Explore
Samoa with confidence using these essential do’s and don’ts.
Learn key cultural etiquette, village customs, and safety tips to
travel respectfully and enjoy the beauty and warmth of fa’a Samoa.
• Do greet people warmly — a friendly smile and “Talofa” is always appreciated.
• Do dress modestly, especially in villages where traditional customs are strong.
• Do remove shoes before entering homes or meeting spaces unless told otherwise.
• Do ask permission before taking photos of people, villages, churches, or cultural events.
• Do follow village rules (fa’a Samoa), which may include quiet hours or modest dress codes.
• Do sit when speaking with elders or chiefs — standing over them can be disrespectful.
• Do try local foods such as taro, palusami, and fresh seafood served in traditional umu style.
• Do support local artisans by buying handmade crafts, carvings, and woven mats.
• Do keep Sundays peaceful — shops close and many villages observe strict church traditions.
• Do learn a few Samoan phrases to show respect for the culture and people.
• Do expect slower, relaxed pacing — island time is part of everyday life.
• Don’t wear swimwear or revealing clothing away from beaches or resorts.
• Don’t walk through villages without a shirt — it’s considered disrespectful.
• Don’t touch someone’s head, especially a child’s — it’s culturally inappropriate.
• Don’t enter a fale (traditional house) without being invited.
• Don’t speak loudly or aggressively — calm manners are highly valued.
• Don’t photograph ceremonies such as funerals, church gatherings, or ava rituals without permission.
• Don’t step over someone sitting or lying on the ground — walk around them.
• Don’t assume English is spoken everywhere — Samoan is widely used.
• Don’t litter beaches, lagoons, or villages — Samoa places strong emphasis on cleanliness.
• Don’t show public affection in conservative village areas.
• Don’t ignore local village notices — they often indicate bans on alcohol or noise.
• Fa’a Samoa (The Samoan Way) is the foundation of society — respect, humility, and community are key.
• Chiefly systems (matai) guide decision-making in villages — elders hold great authority.
• Hospitality is generous — accept food or drink offered by hosts with gratitude.
• Church life is central, and Sunday is a day of rest and worship across the islands.
• Traditional dancing, especially the fire knife dance, reflects deep cultural heritage.
• Samoans value modest behaviour, especially in rural regions.
• Storytelling and oral history are important cultural traditions — listen respectfully.
• Community cooperation (aiga) is essential; decisions are collective rather than individual.
• Music and harmony play a big role — choirs and church singing are part of daily life.
• Ceremony and ritual require respectful dress and behaviour — always observe before participating.
• Humility is admired, and arrogance or boastfulness is frowned upon.
• Carry cash — cards are accepted in Apia but limited elsewhere.
• Taxis rarely use meters — agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Local buses are colourful and fun, but schedules may be flexible.
• Tap water is generally safe in main hotels but bottled water is best in rural areas.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environments.
• Mosquito repellent is essential, especially near coastal or forested areas.
• Dress for humidity — lightweight clothing and plenty of hydration are essential.
• Plan for Sundays — businesses close and public transport rarely operates.
• Driving is on the left, and roads outside Apia can be narrow or unlit.
• ATMs are available mainly in Apia and larger towns.
• Mobile reception varies — download maps before travelling.
• To Sua Ocean Trench is best visited early morning for calm water and fewer crowds.
• Lalomanu Beach offers some of Samoa’s clearest waters for snorkelling.
• Apolima and Manono Islands provide peaceful, traditional village life — visit respectfully.
• Piula Cave Pool is a refreshing freshwater spot — popular with locals at weekends.
• Samoan ‘umu’ feast (earth oven cooking) is an unmissable cultural experience.
• The Alofaaga Blowholes are dramatic at high tide — observe from a safe distance.
• Savaii's lava fields offer striking landscapes shaped by historic eruptions.
• Waterfalls like Togitogiga and Papapapai-Tai are ideal for cool dips and scenic photos.
• Attend an ava ceremony if invited — the ritual is deeply symbolic.
• Local handicraft markets are excellent for finding traditional woven goods.
• Sunsets on the south coast are some of the best in the Pacific.
• Samoa is generally safe, but petty theft can occur — lock valuables securely.
• Take care when swimming — some beaches have strong currents or no lifeguards.
• Respect marine life — avoid touching corals, turtles, or fish.
• Drug laws are strict, and penalties for possession are severe.
• Drink responsibly — public drunkenness can attract fines.
• Cyclone season is November–April — monitor weather updates.
• Always seek permission before entering private land or villages.
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Dial 999 for police, fire, and ambulance (availability varies).
• Road safety can be an issue — drive cautiously and avoid night driving.
• Respect village bans on alcohol, swimming, or noise.
• Samoan is widely spoken, though English is common in tourist areas.
• Speak softly and respectfully — loudness can seem rude.
• Always greet people properly before asking questions.
• Use titles such as Tama (sir) or Tina (madam) when addressing elders.
• Avoid interrupting conversations — patience is valued.
• Ask before taking photos, especially of families or ceremonies.
• Smile often — friendliness helps build positive interactions.
• Public Wi-Fi is limited, so purchase a local SIM for better coverage.
• Expect slower replies — Samoan communication is calm and considered.
• Show appreciation for hospitality — gratitude is an important value.
• Avoid sarcasm — tone can be misunderstood.