Upolu Travel Guide (Samoa/Polynesia/Oceania)

Upolu is the second-largest island in Samoa, located in the central part of the Polynesian archipelago. It is a real paradise for those seeking an escape from the tourist crowds and the hustle and bustle of modern life. This guide will help you explore the best of Upolu, from its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities to its rich cultural heritage and mouth-watering cuisine.

Introduction to Upolu

Upolu is a beautiful island with a diverse landscape comprising lush tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, towering mountains, and valleys. Its warm tropical climate, friendly people, and unique cultural traditions make it a popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic South Pacific experience.

List of Places to Visit in Upolu

There are plenty of exciting destinations to discover in Upolu. Here are some of the best places to visit during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museum of Samoa: A great place to explore the local culture and history of Samoa
Tuaefu Cultural Centre: An interactive museum that showcases Samoan customs, art, and music
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum: The former home of Robert Louis Stevenson, the famous Scottish novelist and author of Treasure Island
Piula Cave Pool: A natural pool located in a cave that is considered sacred by Samoans

Natural Attractions of Upolu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lalomanu Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches in Samoa with crystal clear waters, white sand, and palm trees
To Sua Ocean Trench: A unique swimming hole with clear turquoise water and a picturesque tropical garden
Papase’ea Sliding Rock: A natural rock water slide that is great fun for kids and adults alike
O Le Pupu-Pue National Park: A protected rainforest that features hiking trails, waterfalls, and birdwatching opportunities
Mount Vaea: A great hiking trail that leads to the burial place of Robert Louis Stevenson and offers stunning panoramic views of Apia and the sea

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upolu

Upolu has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the South Pacific. Some of the popular routes include:

Lake Lanoto’o Track: A challenging hike that takes you through the rainforest and volcanic crater lake
Falefa Valley Trail: A scenic river trail that winds through picturesque villages, waterfalls, and rainforests
Tafua Savai’i and Tafua Upolu Trails: Two trails on the islands of Savaii and Upolu that take you through lush forests and offer spectacular views of the coast and mountains

Best Things to Do in Upolu: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun and exciting activities to try out in Upolu, including:

Snorkeling and scuba diving: Upolu’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for exploring the colorful coral reefs and marine life
Surfing: The island’s south coast is known for its great surfing spots, with waves suitable for all levels
Deep-sea fishing: Upolu is a great place to try your hand at fishing for tuna, mahi-mahi, and other game fish
Cultural tours: Join local guides to learn about the traditions and customs of the Samoan people
Beach hopping: Explore the island’s stunning beaches, from the lively and bustling to the secluded and quiet

Week-Long Itinerary for Upolu

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Upolu:

Day 1: Arrive in Apia, the capital city of Samoa, and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town to soak up the local atmosphere.

Day 2: Head to Papase’ea Sliding Rock for a fun day of swimming and sliding down the natural rock water slide.

Day 3: Visit the Museum of Samoa and Tuaefu Cultural Centre to learn more about the local customs, art, and music.

Day 4: Spend the day exploring Lalomanu Beach and To Sua Ocean Trench, two of the most popular natural attractions in Upolu.

Day 5: Take a hike to the top of Mount Vaea for stunning panoramic views of Apia and the sea.

Day 6: Go on a cultural tour to experience the traditions and customs of the Samoan people.

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or trying out some adventure activities like snorkeling, surfing or deep-sea fishing.

Food and Drink Scene of Upolu

Samoan cuisine is a blend of Polynesian, Melanesian, and European influences, with plenty of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try out during your stay:

Must-Try Dishes

Palusami: a traditional dish made of taro leaves wrapped around coconut cream and baked in an oven
Oka I’a: Samoan raw fish salad prepared with coconut cream, lime juice, and chili peppers
Lu’au: taro leaves cooked in coconut cream and served with either chicken, seafood, or beef

Local Beverages

Koko Samoa: a hot chocolate drink made from cocoa beans
Vailima beer: a locally brewed beer that is available in many restaurants and bars
Ava: a traditional beverage made from the root of the kava plant

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

There are plenty of affordable and comfortable accommodation options in Upolu, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. Some popular options include:

Samoana Boutique Hotel: a stylish and affordable hotel in Apia with comfortable rooms and great amenities
Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa: a luxury resort located on the south coast of Upolu with stunning ocean views and private beach bungalows
Leuaina Beach Resort & Spa: a serene retreat situated on the stunning beaches of the Aleipata District

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

Upolu has some great souvenir shops and markets where you can find unique and locally made gifts. Some popular items include:

Tapa cloth: a traditional Samoan fabric made from tree bark that is used for clothing, decorations, and ceremonies
Handmade jewelry: many shops sell locally made necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that feature shells and other natural materials
Coconut oil: Samoan coconut oil is renowned for its quality and is used for cooking, hair care, and skin care

Local Culture and Customs of Upolu

Samoan culture is known for its strong sense of community, respect for family, and traditional customs. Here are some important cultural practices to keep in mind during your stay:

Dress modestly: Samoa is a conservative country, and it is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or attending church services.
Remove shoes: it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional Samoan meeting house.
Respectful behavior: Samoans value respect and politeness, so it is important to be courteous and mindful of local customs.

Best Time to Visit Upolu

The best time to visit Upolu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is sunny and warm during this time, and you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and beach time. The wet season, from November to April, can be hot and humid with occasional rainfall and tropical storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upolu

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Upolu:

Do:

Greet people with a smile and a friendly “talofa” (hello)
Be respectful of local customs and traditions
Try local food and beverages
Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the island

Don’t:

Take photos of people without their permission
Wear revealing clothing or swimwear outside of the beach
Litter or damage the environment
Drink or drive

Safety and Health

Samoa is a safe country to travel to, with low rates of crime and violence. However, as with any destination, it is important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Upolu:

Safety in Upolu

Avoid walking alone at night, especially in deserted areas
Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items in public
Only use licensed taxis and public transport
Be extra careful when swimming in the ocean, especially during high tide

Health in Upolu

Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid tap water.
Protect yourself against mosquitoes with insect repellent, long sleeves, and pants
Get vaccinated before your trip for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus
Seek medical attention immediately in case of a medical emergency

Getting to Upolu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Upolu is well-connected to other parts of Samoa and the world, with plenty of transportation options available.

Airports Near Upolu

The main airport in Samoa is Faleolo International Airport, which is located on Upolu Island. It serves flights to and from major destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Bus Stations Near Upolu

There are public buses that run throughout Upolu, with frequent services to Apia and other towns on the island.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a taxi to explore the island on your own.

How to Get Around in Upolu

Public buses are the most affordable option for getting around in Upolu. They cover most of the island’s towns and villages and operate on a fixed route.

Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive than buses.

If you prefer to explore the island on your own, you can rent a car or a scooter from one of the many rental agencies in Apia or other towns on the island.

Where to Go Next from Upolu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Upolu is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Samoa and the Pacific. Some popular nearby destinations include:

Savaii Island: Samoa’s largest island with stunning natural attractions and traditional villages
Tonga: a nearby island nation that is known for its stunning coral reefs and marine life
Fiji: an archipelago of islands with some of the best beaches and resorts in the world.

Conclusion

Upolu is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a true South Pacific experience. From its stunning natural scenery and outdoor adventures to its rich cultural heritage and delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your trip today and explore the best of what Upolu has to offer.

Upolu Image Gallery

"Return to Paradise" Beach

Papaseea Sliding Rocks

Piula Cave Pool