Rainforests on Upolu Island.

Samoa’s only National Park, O Le Pupu Pue National Park, is situated in Upolu on the suthern coast of the inland. It was opened in 1978, and was the first declared National Park in the South Pacific. There are walking and hiking tracks but with some of them you need hiking experience. One such hiking trail begins on the O Le Pupu Lava Coast and heads through thick rainforest to Pe’ape’a Cave (a large lava tube) – about a five hour return trek. You need a torch to explore this breathtaking cave.

Uafato Rainforest Reserve is an exceptional rainforest region in Polynesia. A little off the beaten track, in a secluded bay on the east coast of Upolu. The village of Uafato is accessible by dirt road and is about an hour and half drive from Apia. The 1400 hectare Uafato conservation area was established to preserve and restore the traditional hard wood rainforests in Samoa

This area contains many of Samoa’s rare forest birds including the national bird, the manumea (tooth-billed pigeon) and also at least seven other endemic bird species. If you’re relatively fit, there is excellent hiking through the tropical forest to hidden waterfalls, with the chance to spot these rare birds as well as flying foxes.

The area is connected to ancient mythology, with several sites relating to these myths.
Uafato villagers are recognised as the best wood carvers in Samoa. You will be able to see the carvers in action and buy excellent products, helping support the local people.

Savaii Rainforests

The Tafua Peninsula Rainforest Preserve. Located near the coastal village of Tafua in Savai’i, is perfect for spotting native birds and flying foxes. There are several walks including one which will take you to a crater which overlooks Tafua village.

The Falealupo Rainforest Preserve, a low-lying tropical rainforest located in the northwest of Savai’i. Conquering your fear of heights by walking the 40 metre high canopy will be well rewarded with excellent views of the surrounding rainforest and the peaks of Savai’i.

The Samoan people are good wood carvers and their skills goes from generation to generation. Unfortunately most of us have not the opportunity to learn from our forefathers. For us “Palagi” (white man) people we need other ways to get our Wood Working Skills.

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Mats Loefkvist

Hotels Samoa / Samoa Tours / Samoa Travel