The Top Guided Experiences of Samoa
No Bots, Just Boots on the Ground
Don’t miss a highlight and gain valuable insights along the way with one of the guided tours in Samoa.
From multi-day guided adventures on small-group tours or by bike to day trips to check out bucket-list experiences like To Sua Ocean Trench and Lalomanu Beach, there’s sure to be a guided tour that’s right for you.
You could even try something new, like waterfall hikes and stand-up paddleboarding on a volcanic crater lake!
We go through all of our favourite guided experiences in Samoa, with booking links where available, in our list of the best guided tours of Samoa!
Side note: Our tour recommendations come from on-the-ground research in Samoa – no AI-generated fluff here! Scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about us.
Table of Contents
1. Across Upolu Island Tour – Coconut Tours
See it all on an unforgettable island tour with Coconut Tours. Although this locally owned and operated tour company has comprehensive tours of Samoa’s capital, Apia, and even each side of Samoa’s largest island, Savai’i, we love the “Across Upolu Island Tour“.
Venture on a full-day exploration of the main island’s most stunning natural wonders with irresistible inclusions, such as lunch, water/coconuts, snacks, towels and even binoculars for a spot for bird-watching!
Start your morning by visiting the breathtaking Piula Cave Pool, Sauniatu Waterfall, and the iconic To Sua Trench. Enjoy scenic stops at Le Mafa and Falefa Falls before relaxing with lunch at the picturesque Seabreeze Resort or Aga Reef Resort.
In the afternoon, unwind on the pristine sands of Faofao Beach or Taufua Beach, or choose an alternative coastal walk through O le Pupuu Pue National Park. Needless to say, this tour is your gateway to Upolu’s natural beauty.
Coconut Tours also offers a full-day “Samoa Bird Watching Tour“, where you can spot native birds in lush rainforests, volcanic coastlines, and conservation areas on Upolu and Savai‘i.
Check out and book Coconut Tours‘ full offering on their site.
Location: Tours depart from your accommodation in Upolu.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com2. Samoa Adventure – Intrepid Travel
For a complete adventure holiday incorporating both the islands of Upolu and Savai’i, choose this multi-day guided tour with Intrepid Travel.
Their “Samoa Adventure” tour treats small groups of up to 12 travellers to eight days of breathtaking beaches, stunning swimming holes, and curious cultural experiences.
Almost all meals are included in the tour, as are airport transfers, transport, accommodation in hotels, villas and beach fales, and entry fees to some of Samoa’s top sights that are no doubt on your bucket list.
Location: Tours depart from Faleolo International Airport on your arrival in Samoa.
© Samoa Tourism Authority3. Full Day Tour with a Local – Tai’s Native Experience
It couldn’t get more authentic than joining a Samoan chief for a tour around their native homeland. That’s right, Tai and his guides are chiefs, offering a local perspective like no other, whether you choose to visit Samoa’s main island, Upolu, but also Savai’i.
Tours such as the “Full Day Tour with a Local” take you to the places you’ve no doubt heard of, but more intriguingly, those you haven’t.
Of course, the famous swimming hole To Sua Ocean Trench is on the list, while historical highlights along Apia’s Mulinu’u Peninsula are an intriguing aspect often missed on other tours.
Take your swimwear because you won’t want to miss the opportunity to swim at the gorgeous Lalomanu Beach and Togitogiga Waterfall.
Inclusions with Tai’s Native Experience are accommodation pick-up from Apia and a coconut demonstration. Alternatively, check out and book Tai’s other full-day tour of Southern Savai’i and Northern Savai’i on his site!
As for more sightseeing tours, take a look at the 10 Best Sightseeing Tours in Samoa.
Location: Tours depart from Apia with Apia accommodation pick-ups included.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com4. Turtle Watching and Snorkelling Tours – Manoa Tours
Upolu‘s only dedicated turtle-watching tour, Manoa Tours not only takes snorkelers to the most mesmerising snorkelling spots that can only be reached by boat but also to turtle territory where you can enjoy encountering these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat from the boat.
As for the snorkelling portion of your tour, Manoa Tours hits the best snorkelling location according to the conditions. It could be the stunning coral and fish within the hidden bay of Aganoa Beach. Alternatively, you could be whisked away to the tiny uninhabited island of Nu’usafe’e, with mesmerising displays of coral and fish along the island’s passages. The Aquarium is a magnificent coral garden, while Coconuts Wall is on the outer reef with an awesome drop-off into the deep blue within arm’s length. The location for snorkelling is dependent on the conditions; either way, it promises to be magical.
