Samoa Adventure
Experience Overview
Between snorkelling over colourful coral reefs that teem with wildlife and plunging into waterholes below hidden waterfalls, this trip is designed for lounging in the sun in your lavalava (sarong). Among all the beautiful natural gifts that the islands of Samoa have to offer, you’ll also spend time learning about the traditional culture and village life of the locals. With fully guided day tours around different parts of two islands, as well as time to yourself to relax and unwind, this nine-day Samoan adventure is paradisical. Explore bustling markets to stock up on souvenirs and fresh fruit and experience traditional practices like fire dancing and feasting to cap it all off.
Highlights
- Experience Fa'a Samoa (The Samoan Way) – this phrase refers to the Samoan culture and traditions that influence the lives of many local people – with a local leader by your side to give you all the insights.
- Explore Vavau village for an immersive cultural day with the locals. Watch an ava (welcome) ceremony, then be treated to songs and dance while you feast on traditional foods.
- Visit the gorgeous sandy beaches of Vavau and Lalomanu and go snorkelling and swimming at the Giant Clam Sanctuary, teeming with starfish, tropical fish and coral.
- Discover Samoan culture through storytelling and legend – visit Fafao o SaoAli'l (the Passage of the Afterlife), Giant Moso's Footprint, the Star Mounds (one of Samoa’s most sacred places) and the remains of the Virgin's grave.
- Immerse yourself in local culture and be treated to song, dance and performance – you'll attend a Fa’ataupati (slap dance) and fire knife dancing night. On Sunday morning, attend a local church service led by a choir, followed by a traditional Sunday feast.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2663
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Ferry
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TESS
Starts: Apia, Samoa
Finishes: Apia, Samoa
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (5), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights),Lodge or Resort (3 nights),Airconditioned Villas (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,880 ($431 /day)
Itinerary
Talofa! Welcome to Samoa. If you’ve booked an arrival transfer, it will be waiting for you at Apia’s Faleolo Airport. When you arrive at your hotel, you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm over drinks and snacks to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After, maybe head out for dinner with your group – your leader will be able to show you a great local spot.
Accommodation:
- Hotel - Superior Garden & Ocean View Rooms (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, you’ll head out for a guided tour of Apia, starting with the Mulinu’u Peninsula. See a few historical sites here, then carry on to the flea market and maybe pick up a couple of souvenirs or some fruit. See the Mulivai Cathedral, then have lunch at a local cafe. Here, you can often see a demonstration of ‘elei fabric printing – using a stencil to transfer traditional Samoan designs onto fabric. After, you'll head to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum – the famous Scottish author who made his home on the island. Further uphill, you’ll see the Baha'i House of Worship – a beautiful temple set among acres of prayer gardens. Tonight, you have free time at your accommodation to relax or head out for dinner.
Included Activities:
- Apia - Robert Louis Stevenson Historical Home
- Apia - Bahai House of Worship
- Apia - Mulivai Cathedral
- Apia - Fresh Produce & Flea Market visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel - Superior Garden & Ocean View Rooms (Number of Nights: 1)
Board the ferry this morning to your next destination in Samoa, Savai'i – the largest island in the Samoan archipelago. This island also features prominently in Samoa’s history, legends and myths, and you’ll visit a few spots where some of these stories originated. First, stop at the Savai’i Market to wander around the hustle and bustle of daily life, then travel along the South Coast to the Afu Aau Waterfall and the Taga Blowholes. Sit back and relax while enjoying the view of the Samoan villages and colourful gardens as you make your way to your accommodation for the next three nights. You’ll arrive at your hotel rested and ready for a quick dip in the ocean!
Included Activities:
- Savai’i - Market visit
- Savai'i - Blowholes
- Savai’i - Afu Aau Waterfall
Accommodation:
- Lodge or Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
After your morning breakfast spread, start your day with a visit to Cape Falealupo – the easternmost point in Samoa. Spend half a day exploring the various sites and learning about Samoan legends and culture, including Giant Moso's Footprint, the Ancient Star Mound and Fafao o SaoAli'l (Passage of the Afterlife). Return to your accommodation for some relaxation and maybe spend the late afternoon chilling out on the beach. Tonight, maybe grab some dinner at your accommodation or a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Savai'i - Giant Moso's Footprint
- Savai’i - Ancient Star Mound
- Savai’i - Cape Falealupo half day tour
- Savai’i - Fafao o SaoAli'l (Passage of the Afterlife)
Accommodation:
- Lodge or Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day on Sava’i to explore at your own pace. Maybe head out on a Whittaker's Chocolate tour or hit the water for some diving or snorkelling. You could also opt for a kayaking tour along the coast, paddling through the mangroves. Maybe just chill out beachside and grab some dinner and drinks over sunset.
