The Perfect Samoa Itinerary

Samoa is full of many amazing natural wonders that it’d be a waste to spend all day lounging at the resort (although it certainly is an option). To help you plan your Samoan holiday and ensure that you are able to experience everything that this stunning island nation has to offer, we’ve put together a sample itinerary that covers both Upolu and Savai’i Island.

Upolu Itinerary:

Upolu is the main island of Samoa and home to the capital Apia, and is also the best place to base yourself for the start of your Samoan trip as it offers you great insight into the culture and customs of Samoa. You will probably want to allow 5 – 7 days to explore Upolu, basing yourself in or close to Apia and organising car hire for at least a couple of days.

Some of Upolu’s unmissable highlights include:

To Sua Ocean Trench

You might not have heard the name, but you’ve almost certainly seen photos of Samoa’s To Sua Ocean Trench. Don’t let the word ‘trench’ fool you; this place is a hidden, unforgettable paradise. With crystal clear waters surrounded by luscious jungle greenery, the To Sua Ocean Trench is breathtakingly amazing. It was my favourite day trip on my holiday.

Piula Cave Pools

Like many of the beautiful natural wonders of Samoa, the Piula Cave Pools are a relic of the islands historical volcano activity and are a 45-minute drive from Apia. The Piula Cave Pools consist of two inter-connected pools with shaded and unshaded swimming areas formed naturally by caves. Tiny passageways connect the water to the ocean, allowing for a safe, tranquil dip in the pool. Friendly freshwater fish dart around in the crystal clear water, so don't forget your snorkel and mask!

Papase’ea Sliding Rocks

Perfect for family fun, the Papase’ea Sliding Rocks host natural waterfalls that double as a fantastic waterslide to slide down on. As the Papase’ea falls are only a 6km trip from Apia, you can keep the kids entertained and still have time to explore the rest of the island. Even if you’re not travelling with small children, the steep slides and rewarding cool waterholes below can make anyone feel youthful.

Savai’i Itinerary

Once you’ve explored Upolu, catch the ferry and head to Savai’i, Samoa’s ‘Big Island’. Here you’ll find a natural wonderland filled with rainforests, caves, waterfalls and lava fields to spend your days exploring. If you thought that Upolu was laid-back and gentle then you’re going to feel like Savai’i’s pace is downright snoozy – but that is what is makes your Samoan getaway so relaxing and enjoyable, so let go of your stresses and just go with it!

Some of Savai’i’s unmissable highlights include:

Southern Savai’i Tour

Being the largest island of Samoa, there are a million things to do in Savai’i, so the Southern Savai’i tour is a great way to tick off many of the cannot-miss attractions in one hit. You’ll make stops through luscious rainforests and natural springs to relax and soak in local culture. The part of the tour most guests are taken aback by is the stop at Alofaaga Blowholes - centuries-old lava rock that, when met with ocean waves, produces breathtaking 30-metre-high jets of water into the air. My tip, grab a coconut and drop one into the blowhole and watch it shoot into the air!

Swimming with Turtles

Stop by the Satoalepai Wetlands Sanctuary and have a swim with the turtles. The people of Satoalepai village have made it their duty to preserve the well-being of local sea turtles, and have a spacious artificial pool set up to prevent them from poaching, before they are released into the wild.

Samoan Itinerary and Holiday Packages

Spacifica Travel can assist you in planning and booking your perfect Samoan holiday and itinerary. You can also contact us directly on 1300 800 722 to discuss a custom package that is designed specifically for your requirements and interests.

Images thanks to Sean Condon and Samoa Tourism Authority