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Samoa

Standard Coverage

Oceania • WSM

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Travel Information
AI-Generated

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

Visa-Free for Many Nationalities

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

1

To Sua Ocean Trench: This iconic natural swimming hole is a stunning turquoise pool surrounded by lush jungle and reached by a steep ladder.

2

Piula Cave Pool: A beautiful freshwater spring located by the ocean, offering clear, cool water perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

3

Papaseea Sliding Rocks: A series of natural rock slides where visitors can slide down smooth volcanic formations into deep jungle pools.

4

Lalomanu Beach: Renowned for its white sand and vibrant coral reefs, it is often cited as one of the best beaches in the world.

5

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.

Entry Requirements

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Source: CDC

Required

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.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

Required

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.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

Required

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.

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Yellow Fever

Source: CDC

Not Required
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Recommended Vaccines & Precautions

Core Vaccines

Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.

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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for all travelers to protect against measles and rubella while in Samoa.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may consume food or drinks prepared with unclean water.

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Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)

Source: CDC

All ages

Ensure adequate vaccination against measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus-diphtheria.

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Rabies pre-exposure vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

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.

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COVID-19 vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

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For Most Travelers

COVID-19 precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Follow local health guidelines to protect against COVID-19.

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

To prevent diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue fever.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

To prevent foodborne illnesses, practice safe food and water consumption.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers exposed to blood or body fluids

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Insect bite prevention measures

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended to avoid mosquito bites due to potential diseases.

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Typhoid

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers to areas with food and water safety concerns.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers to Samoa as it can be transmitted through food and water.

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Itinerary-Specific

Dengue prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Dengue fever is present; use repellents and protective clothing.

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Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Maintain awareness about food and water safety to avoid gastrointestinal issues.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers engaging in sexual contact or using needles.

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Rabies vaccine for certain travelers

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider for travelers who will have frequent contact with animals.

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Dengue fever vaccine (if available and appropriate)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for travelers to regions with high dengue prevalence.

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Rabies (if engaging in outdoor activities)

Source: CDC

All ages

Recommended for those at risk of animal bites

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COVID-19 vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Vaccination recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19

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Insect bite prevention

Source: CDC

All ages

Essential due to potential mosquito-borne diseases in the region.

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Rabies

Source: CDC

All ages

Consider if planning to visit remote areas or have potential exposure to animals.

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Dengue vaccination

Source: CDC

All ages

Considered for those traveling to areas with dengue risk.

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Malaria Information

Risk Area: No malaria risk

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