Optional Activities:
- Savai'i - Mangrove kayaking tour from (100 WST)
- Savai'i - Whittakers Chocolate Koko tour (15 WST)
- Savai'i - Traditional Samoan Fofo massage (from) (40 WST)
Accommodation:
- Lodge or Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel along the north coast of Savai'i after breakfast today, with a picnic lunch along the way. You will travel through some of the most beautiful villages in Savai’i, then continue to the Sale’aula Lava Fields to witness the remains of the eruption of Mt Matavanu in 1905, the Virgin’s Grave and the nearby church. Depart from Savai’i on the afternoon ferry and continue to your final accommodation on the coast of Upolu at Lalomanu – voted one of the best beaches in Samoa. Stop for a swim and snorkel along the way at the Giant Clam Sanctuary – home to brain corals, large starfish and other various colourful fish. When you arrive at your beachside fales, where there'll be time for a swim, snorkel or a wander along the beach here before dinner tonight.
Included Activities:
- Savai'i - Virgin’s Grave
- Savai'i - Saleaula Lava Fields
- Upolu - Giant Clam Sanctuary
Accommodation:
- Airconditioned Villas (Number of Nights: 1)
You’ll have a bit of free time this morning before departing for your village cultural day. Make sure to bring your lavalava as you'll be met by village chiefs and matais who will hold an ava (welcoming ceremony) at the village. Feast on an array of traditional Samoan foods while the local women's committee and youth share songs and dances with the group. After lunch, join in some Samoan games and activities such as taulafoga (coconut tossing) and tagati'a (spear throwing) before farewelling your new friends. Soak up some free time on Vavau Beach this afternoon, then return to Lalomanu for dinner tonight. You’ll also be treated to an upbeat cultural show with Fa’ataupati (slap dance) and fire knife dancing as night falls.
Included Activities:
- Vavau Village - Traditional games & cultural activities
- Vavau Village - Ava (Welcoming Ceremony)
- Vavau Village - Customary feast
- Lalomanu - Fire knife & fa'ataupati show
Accommodation:
- Airconditioned Villas (Number of Nights: 1)
Today after breakfast, visit a local Samoan Church to watch the service and listen to the beautiful sounds of the local choir. Then, sit down for a traditional toonai lunch (Samoan Sunday feast). After, say goodbye to Lalomanu and head back to Apia for the last night of your trip. On the way, you’ll stop at the Sopoaga Waterfalls to take a hike up to the Ma Tree. See the cascades and visit the iconic To Sua Trench, where you can take a refreshing swim or just relax and admire the view of the Pacific Ocean. Tonight, you have a free night to celebrate an amazing adventure with your group.
