Transportation & Getting Around

✈️ Faleolo International Airport

Samoa's main gateway, Faleolo International Airport (APW) is located on Upolu Island, about 40km west of Apia. The airport serves as the primary entry point for international visitors.

Airlines & Routes:

• Samoa Airways: National carrier serving Auckland, Sydney, Brisbane, Nadi, Honolulu
• Air New Zealand: Direct flights from Auckland
• Virgin Australia: Connections via Brisbane and Sydney
• Fiji Airways: Connections via Nadi
• Jetstar: Budget flights from Australia and New Zealand

Flight Times:

• Auckland, New Zealand: 3.5 hours - check visa requirements
• Sydney, Australia: 5.5 hours
• Brisbane, Australia: 4.5 hours
• Nadi, Fiji: 1.5 hours
• Honolulu, Hawaii: 5 hours

Airport Facilities:

• Duty-free shopping
• Restaurants and cafes
• Currency exchange
• Car rental counters
• Tourist information
• Free WiFi

🚐 Airport Transfers

Several options are available for getting from Faleolo International Airport to your accommodation in Apia or other parts of Upolu.

Transfer Options:

• Airport Shuttle: Shared shuttle service to Apia hotels
• Private Taxi: Direct transfer to your destination
• Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pickup services
• Rental Car: Pick up at airport and drive yourself
• Public Bus: Budget option with multiple stops

Costs & Times:

• Shuttle to Apia: 25-35 WST, 45-60 minutes
• Private Taxi: 80-120 WST, 45 minutes
• Hotel Transfer: Often included or 30-50 WST
• Public Bus: 5-10 WST, 60-90 minutes

Booking Tips:

• Book transfers in advance for guaranteed service
• Check if your hotel offers free transfers
• Confirm pickup times for departure
• Have local currency for bus fares
• Allow extra time for public transport

🚗 Rental Car Benefits

Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to explore Samoa, offering complete freedom to visit attractions at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Advantages:

• Complete Freedom: Go anywhere, anytime
• Cost Effective: Especially for groups or families
• Convenience: No waiting for buses or taxis
• Luggage Space: Carry all your gear easily
• Hidden Gems: Access remote locations
• Time Efficient: Direct routes to destinations

Major Rental Companies:

• Avis Samoa: International brand, reliable service
• Budget Rent a Car: Good value options
• Samoa Car Rentals: Local company, competitive rates
• Funway Rentals: Wide range of vehicles
• Island Hopper: Specializes in tourist rentals

Vehicle Types Available:

• Compact cars (most popular)
• SUVs and 4WDs
• People movers (7-8 seats)
• Pickup trucks
• Motorcycles and scooters

📋 Rental Requirements & Tips

Understanding the requirements and local driving conditions will help ensure a smooth car rental experience in Samoa. Check our safety guidelines before driving.

Requirements:

• License: Valid international driving permit - see requirements
• Age: Minimum 21 years (25 for some vehicles)
• Credit Card: Required for security deposit
• Insurance: Comprehensive coverage recommended
• Passport: Required for identification

Driving in Samoa:

• Side of Road: Drive on the LEFT side
• Speed Limits: 56 km/h in towns, 88 km/h highways
• Road Conditions: Generally good, some unsealed roads
• Traffic: Light outside Apia
• Parking: Generally free and available

Rental Costs:

• Compact Car: $40-60 USD per day
• SUV/4WD: $60-90 USD per day
• People Mover: $80-120 USD per day
• Weekly Rates: Often 20-30% discount
• Insurance: $10-20 USD per day extra

Booking Tips:

• Book in advance, especially peak season
• Compare prices online before arrival
• Check insurance coverage carefully
• Inspect vehicle before accepting
• Keep rental agreement with you

🚌 Local Buses

Samoa's colorful local buses are an affordable and authentic way to travel, though they operate on island time and may not suit tight schedules. A great way to experience local life.

Bus System:

• Routes: Main routes from Apia to villages
• Schedule: Irregular, no fixed timetables
• Frequency: More frequent in mornings
• Operating Hours: Generally 6am-6pm
• Sunday Service: Very limited - respect Sunday observance

Popular Routes:

• Apia to Airport: Via Faleolo
• Apia to Lalomanu: South coast beaches
• Apia to Mulifanua: Ferry terminal
• Cross Island Road: To south coast
• Coastal Routes: Around the island

Fares & Payment:

• Short Distance: 2-5 WST
• Long Distance: 5-15 WST
• Payment: Cash only, exact change preferred
• Luggage: Small fee for large bags

Bus Etiquette:

• Wave to flag down buses
• Give up seats for elders
• Be patient with schedules
• Enjoy the local experience

🚕 Taxis & Private Transport

Taxis and private transport options provide convenient door-to-door service, especially useful for airport transfers and specific destinations.

