Nestled below the equator, American Samoa National Park’s rainforests, coral reefs, and vibrant Samoan culture await — if you’re willing to go the distance.
Out of 325.5 million visitors to U.S. National Parks in 2023, only 12,135 made it to American Samoa National Park. Though millions flock to the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone every year, this remote U.S. national park sits nearly untouched.
American Samoa National Park’s low visitor numbers are in no way a reflection on the park itself but rather the location, expense, and lack of public awareness.
Most Americans can name their favorite national park, frequently naming Glacier, Zion, or Yosemite. Still, few have heard of American Samoa National Park. Even park enthusiasts say it’s the last park they visit on their quest to explore all 63 official National Parks.
I recently returned from American Samoa National Park. I was amazed by the park’s stunning natural beauty and the warm, welcoming spirit of the residents of American Samoa.
Why American Samoa National Park Is Unique
American Samoa National Park sits in the South Pacific Ocean, within the U.S. territory of American Samoa. It is the only U.S. National Park that sits below the equator and the only park not owned by the Federal Government.
Instead, in 1993, the U.S. Government entered a 50-year land lease from 10 small villages on the islands of Tutuila, Ta’ū, and Ofu.
American Samoa National Park covers approximately 13,500 acres, including land and ocean environments with tropical rainforests, coastal areas, and pristine coral reefs.
It is home to various ecosystems and diverse wildlife — the flying fox, a fruit bat with a 3-foot wingspan, over 950 species of reef fish, and endangered sea turtles.
The park protects the unique biodiversity and traditional Samoan culture while preserving vital ecosystems like rainforests and coral reefs that are crucial to the region’s environmental health.
The Challenges of Getting There
The logistical challenges of getting to American Samoa represent the main barrier visitors face when looking to visit this unique park. There are two main ways of getting to the park, and neither are they inexpensive nor short in duration.
Park enthusiasts visiting American Samoa take a flight to Pago Pago, located on Tutuila. From there, they explore the park on the island or take other flights to the islands of Ta’ū or Ofu.
Only Hawaiian Airlines services Pago Pago from the U.S., offering just two weekly flights from Honolulu to Samoa. The flight, just under 6 hours, typically costs about $1,500 per person round trip. Visitors must also add the cost and time of getting to and from Honolulu.
The way I got there? By cruise. Although not a frequent cruise stop due to its remote location, I sailed on a Disney Cruise Line repositioning cruise from Honolulu to Sydney, Australia, with a port of call on Tutuila.
Once on the island, I joined a tour hosted by a resident who drove us into the park.
This time-consuming, expensive option doesn’t leave much time to explore freely, but it was enough of an introduction to make me want to spend more time there.
Americans still need a valid passport to visit American Samoa, but no visa is required.
Highlights of American Samoa National Park
American Samoa National Park offers visitors an array of natural wonders and activities for those willing to explore its remote landscapes. Scenic hikes take adventurers through lush rainforests to the top of towering cliffs, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding islands.
The verdant rainforests of Tutuila, rugged cliffsides, and crystal-clear waters comprise a visually stunning landscape unlike any other parks I’ve seen.
For marine enthusiasts, the park’s rich coral reefs provide some of the best snorkeling in the region. Off Ofu’s pristine coast, glide through crystal-clear waters alongside vibrant fish and endangered sea turtles.
Visitors can also experience traditional Samoan villages, where locals share customs and cultural practices passed down for generations. Glimpse into a way of life deeply connected to the land and sea, providing a rich, immersive experience. Guests can also use a homestay option alongside locals to immerse themselves completely in the culture.
The Park’s Significance To Local Communities
Natural beauty aside, everyone should make an effort to visit American Samoa. Never, in all of my travels, have I felt so welcome, wanted, and appreciated as a guest.
But many countries — and even U.S. States like Hawaii — face overtourism ecological and economic complications. As a result, some populations show hostility and anger toward tourists. Recently, protesting locals in Amsterdam blocked locks, preventing the arrival of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.
However, every encounter with locals in Samoa was warm, welcoming, and genuine. Locals welcomed us when we docked in Samoa, performing traditional songs and dances. Even the reigning Miss Samoa greeted us.
They stayed at the dock all day, interacting with guests and sharing their stories. They bid us farewell with another traditional song and dance session. We could hear the music and their voices long after the ship pulled away from the dock.
Even with small numbers, tourism to the park brings in just under $1 million annually. In a place with high poverty levels, tourism dollars go a long way.
Visitors to the park also offer the Samoan people a chance to share their heritage, talk about their ancestors, and show you their way of life, something that each person I encountered on my brief visit was excited to do.
Why You Should Visit
For travelers seeking something truly extraordinary, American Samoa National Park offers an experience unlike any other. Its location and natural beauty make it a destination for adventurers wanting more than a typical park visit. Its challenges only add to the reward of stepping into a place few have ever seen.
Visiting American Samoa National Park isn’t just about checking off a box — it’s about embracing the rare opportunity to explore a landscape and culture that feels worlds away from the mainland. Its remoteness, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural connections offer something unique for those looking to go beyond well-trodden paths.
