Natural Wonders of Samoa: 5 Unmissable Attractions

Natural Wonders of Samoa: 5 Unmissable Attractions

Despite its small size, Samoa's natural wonders are vast

Samoa consists of two main islands, 'Upolu and Savai'i. We split our time evenly between the two of them and there was never a lack of activities to fill our days.

Despite its small size, Samoa's natural wonders are vast. I suggest renting a 4x4 on each of the islands and spending a day driving around and enjoying the natural landscapes along the way.

The roads are quiet and hug the coast on both islands, making it almost impossible to get lost. (I say “almost” because I had Kia as a navigation device…)

Natural wonders of Samoa

1. To the Sua Ocean Trench, 'Upolu

This place feels magical. Two deep sinkholes with steep rock walls and turquoise water inside. You can swim under an arched rock that connects the two pools, or float on your back and gaze at the blue sky above.

• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>
• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>
• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>
• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>

The pools are fed by an underwater trench that originates directly from the violent coast a few meters away. We've heard that a passage from the Trench to the Ocean is possible - but not recommended! Also note that the 20 meter vertical ladder that descends into the pools can be intimidating if you are afraid of heights.

2. Waterfalls

Make your choice. 'Upolu has the dramatic Sopo'aga Falls and Papapapaitai Falls. Both can be seen from above and are easily accessible from the main road. Savai'i has the dreamy Afu Aau Falls, which aren't as dramatic but plunge into a beautiful crystal clear pool that's perfect for a refreshing swim after a long hot day exploring. Sit directly under the falls for an invigorating natural massage!

• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>
• alt=““>
• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>
• alt=“Naturwunder von Samoa“>

3. Caves

There are many opportunities for caving in Samoa. The most famous is the Pa'ape'a Cave on 'Upolu or the spooky underground lava tube, the Dwarf's Cave on Savai'i.

old=““>Atlas & Boots

We decided to spend a morning exploring a dark and eerie cave as we got wet and muddy and plunged into freezing cold but clear water in an unnamed cave near Vaiula Beach Fale on the south coast of 'Upolu. Just ask Sonny about the tour.

4. Mount Matavanu Crater, Savai'i

We hiked up and it almost killed us, but the good news is you don't have to. If you've rented a 4WD vehicle, you can drive (slowly) within 15 minutes of the crater rim and enjoy the views without the near-death experience of hiking in Samoa's debilitating heat.

• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>
• alt=““>

The scenery on the way up is beautiful with views over most of Savai'i all the way to the ocean. As you reach the crater, enjoy panoramic views of the now-dormant volcano that devastated the island a century ago. Now it is covered with lush green trees and vegetation.

5. Alofaaga Holes, Savai'i

Samoa's most explosive natural wonder.

The waves on the southwest coast of Savai'i crash violently against the low cliffs here. Spend a few minutes watching the spectacular and explosive blowholes at high tide. For an additional five tala, you can ask a local to throw a coconut into the blowhole just before it explodes.

alt="Natural Wonders of Samoa">Atlas & Boots

Timed perfectly, the coconut will shoot impressively into the air along with the rising water. It won't keep you fascinated for hours, but it's still worth a visit.

old=““>

Lonely Planet South Pacific contains a comprehensive travel guide to the country, ideal for those who want to both explore the top attractions and take the road less traveled.

Mission statement: Atlas & Boots

      .