Samoa Travel Guide (Polynesia/Oceania)

Introduction to Samoa

Samoa is a small island nation located in Polynesia, in Oceania. It is made up of two main islands, Upolu and Savai’i, and several smaller islands. Samoa is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. The official languages are English and Samoan, but Samoan is widely spoken.

List of Places to Visit in Samoa

Samoa has a lot to offer for visitors seeking to explore its natural and cultural wonders. Below is a list of must-visit places in Samoa:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum: This fascinating museum is housed in the former home of Robert Louis Stevenson, the famous Scottish author of “Treasure Island” and “Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.” It showcases the life and works of the author.
Piula Cave Pool: This freshwater pool is located inside a cave and is considered sacred by Samoans. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing.
Apolima Island: This island is the smallest of the four inhabited islands in Samoa. It’s a great place to learn about traditional Samoan culture, including the art of tattooing.

Natural Attractions of Samoa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

To Sua Ocean Trench: This stunning natural wonder is a deep swimming hole surrounded by cliffs and tropical vegetation. It’s a perfect spot for taking a dip and snapping some photos.
Mt. Fito: This is the highest peak on Upolu Island, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Aleipata Islands: These islands are a group of uninhabited islets located off the southeastern coast of Upolu. They offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Samoa

Samoa is home to a variety of scenic trails and bike routes that cater to different fitness levels and interests.

O le Pupu-Pue National Park: Located on the southeastern coast of Upolu Island, this park boasts several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the coastline and lush tropical vegetation.
Savai’i Coastal Road: This route is a popular cycling route that takes riders along the scenic coastline of Savai’i Island.
Mount Vaea: This is a popular hiking trail that leads to the final resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Samoa: Activities and Tours

Samoa offers a range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Below are some of the best things to do in Samoa:

Traditional village tour: This is a great way to learn about the local culture and way of life. Visitors can experience traditional dances, music, and food.
Swimming with turtles: Turtle Island, located off the coast of Savai’i Island, is a popular spot to swim and snorkel with turtles in their natural habitat.
Surfing: Samoa is known for its excellent surfing conditions, and there are several spots that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Samoa

To make the most of your trip to Samoa, consider the following week-long itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Arrival and check-in at a hotel or guesthouse in Apia
2	Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and explore Apia
3	Take a village tour and learn about traditional Samoan culture
4	Hike to Mount Vaea and visit Stevenson’s grave
5	Snorkel with turtles in Turtle Island or go surfing
6	Explore the stunning To Sua Ocean Trench and other natural attractions
7	Visit the Piula Cave Pool and depart for home

Food and Drink Scene of Samoa

Samoan cuisine is a unique blend of local and international flavors. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Palusami: This is a traditional Samoan dish made of taro leaves and coconut cream.
Oka: This is a raw fish salad marinated in lime juice and coconut cream.
Fa’alifu fa’i: This is a popular Samoan sweet made of steamed breadfruit and coconut cream.

Local Beverages

Koko Samoa: This is a traditional cocoa drink made from locally grown cocoa beans.
Vailima Beer: This is Samoa’s local beer and is available in several varieties.
Ava: This is a traditional Samoan drink made from the root of the kava plant.

Where to Stay in Samoa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Samoa has a variety of accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences. Below are some recommended options:

Aganoa Lodge Samoa: This is a beachfront eco-lodge on Savai’i Island, offering private bungalows and excellent surfing conditions.
Tanoa Tusitala Hotel: This is a modern hotel located in the heart of Apia, offering comfortable rooms and a pool.
Samoa Surf Camp: This is a hostel located on the southern coast of Upolu Island, offering affordable dorm rooms and surf lessons.

What to Buy in Samoa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Samoan handicrafts and local products make for great souvenirs to bring back home. Below are some recommended buys:

Tapa cloth: This is a traditional Samoan cloth made from the bark of the mulberry tree.
Carved wooden items: These include carved masks, bowls, and figurines.
Coconut oil: This is a locally produced product that is known for its health benefits.

Local Culture and Customs of Samoa

Samoan culture is characterized by its strong emphasis on family, community, and respect for elders. Below are some cultural customs to keep in mind when traveling in Samoa:

Fa’a Samoa: This is the Samoan way of life and is centered around the concepts of respect, loyalty, and tradition.
Fale: This is a traditional Samoan house, which plays a central role in Samoan social life.
Tatau: This is the Samoan art of tattooing, which is considered a sacred rite of passage.

Best Time to Visit Samoa

The best time to visit Samoa is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, and prices may be higher than usual.

Do’s and Don’ts of Samoa

To ensure a pleasant and respectful experience in Samoa, keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions: Samoans take great pride in their culture and heritage, and it is essential to show respect towards their customs and traditions.
Cover up when visiting villages: When visiting traditional villages, it is important to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
Try local food and drink: Samoan cuisine is rich and diverse, and it’s worth trying different dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

Wear beachwear in public areas: It is considered disrespectful to wear beachwear outside of the beach or pool areas.
Take photos without permission: It’s considered impolite to take photos of people or their homes without asking for permission first.
Touch other people’s belongings: Samoan culture places great value on personal possession, and it is impolite to touch someone else’s belongings without asking first.

Safety and Health

Safety in Samoa

Samoa is generally a safe country for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to take common sense safety precautions, such as locking valuables in a hotel safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Samoa

Medical facilities in Samoa are limited, and visitors are advised to bring any necessary prescription medications with them. It is also recommended to receive vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, and typhoid before traveling to Samoa. Visitors should exercise caution when swimming in freshwater pools or rivers due to the risk of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection.

Getting to Samoa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Samoa

The main international airport in Samoa is Faleolo International Airport, located on Upolu Island.

Bus Stations Near Samoa

There are no international bus services in Samoa. However, there are several local bus services that operate on both Upolu and Savai’i Islands.

Other Options

Ferry services operate between Upolu and Savai’i Islands, offering a scenic and affordable way to travel between the two.

How to Get Around in Samoa

Visitors can get around Samoa by taxi, rental car, or local buses. Taxis are generally safe and reliable, and fares are reasonable. Rental car hire is available from several companies, but it is essential to have a valid driver’s license and drive on the left side of the road.

Where to Go Next from Samoa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Samoa is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in the South Pacific. Below are some suggested destinations and excursions:

Tonga: This is another Polynesian island nation located approximately 400 km south of Samoa.
Cook Islands: This is a group of islands located approximately 3,000 km east of Samoa, offering pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
Fiji: This is a popular South Pacific destination located approximately 1,500 km east of Samoa, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Samoa is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From beautiful beaches to traditional villages, there’s something for every type of traveler. By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to Samoa and experience all that this beautiful island nation has to offer.