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National Park of American Samoa: A South Pacific Paradise

Explore a remote paradise where rainforests meet coral reefs, and Samoan culture thrives in America's only national park south of the equator.

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The National Park of American Samoa, established in 1988, is a unique and remote U.S. National Park located south of the equator. Encompassing sections of three islands – Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū – the park offers a blend of rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs, along with a rich Samoan cultural experience.

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Local tips

  • Respect local customs by asking permission before taking photos or entering villages.
  • Carry plenty of water and wear sun protection due to the tropical climate.
  • Check with the visitor center for trail conditions and safety information before hiking.
  • Be flexible with your travel plans, as transportation between islands can be affected by weather.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs when snorkeling or diving.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Pago Pago International Airport, take an aiga (family) bus towards the Pago Pago village area. Buses to Vatia, located inside the park, depart from Pago Pago. Be prepared to wait up to an hour, as buses don't run on a fixed schedule. Bus fare ranges from $0.50 to $2.00. Note that aiga buses do not operate on Sundays.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at Pago Pago International Airport. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. A taxi ride from the airport to the National Park of American Samoa visitor center is approximately 40 minutes. Expect to pay around $20-$30, but confirm with the driver beforehand.

  • Car Rental

    Several car rental agencies are located near Pago Pago International Airport. Renting a car offers flexibility in exploring Tutuila Island. From the airport, take Route 1 east towards Pago Pago, then follow signs to the National Park of American Samoa. Note that driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Parking is available at the visitor center and trailheads.

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Discover more about National Park of American Samoa

The National Park of American Samoa, one of the least visited national parks in the U.S.A, extends across three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Taʻū. Located approximately 2,600 miles southwest of Hawai'i, the park provides a unique experience of secluded villages, diverse ecosystems, and stunning ocean vistas. Tutuila, the largest island, hosts the park's visitor center in Pago Pago. The majority of visitors explore the north-central part of the island, which features rainforests, the Mount 'Alava Trail, and WWII historic sites. Ofu and Taʻū, more remote, offer pristine beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Ofu is known for its beautiful beach and snorkeling, while Ta’ū boasts some of the highest sea cliffs in the world. The park's unique aspect is its land ownership; the National Park Service leases the land from Samoan villages, allowing them to maintain their traditional practices. Visitors can explore ancient archeological sites, experience the Samoan way of life ('Fa'asamoa'), and learn about the traditions of the Polynesian people. The park's paleotropical rainforest teems with plant and animal life, including native fruit bats and diverse bird species. The coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including over 950 species of fish and 250 species of coral. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, offering encounters with sea turtles and humpback whales.

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