Samoa Travel & Holiday Packages
WHEN EXPERIENCE MATTERS
Popular Samoa Packages
REGIONS OF SAMOA
SAVAI'I
Volcanic Savai'i is Samoa's largest island, less populated and renowned for its traditional way of life, natual beauty and lava fields. Savai'i is reached by ferry from Samoa’s main island, Upolu. Cloaked in a pristine rainforest teeming with birdlife, Savai’i is often referred to as the “real Samoa” where locals enjoy a laid-back, traditional way of life. Its size and lack of population make Savai’i the ideal place to get away from it all, immerse yourself in true Polynesian culture and explore incredible landscapes. Savai’i also has plenty of pristine beaches, great snorkelling, kayaking and diving, and a wide...
UPOLU
Upolu’s largest town and Samoa’s capital city, Apia, offers bustling local markets selling crafts, fish and tropical fruits, a selection of shops and accommodation, cultural experiences including museums, and a stunning range of cuisine options from contemporary cafes to fine dining restaurants. The island's south coast is home to some of Samoa's most beautiful beaches, including Lalomanu- regularly voted as one of the world's top beaches. Upolu’s coastline is dotted with accommodation options, from traditional waterfront fales to luxury resorts. Visitors have much to explore with the many...
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Helpful Information
When to visit
As a tropical Pacific Island close to the equator, Samoa’s climate is warm and humid all year round, with little variation in temperature but with distinct wet and dry seasons. Samoa’s average daytime air temperature throughout the year ranges from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. The sea temperature is normally in the low 20s, making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling all year round.
- Dry Season is May to October - making this the most popular time for visitors.
- Wet Season is November to April - might not bring rain every day but a raincoat or umbrella is advised for what can be short but intense thunderstorms. Most of the wet season’s rain will fall between December to March, when storms may last for several hours.
In the country’s eastern and south-eastern regions, trade winds arrive most afternoons or early evenings for a cooling effect during the hottest part of the day. For areas sheltered from the breeze, visitors may like to adopt the popular Samoan custom of carrying a handmade fan around for relief from the hot afternoons.
Currency & Banks in Samoa
It is wise to always carry cash in Samoa as not all businesses accept credit card payment.
- Cash is also required for visiting beaches and other areas owned by villages, where you will often be asked for a customary fee.
- All major foreign currencies can be exchanged in Samoa. Money exchange services are based at Faleolo International Airport, in the capital city Apia, and at some major hotels and resorts.
Currency
Samoa’s national currency is the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent). Prices are displayed using the standard dollar symbol ($), a ST$ for Samoan Tala or WST$ (Western Samoa Tala). Tala is the only currency accepted in Samoa. 100 Sene equals one Tala.
Samoan Tala notes
- ST$5 $10 $20 $50 $100
Samoan sene (cents)
- 10c, 20c, 50c, ST$1, $2
Protocols when entering a Samoan Village or Fale (house)
Visitors who are lucky enough to be invited into a Samoan village or fale (house) may wish to make themselves aware of some of the normal protocols to adhere to. If you are unsure, it is always a good idea to ask the host to guide you through this.
Some basic cultural guidelines in the home include:
- Removing shoes before entering the fale
- Do not stand if elders are seated
- If seated, avoid pointing your toes at others by crossing your legs or, covering your toes with a lavalava (sarong) or mat.
Some basic cultural guidelines in the village include:
- Always asks permission before taking photos
- Always asks permission to enter a lagoon or bay, which a village may hold customary land rights over. Wait until a local comes along and expect to pay a small entry fee in cash.
- Wear modest clothing - women should look to cover knees and shoulders. No swimsuits.
Health and Travel Info
Immunisations:
The World Health Organisation recommends vaccinations for Samoa that are already administered in most western countries:
Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
If you are unsure, consult your doctor.
Mosquitoes:
Dengue fever and Chikungunya may be present, and Zika virus is considered a risk. Mosquito nets and insect repellent should be used. Malaria isn't considered a problem in Samoa.
Tap Water:
It is recommend that you drink bottled water, which is easily available and affordable.
Visas:
Visitors to Samoa are currently not required to obtain an entry permit for stays of less than 60 days. Travellers must have a return or onward ticket and passports must be valid for six months or more at the time of entry into the country.
Sundays in Samoa:
In Samoa, Sunday is strictly a day for church, family and rest and most businesses will close. Travelling is permitted, but visitors should behave quietly and move slowly through villages.
All content was correct at time of publication.
