10 Best Village Tours in Samoa

1. Samoa Cultural Village

Starting us off on this list of village tours in Samoa, this is perhaps Samoa’s most famous village tour that, admittedly, is not in a real village. But the demonstrations, even down to locals getting a painstaking traditional Samoan tattoo, are, indeed, real!

In Samoa’s capital city, Samoa Cultural Village takes place from 10 am to 12:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday, starting with a hands-on experience of weaving your own plate for the umu.

You’ll then be formally welcomed with an ‘ava ceremony before seeing how a traditional umu feast is prepared.

While your lunch is cooking, discover how ‘ava bowls are carved and even witness a painstaking Samoan tatau (tattoo) being applied in the traditional way.

Finally, sit down with your freshly prepared umu lunch while watching a fiafia cultural performance including fire dancing.

Oh, and did we mention it’s only ST$20? Epic! See more affordable activities in the 50 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Samoa.

Location: Behind the Samoa Tourism Information Centre, Beach Road, Apia.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

2. Golden Eco Tours

Golden Eco Tours is a family-oriented business offering warm, welcoming cultural experiences across Samoa. Their passion for sharing Samoan traditions shines through in every tour, led directly by family members.

We’re particularly excited about their “Sightseeing & Cultural Tour of Upolu“, which takes you deeper into Samoan culture with personal connections, traditional ceremonies and immersive storytelling. You’ll travel in a fully air-conditioned van, enjoying local singing and legends in between seeing Samoa’s iconic waterfalls and even visiting the family’s village. Here, experience a welcoming ceremony, cultural demonstrations and walk around the village for an authentic glimpse of the Samoan way of life.

For water lovers, the “Snorkeling Tour – Giant Clams & South West Upolu” is a must-do. This full-day adventure combines the breathtaking Giant Clam Sanctuary with cultural storytelling, nature experiences and local flavours.

Our favourite has to be the “Manono Island Excursion (Full Day)“. Step back in time on this car-free island, guided by local families who share their customs and way of life. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride, walk around the entire island, and share a home-cooked Samoan lunch with a welcoming Manono family.

Of course, Golden Eco Tours also offers excursions to Savai’i, which you can check out on the Golden Eco Tours website.

Location: Sinalei Reef Resort, Siumu village, Maninoa, southeast coast of Upolu.

© Golden Eco Tours

3. Village Walk – Amoa Resort

You’re never too far from a real Samoan village on the island of Savai’i, which couldn’t be more true for Amoa Resort‘s “Village Walk” which starts directly from its foyer.

Follow the road inland and see a more traditional and humble way of life where you’ll pass a number of plantations.

Here, you’ll touch, smell and, if you’re lucky, taste the fruit, vegetables and herbs lining the village road.

The informal tour follows no set itinerary, allowing guests to ask questions and enjoy the spontaneous joys that village life brings.

Location: Amoa Resort, Faga village on the east coast of Savai’i.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

4. Samoa Sunsation Tours

With over 20 years of expertise in tourism, Samoa Sunsation Tours knows how to showcase the best of Samoa. Their signature tour, the “Sunsational Experience”, is a favourite among visitors looking for an authentic village tour.

Meet village chiefs and families, as you’re introduced to the fascinating ava (kava) ceremony. While it’s not guaranteed, it’s often a tour highlight that’ll give you a true taste of Samoan traditions.

Part of the experience is walking through a lush plantation and harvesting your own taro – talk about getting your hands dirty! The adventure continues as you learn how to prepare an umu (earth oven) under the expert guidance of your tour guide and host family.

Samoa Sunsation Tours operates across both Upolu and Savai’i, so you won’t miss out on either island’s charms. They even run tours to Manono and American Samoa for those looking to explore further afield.

What sets them apart is their focus on delivering authentic experiences. There’s no fixed cost for their cultural encounters – it’s all part of the genuine, unscripted journey they offer.

Location: Tours depart from Apia with hotel transfers included.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

5. Village Walk and School Visit – Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge

Tucked away on the remote western shores of Savai’i, Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge couldn’t be a better place to experience village life in Samoa.

The lodge offers a “Village Walk and School Visit” where you will be guided through the village of Asau.