Included Activities:
- Upolu - Sopoaga waterfall
- Upolu - To Sua Trench
- Upolu - Ma Tree walk
- Lalomanu - Samoan church service
- Lalomanu - Traditional toonai Sunday feast
Accommodation:
- Hotel - Superior Garden & Ocean View Rooms (Number of Nights: 1)
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end today. If you decide to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Kelli - Traveled, September 2023
Ado & Chen were amazing tour leaders. This trip showed Samoa at its finest with the perfect blend of time to relax and time to explore. The accomodation is what you expect in a developing country, but this does not take away from the spectacular scenery and friendly people. Loved this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Justin - Traveled, September 2023
We had an amazing time travelling around Samoa with the amazing Ado. Ado did a great job at sharing her beautiful culture with us, as well as showing us some of the most amazing natural beauty!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Deirdre - Traveled, August 2023
An excellent trip sightseeing the 2 islands of beautiful Samoa with a local experienced guide and driver in a small group of 10
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Courtney - Traveled, August 2023
I absolutely loved my trip to Samoa. The people are so incredibly friendly, and the tour gave us the opportunity to see things and hear stories that we otherwise wouldn't have had the chance to. Highly recommend this tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2023
Phoebe - Traveled, August 2023
What a beautiful country! I learnt so much about Samoan Culture whilst also enjoying the beautiful water spots and yummy food! It was such a rich traditional, picturesque trip that I highly recommend to anyone. BYO snorkel gear is worth it :) Thanks Intrepid!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Anna - Traveled, April 2024
Wonderfully paced trip. Ado our leader was knowledgeable, insightful and definitely fun. Great activities, beautiful locations and warm water. ‘The Samoan Way’ is definitely felt and appreciated throughout this trip. Came home feeling happy, relaxed and chilled.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/21/2024
Angi - Traveled, July 2023
Recently, I embarked on an extraordinary adventure to Samoa to learn more of my husbands heritage, guided by Ado and Kit. Their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and ability to navigate challenges ensured an absolutely fantastic experience. Ado and Kit's exceptional professionalism in handling unexpected situations and difficult people stood out, turning unforeseen challenges into unforgettable highlights. Their genuine passion for sharing Samoa's beauty and culture added depth to our journey. With Ado and Kit, you're not just traveling – you're embarking on an unforgettable adventure. As I perused the reviews on Intrepid Travel's website, I was delighted to see that my sentiments were echoed by many fellow travellers. It's no surprise that Ado and Kit have garnered a multitude of glowing reviews, each praising their professionalism, resilience, and ability to create an unforgettable travel experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/03/2023
Kirsty - Traveled, July 2023
I would highly recommend this trip which was a combination of nature and culture. Our guide Ado was passionate, helpful and supportive. She shared with us her knowledge of Samoan myths, legends, culture and customs which was fascinating. Ado and our driver Kit gave us a truly authentic Samoan experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/05/2023
Sam - Traveled, May 2023
This was my first Intrepid trip and WOW, it was incredible. Samoa is the most beautiful country with the most welcoming, lovely people you will ever meet. The trip was packed with great activities and well organised. Kit and Ado were amazing throughout.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/22/2023
Belinda - Traveled, May 2023
If you looked up paradise in the dictionary, I reckon you'd find Samoa there. Pristine watering holes, the loveliest of people, and hardly another tourist groups in sight. I left this trip feeling like my cup was full. A total gem of a destination, and a gem of a trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Kristina - Traveled, April 2023
Samoa is a beautiful country, with beautiful people. This was the first Intrepid tour in Samoa, so I expected some 'think on your feet.' I didn't expect hotel changes, changes in duration of stay, and lack of activities and equipment. A lot of the hotels were lacking fresh food, available bedding, and hot water. I would recommend this trip, but maybe in some time when the tour is better organised, and when the country is set up to accept tourism.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/28/2023
Andrew - Traveled, April 2023
Samoa is a wonderful country unspoilt by mass tourism. This tour highlights the Samoan culture and friendly people in an idyllic pacific island setting including beautiful beaches, waterfalls, jungle walks and plenty of local food opportunities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/18/2023
Paul - Traveled, April 2023
This was a great trip facilitated by an incredible tour leader, Ado and driver, Kit. The itinerary combined the best of Samoa's beaches and natural beauty with its strong cultural traditions. Be prepared for the accommodation to be quite basic - if you are expecting luxury resorts, then this may not be the right trip for you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2023
Liat - Traveled, August 2023
I have just finished the Intrepid Samoa tour. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to experience and understand the real Samoa. Our guide Ado and our driver Hardy were wonderful ambassadors for Samoa. Sharing their culture with us, ensuring we were able to access every opportunity to sample what Samoa had to offer. Both Ado and Hardy treated us like family members and made us all feel comfortable and protected during the week. Both Ado and Hardy were ultimate professionals in their roles and managed the group dynamics (with its challenges) admirably.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Justin - Traveled, September 2023
We had an amazing time travelling around Samoa with the amazing Ado. Ado did a great job at sharing her beautiful culture with us, as well as showing us some of the most amazing natural beauty!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Rebecca - Traveled, July 2024
Samoa is a beautiful place with friendly people and many dogs. Ado is an amazing guide who shares her culture and goes to every effort to ensure you have the best time. You will have cold showers, there will be no wifi, there will be disruptions to the planned itinerary but if you can go with the flow you will have an amazing experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2024
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