Things to Do in Samoa
You’ll never get bored in Samoa with all the exciting activities you can enjoy.
This small archipelago has a rich culture and hospitable people. The locals are always glad to share with you the Samoan Way. While its beaches are already world-renowned, Samoa offers unique accommodation to beach lovers with its fales. These traditional Samoan houses have no walls and are either built by the beach or overwater, suspended on stilts and platforms.
Literary buffs can visit Vailima, the home of Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of Treasure Island and Kidnapped. See why the late author fell in love with Samoa as you explore this house museum. After a day of relaxing, spice up your trip with an exhilarating tour of the blow holes on the islands.
Enjoy the wonderful beaches and Samoan history and culture when you visit this island paradise.
Must-visit Attractions in Samoa
Despite being a small archipelago, Samoa offers a plethora of attractions and experiences for every traveller.
The Dwarves Cave is a fascinating attraction located in the vicinity of the Paia village. The cave was formed from a volcanic eruption many centuries ago and its most characteristic feature is a long lava tube that stretches at least a mile long.
The Alofaaga Blowholes are located near the outskirts of the Taga village. These natural wonders are volcanic plug holes that eroded over the years and formed into a tube. Be amazed as the water expels and rises hundreds of feet into the air with great speed and power.
Best Time to Visit Samoa
Before booking our Samoa holiday deals, it’s best to know the kind of weather the islands experience so you can plan your itinerary properly.
Samoa is a tropical country in the Pacific so you can expect a warm and humid climate for most of the year. The most popular time to visit the islands is during its dry season, which runs from May to October. The sea during this time is mildly warm, making it ideal for going to the beach and snorkelling. Travellers are advised to bring protection from the rain during the rest of the year as there can be short but intense thunderstorms.
Known Destinations in Samoa
Our Samoa holiday packages let you explore the many attractions in the country.
Hikers will love the fascinating hiking trails of the O Le Pupu-Pue National Park sprawling across 29 square kilometres. It’s your gateway to many stunning sights, including Mt. Fito, Samoa’s tallest peak, the Peapea Cave and the majestic Togitogiga Falls.
Discover paradise within a paradise as you sail to the uninhabited island of Namua. Travellers can book day trips or overnight stays in Samoan fales or huts, enjoy swimming in its shallow waters, or snorkel to see the breeding grounds of sea turtles.
Just a short walk from Lake Lanoto’o National Park is the breathtaking Papapapaitai Falls. The cascading falls are 100 metres high and are one of the most stunning views in the South Pacific.
Best Hotels in Samoa
Make the most of our Samoa holiday packages by booking a stay in accommodations that’ll make you not want to leave.
Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows offers different room types for your convenience. You can enjoy spa treatments at the hotel’s onsite spa, catch Samoan ceremonies, or watch a fiafia fire dance show while only a few minutes away from Apia, the country’s capital.
The Samoan Outrigger Hotel has a strategic location since it’s near various popular destinations in the country. The hotel is about 30 minutes from the Faleolo International Airport, an hour drive to Lalomanu Beach and just a little over 5 minutes going to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum.
Guests can choose from either a private balcony or a self-contained patio when booking a room at Tanoa Tusitala. Take in the majestic views of the lush tropical gardens that envelop the hotel and dine on local dishes to satisfy your appetite.
Post-Lockdown in Samoa
Samoa is opening its borders in August. Travellers aged 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated with the prescribed doses before entering the country. They must present a legitimate certificate of vaccination that includes essential information, most notably the dates of vaccinations.
Travellers must also submit a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours of departure and rapid antigen tests within 24 hours before travelling. These must be presented in hard copy upon arrival.
You will be denied boarding if you fail to provide a vaccination certificate, are not fully vaccinated, or have been unable to complete the two-week window period after the second dose.
Flying to Samoa
Only four of the 12 Samoan islands are inhabited, namely Upolu, Savai’i, Apolima and Manono. The best way to travel to the islands is via international airport or seaport going to Upolu island. Savai’i is easily accessible for day-trippers or those looking for a remote place to stay with the ferries with regular trips. Tourists can also ride water taxis to reach the smaller Samoan islands, such as Apolima, Manono, Nu’ulopa and Namu’a.
About Us
Welcome to Samoa! A holiday in Samoa is more than just a tropical island experience. You can immerse yourself in the rich and colourful culture, meet the warm locals, explore magical waterfalls and lush tropical forests. Why not join an exciting adventure tour, or simply relax on pristine beaches.
