🐾 Traveling to Samoa with Pets
Pet-Friendly Samoa
Samoa offers a tropical paradise for pets and families, though pet travel requires careful planning due to strict biosecurity. Beaches and rural areas are welcoming to well-behaved animals, but urban spots and resorts may have restrictions. With proper documentation, pets can enjoy island adventures alongside their owners.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from Samoa's Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, applied for at least 30 days in advance.
Permit includes details on microchip, vaccinations, and quarantine requirements; fees around 100 WST.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel for dogs and cats.
For pets from rabies-endemic countries, a rabies antibody titer test is required with a 180-day waiting period post-test.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all health documents; bring scanner if traveling from non-standard countries.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from high-risk rabies countries face up to 30 days quarantine at the owner's expense (approx. 500 WST/day).
Check with Samoan embassy; pets from rabies-free countries like Australia or New Zealand may enter with fewer restrictions.
Restricted Breeds
No specific breed bans, but aggressive breeds may be denied entry or require additional assessments.
All dogs must be leashed in public; muzzles recommended for larger breeds during travel.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals face stricter rules under CITES; quarantine often mandatory.
Small mammals like rabbits require health certificates; consult authorities for species-specific guidelines.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Samoa on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like shaded outdoor areas.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (Upolu & Savai'i): Beachfront resorts like Sinalei Reef Resort allow small pets for 50-100 WST/night, with beach access and outdoor spaces. Many provide water bowls and leashed walks.
- Beach Fales & Bungalows: Traditional open-air fales often welcome pets at no extra fee, offering direct beach access. Ideal for relaxed stays with dogs in tropical settings.
- Vacation Rentals & Villas: Airbnb listings on Upolu frequently allow pets, especially private villas with gardens. More space for pets to play safely.
- Village Homestays: Rural homestays in areas like Aleipata welcome pets and integrate them with local village life. Great for cultural immersion with animals.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Sites like Lalomanu Beach Camps are pet-friendly with designated areas; perfect for beach-loving pets.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end spots like Aggie Grey's Lagoon Beach Resort offer pet amenities including shaded patios and nearby walking paths for premium stays.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Swimming
Samoa's pristine beaches like Lalomanu and Return to Paradise welcome leashed dogs for walks and swims.
Keep pets away from protected turtle nesting areas; check local signs for restrictions.
Coastal Trails
Easy coastal paths on Upolu and Savai'i allow pets on leash, with scenic ocean views.
Avoid during high tide; popular spots include the Cross Island Walk (leashed sections only).
Villages & Markets
Apia's Fugalei Market and village tours permit leashed pets in outdoor areas.
Respect cultural sites; pets not allowed inside fales or sacred grounds.
Pet-Friendly Eateries
Beach bars and outdoor restaurants in Apia often allow leashed pets at tables.
Water bowls are common; inquire before entering indoor dining areas.
Guided Nature Walks
Many eco-tours on Savai'i welcome small leashed pets for rainforest and waterfall hikes.
Stick to marked paths; avoid lava fields or steep terrain with pets.
Island Ferries
Ferries between Upolu and Savai'i allow small pets in carriers; larger dogs on deck with leash.
Fees around 20 WST; book in advance and provide shade during crossings.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Public Transport): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs allowed on back seats with leash for 5-10 WST. Routes cover Upolu and Savai'i but can be crowded.
- Taxis & Shared Vans (Aana): Most taxis accept pets with notice; fees 20-50 WST for short trips. Keep pets leashed and clean.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with cleaning deposit (100-200 WST). Drive on left; 4WD recommended for rural roads.
- Ferries (Inter-Island): Pets permitted on deck; carriers for small animals, leashes for larger. Crossings take 1-2 hours; motion sickness meds advised.
- Flights to Samoa: Check airline policies; Air New Zealand and Fiji Airways allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Air New Zealand accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 100-200 WST each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Apia like the Samoa Veterinary Service offer 24-hour emergency care.
Costs 50-150 WST for consultations; travel insurance recommended for pet emergencies.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Limited pet stores in Apia stock food and basics; larger supermarkets carry imported items.
Pharmacies provide general meds; bring specialized prescriptions and flea treatments.
Grooming & Day Care
Apia grooming services available for 30-60 WST per session; limited daycare options.
Resorts may offer pet minding; arrange in advance for day trips.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local sitters in Apia via word-of-mouth or resort recommendations for 50-100 WST/day.
Informal networks in villages; ensure references for trustworthy care.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in public areas, beaches, and villages. Off-leash allowed in private rural properties away from livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not mandatory but recommended for larger dogs on transport; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up after pets everywhere; bins available in Apia, carry bags in rural areas. Fines up to 100 WST for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Leashed pets allowed on most beaches except protected marine areas. Keep distance from swimmers and nesting sites.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome outdoors; tie to posts and provide water. No pets in food preparation areas.
- National Parks & Reserves: Leashed pets permitted on trails like O Le Pupu-Pue National Park; avoid during wildlife seasons and stay on paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Samoa
Samoa for Families
Samoa is a dream for families with its safe beaches, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. Kids love swimming in pools, exploring villages, and snorkeling. The laid-back island vibe, family-oriented culture, and affordable activities make it ideal for multi-generational trips with easy access to facilities.
Top Family Attractions
To Sua Ocean Trench (Upolu)
Natural swimming hole with ladder access, perfect for family swims in crystal-clear waters.
