Oceania
Samoa
Laid-back, deeply traditional islands of open-sided beach fales, waterfalls, lava fields and swimming holes. Friendly and low-crime, but Sundays shut down, cash rules and medical care is very limited.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa28 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyWSTUS$1 ≈ WS$2.74Details
- Price level63%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English3/5Common in tourist areas
- PlugsType I230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency911Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911
- Tap waterFilter or boilDrink boiled or bottled water and avoid ice outside resorts.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedFa'afafine (third-gender people) are a long-accepted part of society, but same-sex couples face disapproval; avoid public affection.Details
- DrivingOn the leftGet a temporary Samoan permit from rental firms or the LTA using your home licence; valid 90 days a year.
Where to go in Samoa
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ApiaCapital city | 4/5 | $1,280–2,010 | May–Oct | 67/100 |
When to visit Samoa
May–October is the drier, cooler season. November–April is hot and wet, with cyclone risk.
Good to know
Entry
- A free visitor permit is issued on arrival from your arrival card; you may need a return ticket, proof of funds and booked accommodation.
- Declare all food, plant and animal products; import rules are strict.
Laws visitors break by accident
- On Sundays most businesses close and alcohol can't be sold
- Drinking age is 21; drinking in public outside bars is illegal
- Owning drug paraphernalia is illegal; drug offences can mean long prison terms
Etiquette
- Ask before using a village beach or pool; pay customary fees
- Don't walk or drive noisily through villages during evening prayer (sa)
- Sit before speaking in a fale; don't point your feet at people
- Cover shoulders and knees away from resorts
Tipping
Not expected and not part of local custom.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Samoa Immigration (MPMC)
- Samoa Tourism Authority
- UK FCDO travel advice: Samoa
- Smartraveller: Samoa
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.