Top Samoa Transport Choices: Reviews & Recommendations

by

Top Samoa Transport Choices: Reviews & Recommendations

Samoa Transportation

Okay, so picture this: you’re arriving in Samoa, ready for some sun, sand, and amazing adventures. Yet, to really make the most of your time on these gorgeous islands, you definitely need to figure out how to get around. Don’t worry, figuring it all out can be surprisingly simple, so this guide covers what’s out there for transport, and includes some suggestions to think about when planning your travel.

1. Renting a Car in Samoa: Your Island Freedom

Samoa Car Rental

Seriously, for many travelers, grabbing a rental car might just be the ultimate way to see Samoa. With your own set of wheels, the islands open up, and you can head where you like, and when. Think about stopping at any of the little roadside stalls that catch your eye, or making a quick detour to check out that inviting bit of coastline you spot while driving by. Freedom, after all, really is key.

The main thing is, you’ll find a handful of car rental spots right at Faleolo International Airport (APW) on Upolu, making it simple enough to grab a car pretty much right after you land. Yet, booking ahead is, like your best bet, more so during the peak tourist seasons. That way, you actually get the car you want, and sometimes, too it’s possible you might even score a better deal. Spots, such as, say, Avis and local Samoan outfits, for example, offer anything from smaller economy cars, to the larger SUVs, which can be handy if, say, you’re heading off on the somewhat bumpier roads or up into the highlands. The other main thing is that driving in Samoa is generally pretty easy, as most roads on Upolu and Savai’i are reasonably well-maintained. The one thing that might be new is that they drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Here are, in fact, a few well-regarded local car rental places to consider:

“A rental car in Samoa isn’t just transport; it’s your ticket to explore the hidden gems at your own pace.”

2. Samoan Buses: A Local Experience

Samoa Local Buses

Okay, so taking the bus in Samoa isn’t just about going from one place to the next; it is that completely genuine slice of Samoan life, yet. So, you’ll spot these vibrant, brightly decorated buses all over the islands, generally each rocking its own name and often blasting some island tunes. It really is an experience for the senses, really.

You’ll find that the main bus terminal is located in Apia, which basically acts as the hub for most routes right across Upolu. It’s a super cheap way to get around, and generally connects all the main villages and towns, very, very reliably. Buses actually run pretty frequently during the week, too it’s almost like they slow down quite a bit on Sundays. This might be since Sundays are a very quiet day in Samoa, given cultural and religious practices.

Something to think about is that, while taking the bus is cheap and, like your culturally enriching, it might not be the most speedy way of getting about. Like, services often stop at just about every village, and the schedules, these can be somewhat, well, “flexible.” You should double-check that the buses mostly fill up before setting off.

You know, what really makes traveling by bus worthwhile is a bit more simple: the people. You might strike up conversations with locals, listen to their stories, and so, too it’s almost getting a real feel for Samoan culture, very naturally. So, do remember to have small bills handy, as you can actually pay the driver directly when you get on.

3. Taxis in Samoa: Convenience at a Cost

Samoa Taxis

Think about taxis, those are clearly the most convenient, maybe somewhat pricer way to travel around Samoa. In towns, such as, say, Apia, finding a cab is very rarely a hassle, so that getting around locally is mostly trouble-free. Still, there can be occasions when they might be more tricky to come by, notably in far flung rural parts of the island.

Taxis normally operate using meters, however, do always confirm that the meter’s running as you set off, yet, to basically avoid misunderstandings further down the road. Maybe consider agreeing on a fare beforehand, very specially if you’re going on a longer trip, say, out of town. For many people it can be easier, to simply book in advance so they do not have to wait, which you know can be pretty typical in more rural areas.

Keep in mind, even though taxis do give you a comfortable and simple solution, it’s probably worth thinking about that it is one of the priciest travel choices in comparison with the local bus services. For that reason, consider it for short commutes, excursions that demand extra expediency, or circumstances that mean waiting at the bus station will not be ideal.

Here’s are some local taxi firms to think about for your time in Samoa:

4. Ferries Between Upolu and Savai’i

Samoa Ferries

In order to island-hop between Upolu and Savai’i, so there are regular ferry services and they give not only practical connectivity but equally, quite fantastic oceanic views. These are operating between Mulifanua Wharf on Upolu with Salelologa Wharf located in Savai’i.

Typically ferries actually run multiple times daily. So, just keep your eyes peeled because timetables often vary. What to think about: keeping an eye out on local announcements for any kind of unplanned adjustments brought on by sea problems as well as national holidays might be well worth it, seriously. There’s generally a choice to either get on board as a foot traveler or even deliver your hire car onboard; in either case just make sure you appear early since places can go very, very fast!

With regards to the crossing itself, so usually it can take about 60 to 90 mins so that, too it’s almost adding an awesome mini-cruise onto any getaway schedule is just what anyone needs, really. Get those cameras and smartphones prepped way before and just simply keep aware; scoping dolphins right up to spectacular shorelines would only be glimpses far too unforgettable not capture on digital camera, really. Don’t worry and also be aware on those journeys of specifically designated seating assignments coupled with refreshment vendors on the spot.

“The ferry trip between Upolu and Savai’i offers stunning views, making the transit an experience in itself.”

5. Private Transfers and Shuttle Services

Samoa Private Transfers

Considering private cars as well as shuttle products during Samoa could simply create simple, door-to-door travel; best when visiting having considerable baggage and perhaps you would like more luxurious or direct connectivity choices, right then booking in advance for private transports seems genuinely appropriate indeed. Many hotels alongside location excursions normally arrange specialized pickups; taking away, say, those headaches linked to flagging down local taxis maybe?

The crucial features that actually go together with opting private cars will need that convenience along with tailoring towards scheduling prerequisites quite personally. Simply picture ending arriving into Faleolo Airport knowing full well anyone awaiting merely outside will provide instantaneous carryings specifically at just any inn, very effortlessly certainly. Very specially if pacing various venues including little knowledge across location transporting ways it will remove unneeded waiting times too! Seriously make certain specifically those car vendors picked do feature excellent standing with regards safety in addition credibility while examining those recommendations from fellow visitors too, perhaps?

For anyone keen to go to numerous sights on a more relaxed rhythm, it feels like organizing vehicles complete alongside nearby individuals feels beneficial. Actually make perfectly clear that you can make very distinct requirements concerning scheduling even if you just simply decide when exploring hidden wonders along the Samoan landscape.

Read our full review: Samoa Travel & Transportation Services Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check transport here)