Entry 20 WST adults, 10 WST kids; life jackets available for safety.
Piula Cave Pool (Upolu)
Swim in a freshwater cave pool with tropical fish; shallow areas for young children.
Tickets 15 WST adults, free for kids under 5; guided tours explain local legends.
Lalomanu Beach (Upolu)
Picturesque beach with calm lagoons for snorkeling and picnics.
Free entry; family-friendly with nearby fales for shade and meals.
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum (Apia)
Historic home with gardens, stories, and treasures for literary-minded kids.
Entry 25 WST adults, 10 WST kids; includes hill hike to viewpoint.
Ava Samoa Adventures (Savai'i)
Blowholes, sea arches, and easy coastal walks with natural water features.
Guided tours 30 WST/person; safe for families with explanatory stops.
Snorkeling Trips (Various)
Family snorkel tours to coral reefs with colorful fish and gentle currents.
50 WST/adult, 25 WST/kid; gear provided, suitable for ages 5+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Samoa on Viator. From village visits to ocean adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Upolu): Places like Coconuts Beach Club Resort offer family bungalows for 200-400 WST/night. Include kids' pools, beach access, and meal plans.
- Beachfront Fales (Savai'i): Traditional stays with family-sized options at 100-250 WST/night. Open-air living with cultural activities for children.
- Village Homestays: Authentic stays in communities like Lefaga for 150-300 WST/night. Interact with locals, learn crafts, and enjoy communal meals.
- Vacation Villas: Self-catering homes with kitchens and yards ideal for families, 300-500 WST/night on Airbnb.
- Budget Guesthouses (Apia): Clean rooms near markets for 100-200 WST/night with family configurations and breakfast.
- Eco-Resorts: Sustainable spots like Saletoga Sands offer family suites with nature programs for 250-450 WST/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Apia with Kids
Palolo Deep Marine Reserve for snorkeling, markets for fresh fruits, and cultural shows.
Apia Park playgrounds and ice cream vendors add fun to city exploration.
Upolu East with Kids
To Sua Trench swims, village fa'alavelave (festivals), and waterfall picnics at Sopoaga.
Easy bus rides to beaches with calm waters for building sandcastles.
Savai'i with Kids
Blowholes demonstrations, Pepe and Lovetals lava fields (guided), and Tafa'igata mangroves.
Canopy walks and fresh coconut hunts keep adventure alive.
Aleipata Region (Upolu)
Beach hopping, sea turtle spotting, and cave explorations at Ma'aga.
Family barbecues and star-gazing on uncrowded shores.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Kids under 5 free; family fares 10-20 WST/day. Buses are colorful but irregular; hold kids during bumpy rides.
- City Transport: Apia taxis offer family rates 20-40 WST; shared vans (aiga buses) accommodate strollers.
- Car Rentals: Child seats 20-50 WST/day required for under 12s; book ahead for automatics.
- Stroller-Friendly: Beaches and resorts are accessible, but rural paths may be uneven. Most attractions have open spaces.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer simple meals like fish and chips for 15-25 WST. High chairs available in tourist areas.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beachside eateries with palusami and fresh seafood; casual vibe welcomes kids.
- Self-Catering: Markets in Apia sell taro, breadfruit, and baby food; resorts have kitchens.
- Snacks & Treats: Coconut vendors and pani popo (coconut buns) delight children on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in resorts and Apia shopping centers with basic amenities.
- Pharmacies: Stock diapers, formula, and sunscreens; English-speaking staff assist.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters for 50-80 WST/hour; vetted locals common.
- Medical Care: Motootua Hospital in Apia has pediatric services; travel insurance essential.
♿ Accessibility in Samoa
Accessible Travel
Samoa is improving accessibility with beach wheelchairs and resort ramps, though rural areas remain challenging. Major attractions in Apia and resorts prioritize inclusive access, with tourism operators offering assistance for barrier-free experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Limited accessibility; taxis with ramps available in Apia for 30-50 WST. Ferries have basic assistance.
- City Transport: Apia paths are mostly flat; some vans accommodate wheelchairs with notice.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted taxis via resorts; standard ones fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Faleolo International provides ramps, assistance, and accessible toilets for arriving families.
Accessible Attractions
- Beaches & Resorts: Wheelchair-friendly beaches at Lalomanu; resorts like Seabreeze offer roll-in showers and paths.
- Cultural Sites: Apia waterfront accessible; village tours with modified paths available.
Nature & Parks: Selected trails at O Le Pupu-Pue with viewpoints; snorkel tours include adaptive gear.- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for wide doors and beach access.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Oct) for beaches and hikes; wet season (Nov-Apr) brings lush scenery but rain.
Avoid cyclone season (Dec-Mar); shoulder months offer warm weather and festivals.
Budget Tips
Family packages at resorts save 20-30%; markets for cheap eats under 20 WST/meal.
Public buses and shared taxis keep transport affordable for groups.
Language
Samoan and English official; locals welcoming to phrases like "talofa" (hello).
Resorts and Apia staff fluent in English for family needs.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear year-round.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, tick prevention, and vaccination proofs for island conditions.
Useful Apps
Google Maps for navigation, Samoa Pocket Guide for tips, and Digicel for local SIM.
Weather apps essential for tropical forecasts.
Health & Safety
Safe destination; drink bottled water, use mosquito nets. Dengue risk in wet season.
Emergency: dial 999; travel insurance covers medical and evacuation.