The warm, friendly culture and breathtaking scenery makes Samoa the perfect Pacific Island destination for your next holiday or quick break.
Samoa is made up of 12 islands, of which just 4 are inhabited. Samoa's 2 main islands are Upolu and Savai’i. The international airport is located on the island of Upolu which is the most visited island in Samoa. You can also get a ferry over to the volcanic island of Savai'i which is much less populated and is renowned for its traditional way of life.
Other Destinations
Intrigued by more island adventures? Explore a wider range of options with our other Island Holiday Packages.
Why we love it!
Treasured Island
Situated in the heart of the South Pacific between New Zealand and Hawaii, Samoa is known as the Treasured Islands of the South Pacific – the true heart of Polynesia. Boasting crystal clear turquoise waters, stunning waterholes, lush rainforest trails and pristine reefs that abound with marine life. Samoa offers the perfect paradise for adventure travellers, families or couples looking to escape their everyday surroundings. Samoa’s untouched natural beauty and delicious food, combined with its rich traditional culture and friendly locals, makes Samoa the perfect place to visit for your first international getaway.
To-Sua Ocean Trench
Samoa’s number one absolute must-do! Situated on the south coast of Upolu, it’s a geographical marvel that has to be seen to be believed. The world-famous natural formation creates a spectacular 30-metre deep swimming hole. It is the most photographable spot in Samoa. Take your pictures from above then climb down the steep ladder to a long platform and jump in for a refreshing one-of-a-kind swim. Take a snorkel for a look around and underwater. There are beautiful coastal views, fales to relax in, a restaurant for refreshments and a lava field with mini pools and blowholes.
Samoans
It’s impossible not to fall in love with the laid-back fun-loving vibe of the Samoan population. They are warm, welcoming, and proud of their rich and colourful traditions which date back more than 3000 years. Fa’a Samoa - the Samoan way - is based around matai (chiefs), aiga (extended family) and the church. Many Samoans live in tight-knit villages, where family and taking care of others in your ‘tribe’ is everything. As a tourist entering this world, you instantly become another person to extend this care and generosity to.
Markets
An excellent way to see Samoans going about their business is by visiting Apia’s markets and food spots. Head to Fugalei Markets for an array of fresh fruit and vegetables on offer, drink a freshly shucked niu (coconut) and buy a huge sweet juicy pawpaw for $1! The most popular day to visit is on Sunday - umu day. Over on Savai’i, the Salelologa Market is located near the main Salelologa wharf and by the Savai'i bus terminal. The market sells fresh fruit and vegetables and baked goods alongside crafts, gifts, clothes and household items - it’s a great place to stock up for your Savai’i holiday.
Alofaaga
These impressive blowholes are a real treat to see in real life. Situated in the village of Taga on south-west Savai'i the blowholes propel a roaring jet of water hundreds of feet up into the air. The blowholes have been created by lava flows making a series of tubes connecting a flat clifftop of lava rock with the ocean below. Waves break against the lower end of the tubes sending water at high pressure up through the tubes making fountains that spray every few seconds. Locals throw coconuts into the holes for visitors and these are blasted into the air for an impressive added extra!
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are a matter of pride in beautiful Samoa. A few of the best on Upolu are Papapapaitai Waterfalls, Sopo’aga Falls and Togitogiga. There are two smaller waterfalls at Togitogiga which create a large swimming hole. There’s plenty of space to swim around and underneath the waterfalls. It’s a magical place for a cool dip. There's a grassy picnic area so pack your lunch and stay for half the day. Over on Savai’i is beautiful Afu Aau - a spectacular waterfall plunging into a deep swimming hole. It’s a short 10 minute walk to the falls for a delicious cool swim.
EXPLORE THE DIFFERENT REGIONS OF SAMOA
Samoa is not just a tropical island experience. Immerse yourself in the rich, colourful culture, meet the warm locals, explore magical waterfalls and lush tropical forests.
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Flying to Samoa
Only four of Samoa’s 12 islands are inhabited including Upolu, Savai’i, Apolima, and Manono. International visitors to Samoa will nearly always arrive at either Samoa’s international airport or seaport on the island of Upolu. While most visitors will stay on the island of Upolu because of its variety of activities, bars and restaurants, and resorts and accommodation options, there are regular ferries from Upolu to Savai’i which make Savai’i easily accessible for day trippers and those looking for a more remote place to stay. The smaller islands of Apolima, Manono, and even Nu'ulopa and Namu'a can also be reached by smaller water taxis.
