Custom travel to Samoa

Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) is one of the South Pacific's most authentic Polynesian countries — 2 main islands (Upolu and Savai'i), 200,000 inhabitants, fa'a Samoa culture preserved for 3,000 years. Apia, tropical capital on Upolu, houses Robert Louis Stevenson's grave (the author of Treasure Island, who lived there his final years 1890-1894). Fiafia evenings (traditional Samoan dance show), Savai'i diving (To Sua Ocean Trench, one of the world's most iconic natural pools, accessible by ladder into a collapsed crater), traditional villages with fale (wall-less houses). Secondary destination for Western tourists but heavily visited by New Zealanders.

Highlights

• Apia: Robert Louis Stevenson's grave
• To Sua Ocean Trench: iconic natural pool
• Fiafia evenings: traditional Polynesian dance
• Savai'i: volcanoes, waterfalls, diving
• Upolu beaches: Lalomanu and Aganoa
• Fa'a Samoa culture: fale and traditional villages

Frequently asked questions

When?

May-October (dry season).

How long?

10 days for Upolu + Savai'i.

Budget?

€2,800-€3,800 per person for 10 days in comfort, excluding flights. Premium: €4,800-€6,500. Flights: €1,600-€2,400.

Visa?

No for French citizens < 60 days.

Getting there?

Paris-Auckland flight (1 stopover), then Auckland-Apia (4 h).

To Sua Ocean Trench accessible to all?

Vertiginous 30-m ladder — not recommended for vertigo-prone or children < 8. Moderate level required.

Family?

Yes, from age 8 (To Sua, beaches). Total safety.

How many days in Savai'i?

3-4 nights minimum to enjoy (volcanoes, waterfalls, beaches).

Combine?

Yes: Samoa + Tonga, Samoa + Fiji, Samoa + New Zealand.

Tips?

Not mandatory.