Matafao Peak

Matafao rises to 653 metres, the highest point on Tutuila, a plug of hard rock left standing when softer material eroded away, and the trail up from the Fagasa pass climbs steeply through forest that has grown over much of it, with fixed ropes needed on the last section. The summit is bare rock with the whole island laid out below when the cloud lifts, which it frequently does not. It is a national natural landmark.

Background

In Samoan the mountain is called Fa'asi'usi'uga o Matafao, and its height of 2,142 feet makes it the top of Tutuila. Like Rainmaker Mountain on the far side of Pago Pago Harbor, it is what remains of a volcanic plug. The National Natural Landmark covers the ground above the 492-foot level. Two species, Astronidium and Cyrtandra geminata, grow only on the trachyte plugs of Tutuila, which makes the mountain important for conservation. The village of Fagatogo lies at its foot, and the hike begins where the road from Pago Pago to Fagasa reaches its highest point.

Source: Wikipedia, "Matafao Peak"

What's there

• The summit - 653 metres of bare rock, the highest point on the island.
• The volcanic plug - hard rock left standing as softer material eroded.
• The island view - Tutuila spread out below when the cloud clears.
• The steep trail - the overgrown route up from the Fagasa pass.

When to go

May to September is the drier season and the safest window. Cloud sits on the summit most days. Rain makes the upper section dangerous.

Good to know

The trail is overgrown and poorly maintained with rope sections that are not always in good condition. Cloud closes the view most days. This is a hard climb, not a walk.

Nearby

Pago Pago is east, and the Fagasa pass is at the trailhead.

Key facts