American Samoa travel tips
American Samoa travel tips: U.S. territory in the South Pacific, known for stunning landscapes, Polynesian culture, and vibrant coral reefs.
Districts 🌎
American Samoa travel tips. Here is a list of all the districts of the American Samoa.
Eastern
Western
Manu’a Islands
Swains Island
Rose Atoll
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Pago Pago
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 AS,
ISO alpha-3 ASM
Currency
Badge | Dollar
CODE | USD
NUMBER | 840
SYMBOL | $
FRACTION | penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +1 684
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks |
Location
American Samoa is a group of islands located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States. The coordinates of American Samoa are approximately 14.2710° S latitude and 170.1322° W longitude.
American Samoa consists of five main islands and two coral atolls. The main islands are Tutuila, Aunu’u, Ta’ū, Ofu, and Olosega, while the coral atolls are Swains Island and Rose Atoll. The capital and largest city of American Samoa is Pago Pago, located on the island of Tutuila.
American Samoa is situated east of the independent nation of Samoa, also known as Western Samoa. The islands are located about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, making them a part of Polynesia.
Currency
The currency used in American Samoa is the United States dollar (USD).
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States, and as such, the U.S. dollar is the official currency.
The currency is denoted by the symbol “$” and is used for all transactions and exchanges in American Samoa.
It’s important to note that American Samoa has its own unique coins and banknotes, which are specifically minted and printed for the territory.
These coins and banknotes are identical in value to their U.S. counterparts and are widely accepted in American Samoa.
Languages
The official languages of American Samoa are English and Samoan. English is widely spoken and understood throughout the territory, especially in official and business settings. It is the primary language used in government, education, and administration.
Samoan, an Austronesian language, is also widely spoken by the local population in American Samoa. Samoan is used in daily interactions, cultural events, and within families and communities. Many residents are bilingual, speaking both English and Samoan fluently.
It’s worth noting that while English is commonly understood, there may be variations in accents, dialects, and vocabulary, particularly in more rural or traditional areas. However, as a visitor, you will generally find that English is sufficient for communication in most situations.
Climate 🌡
The climate of American Samoa is tropical, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The territory experiences two distinct seasons: a wet season and a dry season. Here’s an overview of the climate in American Samoa:
Wet Season (November to April): The wet season in American Samoa coincides with the Southern Hemisphere summer. During this period, the islands receive a higher amount of rainfall, and there is a greater chance of tropical storms and cyclones. The wet season is characterized by more frequent showers and increased cloud cover.
Dry Season (May to October): The dry season in American Samoa aligns with the Southern Hemisphere winter. It is generally considered the “cooler” and drier period. The dry season is characterized by more stable weather conditions, lower chances of rainfall, and clearer skies. However, it’s important to note that even during the dry season, some rainfall can still occur.
Throughout the year, temperatures in American Samoa remain relatively consistent, with average highs ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (28-33 degrees Celsius). The evenings and early mornings are usually cooler, with average lows in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (23-24 degrees Celsius).
The ocean surrounding American Samoa maintains warm temperatures year-round, making it ideal for swimming and water activities.
American Samoa travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to American Samoa, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Entry Requirements:
Check visa and entry requirements for American Samoa before planning your trip.
Weather:
Tropical climate; pack lightweight, breathable clothing and use sunscreen.
Natural Beauty:
Explore pristine beaches, coral reefs, and hiking trails; don’t miss the National Park of American Samoa.
Local Markets:
Visit local markets for handmade crafts, souvenirs, and a taste of authentic Samoan life.
Transportation:
Limited public transport; consider renting a car for flexibility in exploring the islands. View Guide.
Local Etiquette:
Use traditional greetings; remove shoes when entering homes; show respect to elders.
Island Hopping:
Explore neighboring islands for a diverse experience; consider Manu’a group for a more remote adventure.
Enjoy your time in American Samoa!
The best of the best
The cuisine of American Samoa reflects the cultural influences of Polynesia, with a blend of traditional Samoan dishes and flavors along with American influences.
Palusami
It consists of young taro leaves wrapped around a filling of coconut cream, onions, and sometimes corned beef.
Fa’apapa
It is a type of coconut bread made from grated coconut, flour, and sugar.
Chicken Sua
Chicken Sua is a popular dish in American Samoa, influenced by Chinese cuisine. It consists of chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings. It is often served over rice or noodles.
Here are some typical foods you might find in American Samoa:
Oka: Oka is a traditional Samoan dish made from raw fish, typically tuna, marinated in lime juice and coconut cream. It is seasoned with onions, chili peppers, and other spices for added flavor. Oka is often served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal.
Coconut-based desserts: Given the abundance of coconuts in American Samoa, coconut-based desserts are common. These include dishes like panikeke (coconut pancakes), coconut bread pudding, and coconut cream pies.
Luau: Luau refers to a traditional feast in American Samoa. It usually features a variety of dishes, including roasted pig, taro, coconut-based desserts, and a range of side dishes. The feast is often prepared for special occasions and cultural celebrations.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can find in American Samoa. The cuisine of American Samoa reflects the rich cultural heritage and local ingredients of the islands.
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