Mount 'Alava: Summit Views and Rainforest Treks
Hike to panoramic views on Tutuila Island. Explore rainforest trails and historic tramway remnants in American Samoa's National Park.
Mount 'Alava, the second-highest peak on Tutuila Island, offers stunning panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor and the surrounding islands. Hike through lush rainforest, explore remnants of a historic cable tramway, and experience the natural beauty of American Samoa.
A brief summary to Mount 'Alava
- Pago Pago, Eastern District, AS
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be steep, rocky, and muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take several hours.
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potential afternoon showers.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Consider hiking with a guide, especially if you're not an experienced hiker or are unfamiliar with the area.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Fagasa Pass, the Mount 'Alava Trailhead is easily accessible. The trail is well-marked and begins at the summit of Mount Fatifati Ridge. Follow the path through the rainforest, taking in the scenic views along the way. The hike to the summit of Mount 'Alava typically takes around 3 hours. There are no fees associated with hiking the trail.
-
Public Transport
From Pago Pago, take an aiga (family) bus towards Vatia. These buses are brightly colored and can be flagged down from any safe location along the main road. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at Fagasa Pass, the starting point for the Mount 'Alava Trail. Bus fares range from $0.50 to $2.00, depending on age and distance. Be prepared for a wait of up to an hour, as there are no fixed schedules. From Fagasa Pass, the trailhead is a short walk away.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available at Pago Pago International Airport and near the Fagatogo Market. A taxi ride to Fagasa Pass, the starting point for the Mount 'Alava Trail, will cost approximately $20-$30. Confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your journey. From Fagasa Pass, the trailhead is a short walk away.
Discover more about Mount 'Alava
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sadies Thompson Inn
1.4 km
Step back in time at the Sadie Thompson Inn, where history meets modern comfort in the heart of Pago Pago, American Samoa.
Port of Pago Pago
1.5 km
Discover the heart of American Samoa at the Port of Pago Pago: where stunning scenery meets rich maritime history and vibrant Polynesian culture.
Downtown Ink Tattoo Studio
1.5 km
Experience the essence of American Samoa through stunning body art at Downtown Ink Tattoo Studio, where every tattoo tells a story.
American Samoa Visitors Bureau (ASVB)
1.5 km
Your starting point for exploring the stunning beauty & vibrant culture of American Samoa. Expert travel info, maps, & local tips await!
Fagatogo Square
1.5 km
Experience the heart of American Samoa at Fagatogo Square, a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and local culture in Pago Pago.
Western Union
1.5 km
Reliable money transfers in Pago Pago, connecting you to the world with trusted financial services near the Post Office.
Tedi Of Samoa
1.5 km
Experience Samoan culture and modern shopping at Tedi Of Samoa in Fagatogo, offering local crafts, souvenirs, and everyday essentials.
High Court of American Samoa
1.5 km
Discover the High Court of American Samoa in Fagatogo, where Samoan tradition meets U.S. law in a historic setting.
Sadie's by the Sea
1.6 km
Experience beachfront bliss at Sadie's by the Sea in Pago Pago, American Samoa. Relax, explore, and immerse yourself in island charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Park of American Samoa
0.8 km
Discover rainforests, coral reefs, and ancient Samoan culture in America's remote National Park, a unique South Pacific adventure.
Pago Pago Harbour
1.1 km
Discover Pago Pago Harbour: A stunning volcanic harbor steeped in history, offering natural beauty and a vibrant gateway to American Samoa.
Fagatogo Market
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture of American Samoa at Fagatogo Market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and a taste of island life.
National Park of American Samoa Visitor Center
1.5 km
Discover the wonders of American Samoa's rainforests, reefs, and culture at the National Park Visitor Center in Fagatogo.
Jean P Haydon Museum
1.5 km
Explore American Samoa's rich cultural heritage at the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo. Discover traditional artifacts, historical exhibits, and unique art pieces.
Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center
1.5 km
Discover American Samoa's marine wonders at the Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center. Engaging exhibits for all ages!
Utulei Park
1.9 km
Discover Utulei Park: A historic seaside park in American Samoa offering relaxation, recreation, and stunning ocean views.
Su'igaula Park
2.0 km
Discover Su'igaula Park in Utulei: A serene escape offering lush greenery, stunning views, and a refreshing retreat in American Samoa.
Utulei, Su'igaula
2.1 km
Discover Utulei, American Samoa: Where stunning coastal views meet rich Samoan culture and history in a tranquil island setting.
Fautasi boat Samoa
2.2 km
Experience Samoan maritime culture: witness the Fautasi boat, a symbol of tradition, teamwork, and enduring community spirit in Aua.
Tufu Beach
2.4 km
Discover Tufu Beach in Vatia, American Samoa: a secluded, rocky haven with stunning coastal views and tranquil escape.
