Samoa
Oceania • WSM
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Samoa is a breathtaking archipelago in the South Pacific known for its pristine beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and deeply rooted Fa'a Samoa culture. Visitors can experience a slower pace of life, warm hospitality, and untouched natural beauty in this tropical paradise.
Visa Requirements
Most visitors, including nationals from many Western countries, can enter Samoa visa-free for up to 60 days for tourism purposes.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure
- Confirmed return or onward travel tickets
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Details of accommodation or a host contact in Samoa
Popular Attractions
To Sua Ocean Trench: This iconic natural swimming hole is a stunning turquoise pool surrounded by lush jungle and reached by a steep ladder.
Piula Cave Pool: A beautiful freshwater spring located by the ocean, offering clear, cool water perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Papaseea Sliding Rocks: A series of natural rock slides where visitors can slide down smooth volcanic formations into deep jungle pools.
Lalomanu Beach: Renowned for its white sand and vibrant coral reefs, it is often cited as one of the best beaches in the world.
Mount Vaea: A popular hiking spot that leads to the grave of author Robert Louis Stevenson and provides panoramic views of the capital, Apia.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always remove your shoes before entering a Fale or a local home as a sign of respect.
Participate in the Sunday church services, as Christianity is central to Samoan life and observed with great devotion.
Dress modestly in villages by covering your shoulders and knees, especially when walking through rural areas.
Seek permission before taking photographs of people or private property, particularly in rural villages.
Respect the 'Sa' or prayer time held in many villages at dusk, during which you should remain quiet and avoid walking through the village.
Engage with the 'Fa'a Samoa' (the Samoan way), which emphasizes family, community, and service to elders.
Safety Tips
Stick to marked swimming areas and be aware of strong currents when entering the ocean, especially near reef breaks.
Keep your valuables secured and avoid leaving belongings unattended on beaches or in unlocked cars.
Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid waterborne illnesses during your stay.
Use high-quality insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk, to protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
Be cautious when driving, as road conditions can be uneven and animals often wander onto the roads unexpectedly.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation in case of emergencies.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Samoa. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Samoa.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Samoa. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to protect against measles and rubella while in Samoa.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may consume food or drinks prepared with unclean water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure adequate vaccination against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Samoa. If rabies exposures occur while in Samoa, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities. Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
COVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Follow local health guidelines to protect against COVID-19.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue fever.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne illnesses, practice safe food and water consumption.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to avoid mosquito bites due to potential diseases.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to areas with food and water safety concerns.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to Samoa as it can be transmitted through food and water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Dengue prevention
Source: CDC
Dengue fever is present; use repellents and protective clothing.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Maintain awareness about food and water safety to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in sexual contact or using needles.
View sourceRabies vaccine for certain travelers
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who will have frequent contact with animals.
View sourceDengue fever vaccine (if available and appropriate)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to regions with high dengue prevalence.
View sourceRabies (if engaging in outdoor activities)
Source: CDC
Recommended for those at risk of animal bites
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Vaccination recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Essential due to potential mosquito-borne diseases in the region.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider if planning to visit remote areas or have potential exposure to animals.
View sourceDengue vaccination
Source: CDC
Considered for those traveling to areas with dengue risk.
View source