Samoa National Parks

Samoa, a breathtaking island nation in the South Pacific, boasts two officially designated national parks: National Park of American Samoa and O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park. These parks showcase the country’s rich ecological diversity, encompassing pristine rainforests, vibrant coral reefs, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. They serve as vital sanctuaries for Samoa’s unique flora and fauna, as well as its cultural heritage.  Explore more about Samoa National Parks below.

The National Park of American Samoa is unique in that it spans three islands—Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū—and is the only U.S. national park located in the Southern Hemisphere. The park protects more than 13,500 acres of land and ocean, including lush rainforests, coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes.

On Tutuila, the largest island, visitors can explore dense forests inhabited by native species such as flying foxes and Pacific pigeons. The island’s rugged coastline features sea cliffs and secluded beaches, offering stunning ocean vistas. The marine areas are home to vibrant coral reefs, supporting an array of marine life including sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish.

On Ofu Island, the park boasts one of the most pristine beaches in the Pacific. The clear, turquoise waters and thriving coral reefs make it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The island’s interior is covered in dense forest, where native bird species like the blue-crowned lorikeet and Samoan starling can be spotted.

Ta‘ū, the most remote of the three islands, features steep volcanic peaks and one of the largest undisturbed rainforests in the Pacific. The island’s highest point, Lata Mountain, rises over 3,000 feet, offering breathtaking vistas and a challenging trek through dense vegetation. The forests of Ta‘ū are home to rare endemic species, including the Samoan fruit dove and various species of bats that play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal.

Established in 1978, O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park holds the distinction of being the first national park in Samoa and the South Pacific region. Located on the southern part of Upolu Island, it extends from the highest point of Upolu, Mount Fito, down to the rugged Le Pupu lava coastal cliffs. Covering over 5,000 hectares, the park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including montane and lowland forests, marshes, and coastal cliffs. It is considered the island’s best-preserved remaining tropical forest.

The park is home to two montane herbaceous marshes as well as parts of Mataloa River and Vaalega River, all good representatives of such ecosystems in Samoa. The park includes large tracts of forest dominated by native plants, and is considered as the island’s best-preserved remaining tropical forest. It includes parts of the Togitogiga water catchment, the main water source for four villages, and also boasts waterfalls that are a prime tourist attraction.

The park’s diverse habitats support four of the eight globally threatened bird species of Samoa, including the critically endangered tooth-billed pigeon (Didunculus strigirostris) and the endangered mao (Gymnomyza samoensis), whose populations have severely declined in recent years.

Conservation efforts in Samoa’s national parks have yielded significant successes, particularly in habitat preservation and species protection. The National Park of American Samoa collaborates closely with local communities to ensure sustainable conservation practices while respecting traditional land ownership and customs. Initiatives such as monitoring coral reef health and protecting critical habitats for endangered species have been instrumental in maintaining biodiversity.

In O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park, ongoing restoration projects aim to rehabilitate areas affected by cyclones and invasive species. Community engagement plays a pivotal role in these efforts, with local villages participating in tree planting and invasive species management. The park’s designation as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2016 underscores its global ecological significance.

Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Climate change poses a significant threat, contributing to rising sea levels and increased cyclone frequency, which can damage both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Invasive species, such as the Merremia vine in O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park, continue to threaten native biodiversity. Conservation programs focus on habitat restoration, marine protection, and community education to address these challenges.

Samoa’s national parks are not only sanctuaries for biodiversity but also repositories of cultural heritage. They offer visitors an opportunity to experience the unparalleled beauty of Samoa’s natural world while learning about the deep cultural connections that have shaped these landscapes for millennia. Through ongoing conservation efforts and community involvement, these parks aim to preserve their pristine environments for future generations.