Traditional villages, beautiful beaches and magnificent fringing reefs line the coast of Upolu, Samoa's most densely populated island, leading inland to a mountainous interior with tumbling waterfalls and lush rainforest. The capital of Apia sits on Upolu's northern coast, its harbour providing the country's main port. Visitors arrive at Faleolo International Airport on the Main West Coast Road, the main route into Apia.

Upolu has an excellent network of roads allowing visitors to take in the sights with ease. Highlights on Upolu include the Palolo Deep National Marine Reserve, flanked by walls of coral and colourful fish, and the stately mansion of Vailima that once belonged to famous author, Robert Louis Stevenson. Nature lovers can visit Le Pupu-Pue National Park, home to Upolu's highest peak Mount Fito (1028m), or walk out to Lake Lanotoo National Park. Upolu is linked to the neighbouring island of Savaii by a ferry service (about 1.5hr). Remember to ask permission at local villages to visit attractions and beaches, as a small fee is usually payable.

Geographic Location

20km southeast of Savaii across the Apolima Strait

Population

115,000

Climate

Warm year round with an average maximum temperature of 29ºC.
Rainy season: November to March.
Cooler season: Temperatures are cooled by south east trade winds from May to November.

Major Attractions

Piula Cave Pool, Fuipisia Waterfall, Sapoaga Falls, Aleipata Coast, Lalomanu Crater Walk, Lalomanu to Lotofaga, Le Pupu-Pue National Park, Togitogiga Falls, Peapea Cave, South Coast Beaches, Saanupu & Satoa Conservation Areas, Lake Lanotoo, Papapapaitai Falls, Diving, Walking, Surfing, Snorkelling.