12 Best Guided Tours in Upolu

1. 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 of Upolu, take a look at the 10 Best Day Tours of Upolu.

Location: Tours depart from Apia with Apia accommodation pick-ups included.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

2. Turtle Watching and Snorkelling Boat Tours – Manoa Tours

Upolu’s only dedicated turtle-swimming 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 around Upolu 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.com

3. Snorkel 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, 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 and marvel at giant clams.

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 Tours

4. 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! On our previous visit, we were blown away by the sheer beauty of the gorge.

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.com

5. Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour – Samoa Holidays & Events

Samoa Holidays & Events offers an immersive experience that lets you savour every moment of Samoan culture.

On their “Apia Town & Cultural Village Tour“, you’ll explore Apia‘s highlights before delving into the heart of Samoan traditions.

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.com

6. Mountain Biking/Cycling Tour – Outdoor Samoa

Get off the beaten track and soak off the sights of village and plantation life on a mountain biking or e-mountain bike tour with Outdoor Samoa. From what we’ve personally experienced, their guided tours offer an exhilarating way to explore Upolu’s diverse landscapes.

A popular guided tour is the “Giant Clams Ride”, taking you some 14 km (8.7 mi) over your choice of either the gentle terrain of Samoan villages to the dirt trails through forest and plantations. Make it a real challenge on their standard mountain bikes or opt for some pedal assistance with their high-quality e-bikes.

The finale is arriving at the Savaia Giant Clam Sanctuary for a refreshing swim among mesmerising giant fluorescent molluscs. Note that local regulations require you to apply sunscreen at least one hour before swimming with the giant clams, so slap it on early.

Learn more about the snorkelling hotspot in The Best Snorkelling in Samoa: Top 10 Places to Snorkel, while more details on Outdoor Samoa can be found in The Ultimate Guide to Mountain Biking in Samoa.

They also offer kayaking tours, which you can read more about in our guide, Kayaking in Samoa: Top 10 Kayak Tours & Places to Kayak.

Location: Outdoor Samoa’s base is located along the Main West Coast Road in the village of Malifanua (just south of the ferry terminal) on the west coast of Upolu.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

7. Fishing Tour – Troppo Fishing Adventures Samoa

For a guided tour of the waters of Upolu, hop on a fishing charter with Troppo Fishing Adventures Samoa. They offer your standard half-day and full-day fishing charters, taking you to where all of your favourite pelagic species are, starting from only a 10-minute boat ride from the Apia Marina.

Should you want to make your holiday all about fishing, they can also arrange multi-day fish-and-stay packages with their partner resort, Taumeasina Island Resort, or even liveaboard fishing adventures.

For more guided fishing tours like this, also take a look at the 5 Best Fishing Charters in Samoa.

Location: Apia Marina, Beach Road, Apia.

© Troppo Fishing Charters

8. Upolu Island Highlights: To Sua, Piula, Giant Clams – Sunshine Samoa Tours

Experience the best of Upolu in one unforgettable day with Sunshine Samoa Tours‘ “Upolu Island Highlights” tour, a comprehensive adventure that ticks off all the island’s must-see attractions.

Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Piula Cave Pool, then climb down the iconic run ladder into the To Sua Ocean Trench for an experience you won’t forget. For the adventurous, there’s an optional snorkelling session with giant clams at Savaia, where you’ll get up close with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The tour also takes you to the stunning Sopo’aga and Togitogiga waterfalls, as well as stopping for a delicious lunch at Maninoa Beach. What we love about Sunshine Samoa Tours is their flexibility; the itinerary can be customised to suit your group’s preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your day.

This family-run operation, led by a father and daughter duo (with cousins sometimes behind the wheel), has a knack for making you feel like part of the family by the time your tour wraps up. With all entry fees and lunch included at very affordable prices, it’s exceptional value for money.

Book your Upolu Island Highlights tour with Sunshine Samoa Tours today and discover why this is one of the most popular day tours on the island.

Location: Tours depart from anywhere in Upolu with included accommodation pick-ups.

© Sunshine Samoa Tours

8. Across Upolu Tour – Coconut Tours

See it all on an unforgettable island tour with Coconut Tours. With day tours of Samoa’s capital, Apia, and full-day tours of Upolu, no stone is left unturned.

Join local and knowledgeable guides for an insightful tour to help you make the most of the Samoan culture and natural wonders.

All tours include Samoan snacks and water/fresh drinking coconuts, as well as lunch at some of Samoa’s most reputable resorts.

Private tours are pretty flexible, allowing you to choose your adventures to maximise your time, but honestly, the itineraries are full of highlights and hidden gems (such as Piula Cave Pool, Sauniatu Waterfall, Falefa Falls, Le Mafa Scenic Site, Sopoaga Waterfall, To Sua Trench, Vavau Beach, Faofao Beach/Taufua Beach, Togitogiga Waterfall/Giant Glam Sanctuary to name just a few on the Upolu tour), that we can’t see much of a reason to deviate from the plan!

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 Coconut Tours‘ full offering on their website and book your excursion today!

Location: Tours depart from Apia with included Apia accommodation pick-ups.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

9. 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 Tours

10. Full-Day Private Excursion of Upolu – Autobots

Autobots has “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.com

11. Pristine Waters of Upolu – Samoan Island Adventures

Specialising in off-the-beaten-track hiking and sightseeing tours, as well as jam-packed itineraries providing real bang for your buck, Samoan Island Adventures is a good go-to for guided day tours of Upolu.

Their most popular tour is “The Pristine Waters of Upolu“, and it’s no wonder with many of Samoa’s bucket list experiences being on the agenda: Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, Papapapaitai Waterfall and To Sua Ocean Trench. You’ll also admire or even swim at a couple of lesser-known waterfalls.

Included are Apia transfers, water refills (BYO bottle), fresh fruit, sandwiches for lunch and all of the attraction entry fees.

For alternative tours, check out their Volcanic Crater Lake Hike and Swim, National Park Lava Cliffs and Black Sand Beach, and their shore excursion, The Jewels of Eastern Upolu, the latter listed in the 10 Best Shore Excursions in Samoa.

Location: Tours depart from Apia and include pick-ups from Apia accommodations.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com