American Samoa

Polynesia
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Dialing Code
+1684
Annual Visitors
20,200

American Samoa Travel Guide

American Samoa is a tropical island paradise at the heart of Polynesia. Perhaps the most beautiful part of this so-called sub-region, which is made up of hundreds of tiny islands, American Samoa consists of seven freckles of land. And glorious nuggets of land they are, complete with volcanic backdrops, tropical forests and wildlife-rich woodlands.

If you're wondering about the name, American Samoa belongs to the US but is not a part of it. They harbour a couple of the Manu'a group of islands, too, which are volcanic in origin and dominated by high peaks.

American Samoa is accessible by air from Hawaii, New Zealand, and Australia. The main airport is located in Pago Pago, the capital city. Visitors can also travel to the islands by boat from neighbouring Samoa.

American Samoa's volcanoes, inactive since 1911, have left an intriguing land formation, including cavernous lava tubes. The stunning uniqueness of the landscape is why American Samoa has such a reputation for being photogenic. Of course, it's the deep blue sea and immaculate beaches that attract many visitors.

One of the most famous spots in American Samoa is Pago Pago on the main island of Tutuila. Still holding on to its roots as an old fishing town, its natural harbour is one of the most spectacular in the world. In fact, you'll find no shortage of idyllic villages clinging on to the old ways on these islands.

Most people live in villages along the narrow coastal plains, living off the fruits of the sea, and cultivating agriculture on the plains and nearby hills. Traditional Samoan society is based on a chieftain system of hereditary rank and is known as the Samoan way or Fa'a Samoa. Despite the inroads of modern, Western civilisation, local cultural institutions remain the strongest single influence in American Samoan life.

If hiking is your thing, you won't be disappointed, with breathtaking trails traversing the National Park of American Samoa. The park covers 13,500 acres and is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the Samoan fruit bat, the Pacific sheath-tailed bat, and the endangered Samoan tree snail.

Overall, American Samoa is a unique destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. Visitors can experience the beauty of the islands and learn about the traditions and history of the Samoan people.

American Samoa

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Major Airports