As part of the experience, or exclusively if you prefer, you can also visit the local preschool for a truly uplifting and heartwarming experience. It’s always highly appreciated to donate gifts to the school (such as pencils, books, stationery, etc.).

This experience can simply be arranged at reception once you arrive at the accommodation.

Location: Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge, between Auala and Asau villages in Asau Bay on the northwest coast of Savai’i.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

6. Village and School Walking Tour – Return to Paradise Resort

Join a local guide from Return to Paradise Resort to tour the proud village where the 1953 Hollywood blockbuster, Return to Paradise, was filmed.

Yes, the village of Matautu still has stories to tell of this significant first time Samoa was put on the world stage (even if the movie itself hasn’t aged too well in terms of representing indigenous peoples and women in general).

Regardless, the tour will allow you to see how the village still lives out old traditions before visiting a local primary school where the children can’t wait to sing for their guests!

Location: Return to Paradise Resort, Lefaga village, Matautu, southwest coast of Upolu.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

7. Cultural Island Village Tour – Le Vasa Resort (Island Ventures)

Another excellent option for visiting Manono island and its villages, Le Vasa Resort (also known as Island Ventures) boasts the perfect position with its boats launching from just a few kilometres across the lagoon.

They offer two tour options: with or without snorkelling.

Without snorkelling, the “Cultural Island Village Tour” lasts 2 hrs 30 mins to 3 hours including a guided walk around the island and a picnic lunch. Alternatively, enjoy the tour described plus a snorkelling trip to make the experience last a total of 3 hrs 30 mins.

Note that a minimum of two guests are required for the tour to go ahead.

Location: Le Vasa Resort, Apolima-uta village, Main West Coast Road, west coast of Upolu.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

8. SummerWind Samoa

SummerWind is the new kid on the block, bringing fresh energy to Samoa’s cultural and adventure tour scene. You’ll love their commitment to sustainability – bring your own water bottle or snag a cool metal one from them.

What’s more, Summerwind works directly with local families living in villages. Fancy a visit to a family house in Lalomanu? Or how about learning the art of coconut husking from the experts? (Trust us, it’s harder than it looks!) Their tours are a perfect mix of natural wonders and cultural immersion, including the chance to take a dip in the stunning To Sua Ocean Trench and explore the mystical Piula Cave Pool.

Whether you’re up for a full-day adventure or just a half-day escapade, Summerwind has got you covered. With five different tours to choose from, all based on the beautiful island of Upolu, you’re spoilt for choice.

Most tours kick off from Apia, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not hop on their Manono tour? It comes complete with a boat transfer – how’s that for island hopping? And let’s not forget the little touches that make all the difference. Fresh coconut and bottled water on every tour? Yes, please!

Book your experience with SummerWind Samoa today!

Location: Tours include transfers from your Apia hotel.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

9. Primary School Visit – Jaymy Beach Fales

Offering more experiences than your average beach fale stay, Jaymy Beach Fales also provides ways to immerse in the culture of the local village, with umu and coconut demonstrations, weaving, koko Samoa preparation or the opportunity to get into the village itself with a primary school visit.

Enjoy the humbling yet heartwarming experience of a Samoan school, where bringing gifts like stationery or even just yourselves and your own international culture is highly appreciated.

Learn more about the beach fales in the 20 Best Beach Fale Accommodations in Samoa.

Location: Jaymy Beach Fales, Main South Coast Road, Saleapaga, southeast coast of Upolu.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com

10. Sunshine Samoa Tours

Dive into the heart of Samoan culture with Sunshine Samoa Tours‘ village tours, where you’ll have the chance to participate in traditional activities that will make you feel like a local (well, almost!).

Ever wondered how Samoans cook their food underground? You’ll get to see the fascinating process of umu preparation firsthand. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate the art of weaving, learn some Samoan cooking secrets, and explore lush plantations. It’s a feast for all your senses!

Groups can also be treated to performances by talented dancers and musicians who bring Samoan culture to life right before your eyes.

The cherry on top? Your guide, Silu, is a cultural expert who started the Samoa Tourism Cultural Village. Trust us, you’re in good hands.

Location: Tours depart from Apia with hotel transfers included.

© SamoaPocketGuide.com