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Home/Countries/Samoa/Nature & outdoors/O Le Pupu-Pue National Park

O Le Pupu-Pue National Park

Samoa's first national park, running from the central ridge down to a lava coast.

Updated 3 September 2026

WhereUpolu
Nearest cityApia
Best seasonMay to October
Time to allowA day
Getting thereOn the south coast road of Upolu; trailheads along the highway
EntrySmall fee

O Le Pupu-Pue was declared in 1978 as the country's first national park and runs in a strip from the top of Upolu's central ridge down to the southern coast, taking in montane forest, lowland rainforest and a stretch of black lava cliff where old flows meet the sea. The O Le Pupu lava coast walk follows that shore. Flying foxes and forest birds use the higher ground, and Togitogiga falls are within the park.

Highlights

  • The lava coast walk - the shore route along black cliffs where old flows meet the sea.
  • The forest belt - the strip running from coast to ridge through several forest types.
  • The flying foxes - the fruit bats using the higher forest.
  • Togitogiga falls - the swimming pools inside the park boundary.

When to go

May to October is the drier season and best for walking. The wet season makes trails muddy and streams high. Mornings are best for birds.

Before you go

Trails are poorly maintained and signage is limited. The coast walk is over sharp lava and needs proper shoes. Facilities within the park are minimal.

Nearby

Togitogiga Falls are inside the park, and Sa'anapu is west along the coast.

What to pack for O Le Pupu-Pue National Park

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
  • Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon
  • Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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