Afu Aau Falls

Afu Aau, sometimes called Olemoe Falls, sits inland from Savai'i's south coast where a river drops over a rock lip into a pool of startling blue-green, deep enough to jump into and surrounded by rainforest and volcanic rock. A short path leads down from the road, and beyond the main pool a second and third level can be reached by scrambling upstream. The water is cool and fresh - a genuine relief in Samoan heat - and because Savai'i receives so few visitors compared with Upolu, there is a decent chance of having it entirely to yourself.

What you actually see

• The main pool - deep blue-green water beneath the falls.
• Upper pools - the scramble upstream to quieter levels.
• The rainforest setting - dense green and volcanic rock around the water.
• Savai'i's quiet - the island's low visitor numbers.

When to go

Flow is strongest in the wetter months from November to April, while the drier May to October window makes the roads and paths easier. Mornings are cooler and quieter. After heavy rain the water can turn brown and the current strengthens.

Honest expectations

Village fees are collected at a small hut and are the correct way of things - the land belongs to the village. Rocks around the pool are slippery and the jump spots need checking for depth. Facilities are minimal: a changing shelter at best. Sundays are quiet across Samoa and some sites close entirely for church. Bring water and insect repellent.

Nearby

Alofaaga blowholes, the Saleaula lava fields and Savai'i's south coast beaches.