Discover Samoa, a pristine Polynesian paradise in the South Pacific where ancient culture thrives alongside stunning natural beauty. From the iconic To-Sua Ocean Trench to cascading waterfalls and white-sand beaches, this independent island nation offers authentic cultural experiences and warm hospitality.
Samoa is generally a safe destination with low violent crime rates and a warm, welcoming culture. The primary risks are natural hazards including cyclones (November-April), strong ocean currents at some beaches, and the health risk of dengue fever from mosquito bites. LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that same-sex relations are criminalized under Samoan law.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal travel precautions. Cyclone season November-April requires monitoring of weather forecasts. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion.
Last updated: 2025-06
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Samoa is rated Level 1. Normal precautions apply. Monitor cyclone warnings November-April.
Standard travel advisory
Exercise normal safety precautions. Be aware of cyclone season risks December-March.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Lock accommodation doors at night and secure valuables
Use mosquito repellent to prevent dengue fever
Tourism facilities are not heavily regulated - check equipment before activities
Respect village customs and dress modestly when visiting traditional areas
Be cautious when swimming - check for strong currents and riptides
LGBTQ+ travelers should note that same-sex relations are criminalized
Register with your embassy or consulate upon arrival; nearest major consulates for many nationalities are in Auckland and Canberra
Cyclone season runs November to April - monitor weather forecasts and know your resort cyclone shelter location
Do not photograph villages, churches, or ceremonies without permission - asking shows respect and is almost always welcomed
Swimming near river mouths after heavy rain can expose you to leptospirosis; stick to clear ocean water or designated swimming holes
Carry cash (WST) as many rural villages and small businesses do not accept cards; ATMs are limited outside Apia
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Unlicensed or unscrupulous taxi drivers quoting inflated fares to tourists who don't know local prices, particularly from Faleolo Airport.
How to avoid: Agree on the fare before getting in. Standard Apia city trips should be $10-20 WST. Airport to Apia around $60-70 WST.
Beach fale bait-and-switch
Occasional reports of travelers arriving at beach fales to find their reservation unknown or the promised accommodation significantly worse than advertised.
How to avoid: Book beach fales by email with written confirmation. Ask for a specific fale description and request confirmation of your booking 48 hours before arrival.
Fake guides at tourist sites
At some popular sites like To-Sua Ocean Trench, unofficial 'guides' may offer services and then aggressively request payment.
How to avoid: Official guides wear identification. Pay only at the official entry gate. Politely decline unsolicited guiding offers.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine vaccines recommended (MMR, Tdap, Hepatitis B). Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended. Dengue fever present - no vaccine available, use DEET repellent. No malaria risk. 2019 measles outbreak history - ensure MMR is up to date.
- Water
- Tap water safe in Apia and main tourist areas. Use bottled water in rural villages and on Savai'i. Many resorts offer filtered water.
- Food
- Food safety is generally good at established restaurants. At markets, choose hot freshly prepared foods. Raw fish (oka) is safe when eaten fresh from reputable vendors.
- Facilities
- Tupua Tamasese Mele'isea National Hospital in Apia handles major medical cases. Several private clinics in Apia. Savai'i has a hospital in Safotu. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to New Zealand or Australia may be needed.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Generally safe for solo travelers. Samoa's culture of community and hospitality means lone visitors are typically welcomed and assisted. Exercise standard precautions in Apia at night - stick to well-lit areas, avoid poorly lit streets, and arrange transport back to accommodation in advance.
Female travellers
Female travelers report Samoa as safe with respectful interactions. Dress modestly especially in villages (covered shoulders and knees) to avoid unwanted attention. Walking alone at night in Apia is not recommended. The culture values women but traditional gender roles are prevalent.
Families
Excellent family destination. Low crime, welcoming culture that particularly celebrates children, and family-friendly attractions. Bring children's medications and sunscreen. Supervise children closely at ocean swimming spots due to currents. Major medical facilities available in Apia.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relations are criminalized under Samoan law with penalties up to 5 years imprisonment, though enforcement against tourists is rare. Public displays of affection are inadvisable. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion. The fa'afafine (a recognized third gender with social acceptance) does not translate to broader LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 911
- Medical
- 911
- Embassy
- Australian High Commission Apia: +685 23411. New Zealand High Commission: +685 21711. US has no embassy in Samoa - nearest in Fiji.
- Tourist Police
- Samoa Tourism Authority: +685 63500