The tour launches from Siumu near many of Upolu’s central south-coast resorts. Book the Turtle Watching & Snorkelling Boat Tour on Manoa Tours’ site.
Check out similar tours in the 10 Best Snorkelling Tours in Samoa, as well as where else to see (and not see) turtles in the 10 Best Places to See Turtles in Samoa.
Location: Siumu on the central south coast of Upolu. Tours usually depart from Coconuts Beach Club Resort, signposted off the Main South Coast Road.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com5. Savai’i Cycling Tour – Outdoor Samoa
Experience Savai’i by bike on a multi-day cycling tour with Outdoor Samoa. We’ve enjoyed their day tours, so their Savai’i experience is sure to be something special. Enjoy a fully guided experience of either four or nine days with bikes/e-bikes, vehicle support, accommodation, water and most food included.
Spend the mornings cycling roughly 40 km (25 mi) and the afternoons swimming and snorkelling from your beach fale accommodation. The tour also gives you the opportunity to stop off at the Alofaaga Blowholes, as well as lava caves, lava fields and many more interesting stops along the way.
Location: Tour packages start on Upolu with transfers meeting flights. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Mountain Biking in Samoa for more information.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com6. Falease’ela River Walk – Lalotalie ECAT Ventures
Combining nature and adventure, Lalotalie ECAT Ventures’ signature experience is the Falease’ela River Walk. Less of a “walk” than it is a canyoning expedition along the gorge with never-ending cascades of waterfalls, the 3-4-hour experience is an epic excursion for the adventurous!
The team will gladly take you through the gorge with each waterfall getting more grandiose (and higher) than the next! If you’re feeling brave, the boys can show you the best jumping spots – even as high as 20 m/66 ft (they’ll certainly be doing it) – but you’re in no way pressured to do the crazy if you prefer to swim and take in the rainforest scenery that is preserved as a conservation area.
Alternatively, ask about their full-day coastal tour hike to untouched beaches or paopao (canoe) ride through the oldest mangrove forest in Samoa. For more adventures like this, take a look at the 10 Best Adventure Tours in Samoa.
Location: Falease’ela village in Lefaga Bay on the southwest coast of Upolu. Lalotalie ECAT Ventures’ base is beside the ford on Main South Coast Road.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com7. Snorkelling Tour – Samoa Surf & Turf Tours
Experience Samoa Surf & Turf Tours‘ “Snorkel Tour” for an unforgettable underwater adventure! You’ll explore two of Samoa’s premier snorkelling spots, Palolo Deep and the Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary, guided by expert locals who’ve travelled the world (trust us, they’re a hoot to adventure with). With high-quality gear provided, you’ll have the chance to swim with turtles (fingers crossed) and marvel at giant clams (guaranteed!).
If that isn’t enough, you’ll also get to take a refreshing dip at Togitogiga Falls and gaze in awe at the majestic Papapapaitai Falls.
And when you’re ready to unwind, Maninoa Beach awaits with its inviting waters and relaxing vibes. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and chill time if you ask us! Book the Snorkel Tour on Samoa Surf & Turf’s site.
Location: Tours depart from Apia with Apia pick-ups included.
© Samoa Surf & Turf Tours8. Island Tour and Koko Plantation Tour – Savai’i Tours and Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge
Want to see Savai’i? Join local guide, Nu’u of Savai’i Tours for either one of his island sightseeing tours or koko (cocoa) plantation tour (or both)!
Departing from Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge, the Koko Plantation Tour offers a fascinating journey through the cocoa cultivation process, from seedlings to dried beans. You’ll love the demonstration on how to make koko Samoa (Samoan hot chocolate), complete with tastings! Don’t miss the chance to see the roasting process in action. While the tour is available year-round, we recommend visiting in May-June for the best experience. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
Alternatively, Savai’i Tours offers sightseeing trips around Savai’i, such as to Afu Aau Waterfall and the Alofaaga Blowholes, in an air-conditioned minivan with pick-ups from just about anywhere. Find out more about your sightseeing options in the 10 Best Day Tours of Savai’i.
Location: Koko Plantation Tour – Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge, between Auala and Asau villages on the northwest coast. Otherwise, pick-ups are available.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com9. Laauoleola Cave and Forest Tour
Hidden among the lush forest of the remote A’opo village, Laauoleola Cave is more than just your quick roadside attraction.
