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Samoa Transport

.......car rentals, bus, taxi, ferry!

Renting a car and driving around the islands, is a good way to see the country, as you can stop when you want, and go where you want, unlike a tour. Upolu is best split into two days, and Savai’i can easily be circumnavigated in a day.

NOTE:If you are driving at night, be aware that young Samoans often congregate and sit on the edges of the roads. You need to keep an eye out for them. With limited lighting this can be difficult. You may find it easier to take a taxi.

While at the moment they actually drive on the right hand side of the road......... a left over from their German heritage, they are soon changing to the left side. Personally I would not be keen to drive there around the change over time!

You need to get a temporary Samoan license at the airport. It costs $12WS. They DO check, so don’t think you can get away with not buying one. It could ruin your holiday! We were stopped near the airport, en route to Savaii.

NOTE: Having recently returned from a second trip to Samoa Discovery Rental Cars based at the Airport tried to charge us $35WS for this license .

We had prebooked via an Air New Zealand site online and prepaid $300NZ. However, the rental company then tried to charge an extra $120WS because it was after hours AND bill us $500 tala supposedly refundable if the car was undamaged on return!

Another $655WS !

When we queried these extra costs the answer was" That is our policy and we are sticking to it. If you don't like it use another company." We did........ for a mere fraction of the price!Avis was a much better deal.So do check around..........and be wary of internet bookings for car rentals in Samoa.

If you do not drive there are several tour operators, which is probably your next best option.

Petrol – Be aware the petrol stations are few and far between in remoter areas.

Speed Limits 40 km’s per hour through the towns, and 56 km’s per hour on the open road. Be aware many rental cars have clocks in MILES per hour.

Samoa Transport - Buses

The open air buses, usually packed with locals, may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those keen to try a local experience in these colourful vehicles, they are cheap, and run frequently. You can get a copy of the bus timetable from the Samoa Tourism Authority or email info@visitsamoa.ws

Samoa Transport Taxi Service

Two Wheeled Transport Options!

MOTOR SCOOTERS You can hire these from Apia Jet Ski and Motor Scooter Rentals Ph – (685 )29444

Ferries and Flights!

The ferry service between Upolu and Savai’i is for both passengers and vehicles.The ferry leaves from just past the airport and goes to Salealonga. You can book through the Samoa Shipping Corporation - info@samoashipping.com

DOMESTIC AIRLINE

There is a service run by Polynesian Airlines between Faleolo and Maota at the furthurest end of Savaii. If you are short of time, or without transport this may be you best option, as the hotel will probably be happy to send a driver to pick you up.

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