Secure Cheap Flights to American Samoa and Explore the Heart of Polynesia

This is the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hiking through the lush national parks.

A transitional period where the weather remains warm, and the landscape is incredibly vibrant before the heavier rains begin.

The wet season brings humidity and rain, but also lush scenery and the warmest ocean temperatures for swimming.

As the rains subside, the weather becomes more stable, making it a great time for photography and coastal exploration.

Brazilians traveling to American Samoa must understand that this is an unincorporated territory of the United States. However, it maintains its own immigration system separate from the US mainland. You will typically need an entry permit or a specific visa depending on your length of stay. It is vital to apply for these documents well in advance of your departure from Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Since most flights connect through Hawaii, you must also possess a valid US visa to transit through Honolulu. Always verify the latest entry requirements with the local immigration office before you book flights American Samoa to avoid boarding denials at the airport.

Once you arrive at Pago Pago, the most common way to get around is by 'aiga' buses. These brightly painted, family-owned wooden vehicles are a cultural staple and offer an affordable way to see the island. They do not have fixed schedules but run frequently during daylight hours; simply wave one down from the roadside. For more flexibility, car rentals are available at the airport and in town, which is recommended if you plan to explore the National Park of American Samoa. Driving is on the right side of the road, similar to Brazil. Taxis are also available but can be expensive for long distances. Inter-island travel to Manu'a is handled by small planes or occasional ferries, requiring forward planning due to limited capacity and weather-dependent schedules.

The Samoan Way, or Fa'a Samoa, is the traditional code of conduct that governs daily life. Respect for elders and village chiefs is paramount. When visiting villages, dress modestly; swimwear should be kept for the beach. On Sundays, the islands observe a strict day of rest and worship; many businesses close, and loud activities are discouraged. In the evenings, villages observe 'Sa', a short period of prayer usually between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, signaled by a bell or shell. If you are walking through a village during Sa, stop and wait quietly until it concludes. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property. Embracing these local customs will ensure a warm welcome and a much deeper connection with the generous local community during your stay.

Samoan food is centered around fresh, local ingredients like taro, breadfruit, coconut, and fresh seafood. Do not miss the 'umu', a traditional earth oven used to slow-cook succulent pork and fish. A local favorite is 'palusami', which consists of young taro leaves baked with coconut cream. While you will find American-style diners and fast food in Pago Pago, the best experiences are found at local markets. For a true local tip, try 'panikeke', which are round Samoan pancakes sold at roadside stalls. To experience the islands like a local, join a Sunday feast if invited by a resident family. For the best photos and a great atmosphere, head to the Pago Pago harbor at sunset where the mountains meet the sea, providing a dramatic backdrop for your travel memories.