Vatia Bay
2.5 km
Discover Vatia Bay: A picturesque Samoan escape with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil waters, perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Blunts Point Trail
2.5 km
Hike through history to a WWII gun battery with stunning views of Pago Pago Harbor. A must-see for nature and history enthusiasts!
Tuafanua Trailhead
2.6 km
Hike through lush rainforest to a secluded beach on the Tuafanua Trail, offering stunning views of Pola Island in American Samoa's National Park.
Blunts Point Battery
2.6 km
Explore Blunts Point Battery, a historic WWII site in American Samoa with panoramic views and a glimpse into Pacific military history.
Essential places to dine
Kings Pizzeria
0.9 km
Experience mouthwatering pizza perfection at Kings Pizzeria in Leloaloa - where tradition meets flavor in every slice.
Moon Korean Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine at Moon Korean Restaurant in Leloaloa—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Fagatogo Fish Market
1.4 km
Discover Fagatogo Fish Market: A vibrant destination for fresh seafood and authentic local culture in Eastern District.
Little Mexico
1.4 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant setting at Little Mexico - your gateway to delicious flavors in Fagatogo.
Matai Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience the best of American and Chinese cuisine at Matai Restaurant in Fagatogo - where flavors unite in a delightful dining adventure.
Fiafia Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover authentic Asian cuisine at Fiafia Restaurant in Fagatogo, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and cultural heritage.
Goat Island Cafe
1.7 km
Savor authentic Samoan flavors at Goat Island Cafe - where every dish tells a story.
Evie's Mexican Food
1.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Evie's Mexican Food in Pago Pago - where every bite brings you closer to Mexico!
Emelio's Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Samoa at Emelio's Restaurant, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Huang mart (wholesale and retail)
0.7 km
Explore the convenience of Huang Mart in Leloaloa, your one-stop shop for snacks, drinks, and essentials during your travels in the Eastern District.
XABOR
0.8 km
Discover XABOR in Pago Pago, the ultimate print shop for personalized quality prints and local artistry in American Samoa.
‘ai Love Boba (east)
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of the tropics at ‘ai Love Boba (East), a fast-food haven for boba enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Paradise Pizza
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Pacific at Paradise Pizza, where every slice tells a story of freshness and creativity.
The Toolshop
1.3 km
Explore Fagatogo's trusted hardware store, The Toolshop, for all your DIY needs and quality tools during your visit to American Samoa.
LYC (SJ MART)
1.3 km
Discover local culture and unique souvenirs at LYC (SJ MART) in Leloaloa, a must-visit shopping destination for tourists.
Manu’a Store
1.4 km
Discover the essence of Samoan culture at Manu’a Store, a unique clothing store in Fagatogo offering a variety of stylish apparel and local crafts.
EZFIX (Fagatogo)
1.5 km
Explore Fagatogo with confidence—EZFIX offers expert mobile and computer repair services to keep you connected during your travels.
Trophies & Things
1.5 km
Explore Trophies & Things in Fagatogo for unique trophies and memorabilia celebrating the spirit of the Pacific Islands.
Tutuila Print
1.6 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of American Samoa at Tutuila Print, where local artistry meets unique souvenirs.
A Java Inc.
1.6 km
Discover A Java Inc. in Fagatogo for exceptional printing services and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for all your printing needs.
UPC Oasis
1.7 km
Discover unique local crafts and essentials at UPC Oasis, a general store in Pago Pago, blending culture with convenience for every traveler.
Tutuila Store
1.8 km
Tutuila Store in Leloaloa: Your go-to convenience store for local snacks, essentials, and a taste of American Samoa's vibrant culture.
Pago Plaza
1.8 km
Explore Pago Plaza, a thriving commercial hub in Pago Pago, blending local culture with modern business needs.
Savers Samoa
1.8 km
Discover a vibrant selection of clothing and accessories at Savers Samoa, a must-visit shopping destination in Pago Pago, American Samoa.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bee’z Beauty Bar
1.4 km
Discover relaxation and rejuvenation at Bee’z Beauty Bar in Fagatogo, the ultimate beauty salon for tourists seeking pampering and self-care.
DDW
1.9 km
Discover the best seafood dining experience in Pago Pago at DDW, where fresh flavors and island vibes come together in perfect harmony.
DDW Restaurant
2.0 km
Experience the culinary delights of the Eastern District at DDW Restaurant, a local favorite offering stunning views and delicious dishes.
South Pago Fusion
2.0 km
Discover the delightful fusion of local flavors and international cuisine at South Pago Fusion, your top takeout destination in Pago Pago.
Fast Food EOB
2.0 km
Explore Utulei's vibrant fast food scene at Fast Food EOB, where convenience meets flavor for every traveler.
PJK Fish Market
2.1 km
Savor the Pacific's freshest seafood at PJK Fish Market in Utulei, where local flavors and vibrant culture meet.
Samus Ice Cream
2.2 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Samus Ice Cream in Utulei, where each scoop is a taste of paradise.
