Oceania
Is Samoa safe?
L1Exercise normal precautions
Is Samoa safe?
Crime is not high, but theft, break-ins and occasional assaults happen, mostly around Apia's bars and seawall at night. Currents, dogs and roads are bigger everyday risks.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2026-07-06.
- Homicide rate: 6.3 per 100,000 people (2018, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 13.0 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
- Solo women: Generally safe; avoid Apia's waterfront and isolated beaches alone at night, and dress modestly in villages.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Strong lagoon currents; drownings at popular, unpatrolled beaches
- Dengue outbreaks and other mosquito-borne disease
- Dog attacks on roads and beaches
- Cyclones November–April; earthquakes and tsunamis
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
Safety by place in Samoa
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Apia | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Samoa safe for tourists?
Crime is not high, but theft, break-ins and occasional assaults happen, mostly around Apia's bars and seawall at night. Currents, dogs and roads are bigger everyday risks.
Is Samoa safe for solo female travelers?
Generally safe; avoid Apia's waterfront and isolated beaches alone at night, and dress modestly in villages.
What is the emergency number in Samoa?
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- Samoa Immigration (MPMC)
- Samoa Tourism Authority
- UK FCDO travel advice: Samoa
- Smartraveller: Samoa
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.