A 15-minute forest trail through mahogany, ifilele, teak, kava, eucalyptus and banyan trees is just the beginning… As you begin to approach the entrance of Laauoleola Cave, you’ll hear the unusual clicking of swiftlets as they move in and out of the caves. Then, it’s up to you to decide how far you walk through the large lava tube that is said to span 5 km (3.1 mi) under the surface!
It’s a short flat walk (with a few muddy patches) through the cave to the first descent, which the guides can organise a ladder should you want to continue – let them know you would like to do this before you begin the tour. The walk is fully (and casually) guided. The guide has a torch but you might want to also bring your own.
For more cave tours, take a look at the 10 Best Caves in Samoa.
Location: A’opo village, signposted off the main road on the northern coast of Savai’i.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com10. Full-Day Private Excursion of Upolu – Autobots
Autobots have “transformed” the Samoan tour experience with their range of premium private excursions on both Upolu and Savai’i. Known for their exceptional airport services, they’ve now expanded to offer luxurious and personalised island adventures.
What sets Autobots apart? You’ll travel in style with both a dedicated driver and guide, ensuring your safety, comfort and an immersive experience. Their family-friendly approach includes baby seats and booster seats available upon request.
Choose from their “Full-Day Private Excursion of Upolu” (8 hours) that covers iconic landmarks, breathtaking waterfalls and cultural highlights. If you’re short on time, their “Half-Day Private Excursion of Upolu” (4 hours) offer a flexible alternative.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with family or in a larger group, Autobots’ diverse fleet (from comfy SUVs to 26-seater buses) ensures they have the perfect ride for your Samoan escapade.
For more details and to book your premium Samoan adventure, check out the Autobots website.
Location: Tours depart from anywhere on Upolu.
© SamoaPocketGuide.com11. Manono Island Excursion – Golden Eco Tours
Step back in time with Golden Eco Tours‘ “Manono Island Excursion (Full Day)“. This car-free island adventure is a true highlight, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional Samoan life.
Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride to Manono, where local families warmly welcome you. As you walk around the entire island, your guides share fascinating customs and stories, immersing you in their way of life.
The tour’s crowning moment? Sharing a delicious home-cooked Samoan lunch with a welcoming Manono family. It’s an experience that’ll leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Samoan culture.
While the Manono tour is the star, Golden Eco Tours offers other fantastic experiences. Their “Sightseeing & Cultural Tour of Upolu” and “Snorkeling Tour – Giant Clams & South West Upolu” are also worth checking out. They even have excursions to Savai’i, which you can explore on the Golden Eco Tours website.
Location: Tours depart from Apia with hotel pick-up included.
© Golden Eco Tours12. Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour – Samoa Holidays & Events
Finally, one of the most comprehensive tours of Apia, the “Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour” tour with Samoa Holidays & Events, is an immersive experience that lets you savour every moment of Samoan culture.
The day kicks off with a tour of Apia’s landmarks, including the stunning Cathedral and historic Town Clock.
Then, it’s off to the Samoa Cultural Village for an authentic Samoan experience. You’ll participate in an ‘ava ceremony, watch captivating dance performances, and even get a taste of umu-prepared food.
After lunch, choose between a refreshing swim at Piula Cave Pool or exploring local markets and the historically rich Mulinu’u Peninsula.
It’s a day packed with culture, history, and natural beauty – truly the essence of Samoa!
Inclusions with Samoa Holidays & Events are a packed lunch, bottled water, accommodation pick-up and entry fees. Check out Samoa Holidays & Events‘ full offering on their website.
For more guided experiences of the capital, take a look at the 5 Best Day Tours of Apia.
Location: Tours depart from Apia with included Apia accommodation pick-ups.
© SamoaPocketGuide.comMore About the Best Guided Tours in Samoa
That’s it for our list of the best guided tours in Samoa. For more ways to tour the islands, take a look at more of our tour articles:
- 10 Best Eco Tours in Samoa
- 10 Island Day Trips & Island-Hopping Tours in Samoa
- 10 Best Day Tours of Samoa
Finally, make sure you hit all of the sights you want to see by checking out our whopping 101 Best Things to Do in Samoa: The Ultimate List.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Samoa and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Samoa Tourism Authority (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Tourism Authority Corporate (Tourism news - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Hotels Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Meteorological Division (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Customs & Revenue (Border restrictions advice - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Samoa Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Land Transport Authority (Tourist driver’s license info - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Samoa - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At Samoa Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
About The Author
Laura (Lora) S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor-in-chief and co-founder of Samoa Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Samoa. She knows the islands inside out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Upolu and Savai’i’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also the editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.




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