Samoa Travel Tips
When to Visit
Samoa is a tropical wonderland that beckons all year long, but the dry season, from May to October, is especially perfect. With warm temperatures, sunny skies, and cool sea breezes, it’s ideal for beach days, hiking lush trails, and exploring villages. The islands come alive with vibrant festivals, traditional ceremonies, and cultural events that add a special touch to your visit.
But don’t fret if you’re visiting outside of this period—Samoa’s charm never fades. The wet season (November to April) brings refreshing rain showers that nourish the lush landscapes, making it a quiet, peaceful time to explore waterfalls, hidden beaches, and pristine rainforests. Whether it's the lively festivities or the tranquil beauty, Samoa offers a perfect escape all year round.
Language
Talofa! (Hello!) — Samoan is the heart and soul of this proud island nation. English is also widely spoken, but it’s the melodic Samoan language that fills the air with warmth, especially during songs, ceremonies, and everyday smiles.
Time Zone
Samoa is uniquely on UTC+13, making this magical country one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise! It’s a full day ahead of places like the Cook Islands!
From Brisbane, Samoa is 3 hours ahead year-round, and during daylight-savings time, Samoa is 2 hours ahead of Sydney.
A quick jump feels like skipping time into a world of waterfalls and warm island welcomes.
Currency
The currency used in Western Samoa is the Samoan Tala (WST) where AUD$1 is equivalent to roughly WST1.8. It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and credit/debit cards, as while major hotels and resorts may accept cards, smaller establishments and markets often prefer cash.
As for general costs, street food and local eateries offer more budget-friendly options however a restaurant meal will cost around WST70 while a beer is roughly WST10.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Samoa.
While the islands boast stunning natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure, unexpected emergencies or accidents can occur.
When researching travel insurance, ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage and trip interruptions.
Your policy should cover activities like Diving, boating, 4wding or any adventurous activities you plan to do on your holiday to Samoa.
Electricity
No adapter drama here—Samoa uses the same Type I plugs and 230V voltage as Australia. Just plug in and recharge, island-style.
How to get there
The main gateway to Western Samoa is Faleolo International Airport (APW), located on the island of Upolu. Several airlines operate flights from Australia to Samoa, with most flights departing from Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne. Flight durations vary but generally range from 5 to 6 hours.
Once you arrive in Samoa, inter-island travel between Upolu and Savai'i, the two main islands, is possible via ferry or domestic flights. Ferries depart regularly from Mulifanua Wharf on Upolu to Salelologa Wharf on Savai'i, with the journey taking approximately 90 minutes.
When planning your itinerary, consider spending 7-10 days in Samoa to fully immerse yourself in its beauty and culture. There are plenty of natural wonders to explore while still allowing for some downtime.
Entry Requirements
For Australians planning to visit Western Samoa, a valid passport is required with at least six months of validity from the date of entry. Fortunately, Australian citizens do not need to obtain a visa for stays of up to 60 days. However, it's always a good idea to double-check visa requirements prior to your departure as regulations may change. Currently, there is no requirement for middle names to be provided for flight or hotel bookings, but with immigration requirements being subject to change it’s best to check this at the time of booking.