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Robert Louis Stevenson Museum: A Glimpse into Literary Samoa

Step back in time at Vailima, the meticulously preserved home of Robert Louis Stevenson, and discover the author's fascinating life in Samoa.

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Explore the meticulously restored Vailima estate, home to Robert Louis Stevenson during his final years. This museum offers a captivating look into the life of the famed author in Samoa, complete with original artifacts and lush botanical gardens.

A brief summary to Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

  • 46MM+9Q2, Cross Island Rd, Apia, WS
  • +68520798

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike the Tomb Trail to Robert Louis Stevenson's grave on Mount Vaea.
  • Bring cash (Samoan Tala) for the entry fee and any souvenirs you may want to purchase.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum, grounds and hike the Tomb Trail.
  • The museum is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From central Apia, a taxi is a convenient way to reach the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The museum is located approximately 5 km south of Apia along Cross Island Road in the village of Avele. A taxi ride will take around 10 minutes. Agree on a fare with the driver before departing; expect to pay between 7 and 10 Samoan Tala.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses offer an inexpensive way to reach the museum. From the Old Apia Market (flea market), look for the bus going to Vailima or ask a local for confirmation. The 'Vaoala' bus departs every hour. Let the driver know you are going to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and they will drop you off opposite the entrance to the RLS estate. Bus fare is around 2-3 Samoan Tala.

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Discover more about Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

Nestled in the hills just south of Apia, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum provides a window into the life and times of the celebrated Scottish author, Robert Louis Stevenson, during his final years. Known to the Samoans as “Tusitala” (Teller of Tales), Stevenson, famed for classics like 'Treasure Island' and 'Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde', sought refuge in Samoa's tropical climate in 1890, hoping to alleviate his tuberculosis symptoms. The museum is housed within Vailima, Stevenson's beautifully restored colonial mansion. The estate offers visitors a chance to explore the rooms where Stevenson lived and worked, filled with period-accurate replicas, original books, trinkets, and personal belongings. Guided tours, led by knowledgeable staff, share engaging stories about Stevenson's life, his family, and his deep connection with the Samoan people. Beyond the house, the expansive grounds feature lush botanical gardens showcasing Samoa's diverse flora. A popular activity is hiking the Tomb Trail, a scenic path through the rainforest leading to Stevenson's final resting place atop Mount Vaea. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Apia and the surrounding coastline. The museum provides an immersive experience, blending literary history with Samoa's natural beauty.

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