Taxi Services:

• Availability: Readily available in Apia
• Airport Taxis: Always available at airport
• Hotel Taxis: Can be arranged through accommodation
• Phone Booking: Call ahead for pickup
• Street Hailing: Possible in town areas

Taxi Fares:

• Airport to Apia: 80-120 WST
• Within Apia: 10-25 WST
• To South Coast: 150-200 WST
• Hourly Rate: 60-80 WST per hour
• Day Hire: 300-500 WST full day

Private Drivers:

• Tour Guides: Knowledgeable local drivers
• Day Tours: Customized itineraries
• Multi-Day: Extended touring options
• Cultural Insight: Local knowledge included
• Flexible Scheduling: Adapt to your pace

Booking Tips:

• Negotiate fares in advance
• Confirm return pickup times
• Get driver's contact information
• Agree on waiting time charges
• Tip 10-15% for good service

⛴️ Ferry Services

Regular ferry services connect Upolu and Savai'i islands, making island hopping convenient and affordable for travelers wanting to explore both islands.

Ferry Route:

• Upolu Terminal: Mulifanua Wharf
• Savai'i Terminal: Salelologa Wharf
• Journey Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Distance: 22 kilometers across Apolima Strait
• Vessels: Modern passenger/vehicle ferries - see safety information

Schedule & Frequency:

• Daily Sailings: Multiple departures each direction
• First Ferry: Usually 6:00 AM
• Last Ferry: Usually 4:00 PM
• Peak Times: More frequent on weekdays
• Sunday Service: Reduced schedule
• Weather: Service may be cancelled in rough seas - check weather conditions

Fares:

• Adult Passenger: 15 WST one way
• Child (5-12): 8 WST one way
• Vehicle: 50-80 WST depending on size
• Motorcycle: 25 WST one way
• Return Tickets: Small discount available

✈️ Inter-Island Flights

Small aircraft provide quick connections between the islands for travelers preferring faster transportation or those with limited time.

Flight Details:

• Route: Faleolo (Upolu) ↔ Maota (Savai'i)
• Flight Time: 15 minutes
• Aircraft: Small planes (8-12 passengers)
• Operator: Polynesian Airlines
• Frequency: Limited daily flights

Costs & Booking:

• One Way: 100-150 WST per person
• Return: 180-250 WST per person
• Booking: Advance reservation essential
• Baggage: Limited weight allowance
• Weather: Flights may be cancelled due to weather conditions

Considerations:

• Advantages: Quick, scenic aerial views
• Disadvantages: Weather dependent, expensive
• Best For: Time-constrained travelers
• Not Suitable: Large groups, lots of luggage

Ferry vs. Flight:

• Ferry: Cheaper, more reliable, can take vehicles
• Flight: Faster, scenic, weather dependent
• Recommendation: Ferry for most travelers

🏍️ Motorcycles & Scooters

Two-wheeled transport offers an economical and fun way to explore attractions, especially for solo travelers or couples.

Options:

• Scooters (50-125cc)
• Motorcycles (250cc+)
• Electric bikes
• Guided motorcycle tours

Requirements:

• Valid motorcycle license - see requirements
• Helmet (usually provided)
• Insurance coverage
• Experience recommended

Costs:

• Scooter: $25-40 USD/day
• Motorcycle: $40-70 USD/day
• Insurance: $5-10 USD/day

🚲 Bicycles

Eco-friendly cycling is perfect for short distances and leisurely exploration of villages and coastal areas.

Bike Types:

• Mountain bikes
• Touring bikes
• Electric bikes
• Beach cruisers

Best Areas:

• Apia waterfront
• Coastal roads
• Village areas
• Resort surroundings

Rental Costs:

• Standard Bike: $15-25 USD/day
• Electric Bike: $30-50 USD/day
• Weekly Rates: Discounts available

🚶 Walking & Hiking

Many attractions and villages are accessible on foot, and walking is often the best way to experience local culture.

Walking Areas:

• Apia city center
• Village main streets
• Beach areas
• Short hiking trails

Considerations:

• Tropical heat and humidity
• Limited sidewalks
• Friendly local interactions
• Great for photography

Tips:

• Start early to avoid heat
• Carry water and sun protection
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Respect private property