Samoan life and traditions.
- Jean P. Haydon Museum: This museum offers an insight into the history of American Samoa. It has a collection of artifacts and objects from ancient Samoan times to the present.
Natural Attractions of National Park of American Samoa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Ofu Island: Ofu Island is famous for its breathtaking landscape, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. It is also home to several bird species including the critically endangered Samoan Tooth-billed Pigeon.
- Mount ‘Alava Hike: This hike is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The hike covers an elevation of 1,500 feet and offers a panoramic view of the Pago Pago Harbor and the surrounding forests.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The coral reefs surrounding the park are home to over 900 species of fish and other marine life. A guided snorkeling or diving tour is a perfect way to explore the underwater world of national park.
Hiking/Biking Routes of National Park of American Samoa
- Mount ‘Alava Trail: This 4-mile hike is a moderate-to-strenuous hike that takes visitors through dense forest, breathtaking scenery, and incredible views of the Pago Pago Harbor and Tutuila Island.
- Leone Coastal Trail: This 1.5-mile hiking trail takes visitors along the coast of Leone and offers panoramic views of the ocean and the coastline.
Best Things to Do in National Park of American Samoa: Activities and Tours
- Cultural Tours: Visitors can take a guided cultural tour to have an immersive experience of Samoan culture and traditions.
- Whale Watching: From July to October, humpback whales visit the Samoan waters for breeding. Visitors can take a guided boat tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Camping: The park has several camping sites that offer a unique opportunity to sleep under the stars while surrounded by nature.
Week-Long Itinerary for National Park of American Samoa
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Explore Pago Pago Harbor and Harbor Drive |
| Day 2 | Hike the Mount ‘Alava Trail and have a picnic at the top |
| Day 3 | Take a cultural tour and learn about Samoan traditions |
| Day 4 | Explore Ofu Island and enjoy a beach day |
| Day 5 | Go snorkeling or diving and explore the coral reefs |
| Day 6 | Take a whale watching tour |
| Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the scenery, or visit the museums |
Food and Drink Scene of National Park of American Samoa
Must-Try Dishes
- Kuka: A famous Samoan dish made from taro leaves, coconut milk, and onions.
- Palusami: Another popular Samoan dish made with taro leaves and coconut cream, served with baked taro and fish.
- Oka: A raw fish dish marinated in coconut cream, lemon juice, and chili peppers.
Local Beverages
- Kava: A traditional drink made from the roots of the kava plant. It is known for its calming and relaxing effects.
- Vailima Beer: A locally brewed beer that is a perfect companion for a sunny day.
Where to Stay in National Park of American Samoa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Sadie’s by the Sea: A beachfront resort that offers stunning views of Pago Pago Harbor. The resort has a restaurant, bar, and various recreational activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
- Vaoto Lodge: A budget-friendly guest house that is located on the east side of Tutuila Island. The lodge is surrounded by lush greenery and has a beautiful garden and a common kitchen.
What to Buy in National Park of American Samoa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Ula Fala: A traditional Samoan necklace made from pandanus leaves.
- Siapo: A type of bark cloth that is hand-painted with traditional Samoan designs.
- Coconut Oil: A locally produced and highly prized oil that is used for cooking, beauty treatments, and medicinal purposes.
Local Culture and Customs of National Park of American Samoa
Samoans are known for their hospitality and generosity. Visitors are advised to show respect for the local culture and customs, especially when visiting villages and cultural sites. Samoans also have a deep connection with nature and the land, which is reflected in their traditional way of life and customs.
Best Time to Visit National Park of American Samoa
The best time to visit National Park of American Samoa is from May to October when the weather is dry and sunny. However, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the park year-round, as the park offers a variety of activities and experiences throughout the year.
Do’s and Don’ts of National Park of American Samoa
Do:
- Show respect for the local culture and customs.
- Carry mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and other essential items.
- Take guided tours for safety and a better understanding of the natural and cultural sites.
Don’t:
- Swim alone, especially in deep waters. Always swim with a partner, or take a guided tour.
- Litter or harm the environment in any way.
- Drive recklessly on the island’s narrow roads.
Safety and Health
Safety in National Park of American Samoa
- Visitors are advised to carry necessary safety gear and equipment while participating in outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and diving.
- Take care while driving on the island’s narrow roads.
- Beware of rip currents while swimming in the ocean.
Health in National Park of American Samoa
- Visitors should carry insect repellent and take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus.
- Visitors who plan to spend more than a week in the park should get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
Getting to National Park of American Samoa: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near National Park of American Samoa
- Pago Pago International Airport is the main airport on Tutuila Island. It offers flights to and from Honolulu, Hawaii, and other destinations.
- Ofu Airport and Ta‘ū Airport are on Ofu and Ta‘ū islands, respectively, and offer connections to Pago Pago.
Bus Stations Near National Park of American Samoa
Visitors can take public buses, called “aiga buses,” to travel within Tutuila Island and its surrounding areas. Taxis are also available in the islands.
Other Options
Visitors can also take private tours or rent a car to explore the islands at their leisure.
How to Get Around in National Park of American Samoa
Visitors can use taxis, rental cars, or organized tours to get around the park. Walking or cycling is also a great way to explore the park and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Where to Go Next from National Park of American Samoa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Apia, Samoa: A 30-minute flight from Pago Pago, Apia is the capital city of Samoa, known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and traditional food.
- Aunu’u Island: A small volcanic island located off the eastern tip of Tutuila Island. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore its unique flora and fauna.
Conclusion
National Park of American Samoa is a perfect blend of Samoan culture, history, and nature. With its beautiful landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique flora and fauna, the park offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures, cultural tours, and local cuisine while exploring the park. With proper safety precautions, visitors can safely experience the beauty and tranquility of National Park of American Samoa.
