Samoa offers an array of options for sustainable tourism

Samoa, a small island country in the central South Pacific Ocean, offers five ways for travellers to maintain their commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.

Recent research from Booking.com revealed 83% of global travellers think sustainable tourism is vital, with 61% saying the pandemic has made them want to travel more sustainably in the future and 73% preferring an eco-sustainable hotel rather than a traditional one.

Samoa offers eco-conscious families, couples and adventure seekers, crystal clear turquoise waters, stunning waterholes, lush rainforest trails and pristine reefs that abound with marine life.

Samoa’s azure waters and lush rainforests are protected by Fa’a Samoa or ‘The Samoan Way’ – a 3000-year-old living tradition and cultural code that incorporates a respect for the island’s pristine environment and a duty to protect and preserve it.

Green travel is easy in Samoa with eco-conscious accommodation (stay in a traditional fale built from locally cut timber and coconut sennit perched on the beach), organic food (think: locally-sourced fruit and vegetables pulled straight from the garden), eco tours (there’s a range of walking tours spanning from three hours to three days), and beautiful natural assets to explore (swimming, diving, snorkelling, surfing).

There are a range of activities and sightseeing that can be enjoyed with a minimal carbon footprint. The following are five ways to travel more sustainably around Samoa, while helping to maintain its untouched landscapes.

1. Opt for a walking tour. Cut down your carbon footprint and explore one of the many scenic walks Samoa has to offer, such as the Falealupo Canopy Walkway – a hanging bridge built approximately 40 metres above the ground that weaves through the branches of giant banyan trees. The Tafua Crater, also provides magnificent views of neighbouring coastal villages once you reach the top of the crater. If you’re looking for a multi-day trek, the Mt Silisili walk gives travellers a chance to stay with a local Samoan family and immerse themselves in the rich culture.

2.Stay in eco-conscious accommodation: Samoa values green living and this focus on sustainable tourism means that Samoa is bustling with environmentally-friendly accommodation options such as the Dave Parker Eco Lodge. Offering an eco-conscious experience in an idyllic setting, the resort is built on a lush forested hillside overlooking the town of Apia and across the big island of Savaii. Alternatively, opt for a beachside stay in a traditional beach Fale. The Taufua Beach Fales are located on world-famous Lalomanu Beach, regularly voted in the top five "Best Beaches" in the Pacific.

3. Catch a local bus to see the sights: Not only is taking the bus a great way to be eco-conscious when seeing the tourist attractions of Samoa, but it’s also an attraction in itself! The colourful and retro-style buses are caught by waving one down as it approaches. All buses are named with their destination, which makes it an easy way to get around and explore the islands. Just remember, you’ll be on island time here – it’s not unheard of for buses to stop at supermarkets and wait while passengers do their shopping!

4. Indulge in an organic meal: Samoa is home to an abundance of fresh and locally grown produce, which you can enjoy and one of their many organic cafes and restaurants. Indulge in Ocean-Farm-to-Table cuisine with a seasonal and ethical focus at venues such as Nourish or Legends Cafe in Apia, or Vailili Restaurant in Savai’i.

5. Support local operators: One of the best things about exploring Samoa is that by visiting most of their spectacular waterfalls, swimming holes or beaches, you are actually supporting local families. Often these hidden gems are situated among private property, and for a small fee, travellers are able to enter and discover the natural wonders. All fees go directly to supporting the individual or family who owns the land.

Image top: Falealupo Canopy Walk Savaii; Image centre: Samoan  local bus; Image above: To-Sua Ocean Trench. All images: Samoa Tourism Authority (STA)

Recent research from Booking.com revealed 83% of global travellers think sustainable tourism is vital .