National Park of American Samoa
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Two rain forest preserves and a coral reef are home to unique tropical animals
including the Flying Fox, Pacific Boa, tortoises, and an array of birds and
fish. The park contains paleotropical rain forests, pristine coral reefs,
and magnificent white sand beaches. A new park visitor center is located in
Pago Plaza office building located on the island of Tutuila. The park was
authorized on October 31, 1988. Park lands are on three separate islands;
Tutuila, Ofu and Tau, and total 9,000 acres. All of the lands are leased from
the respective villages.
Directions
The nearest airport is Pago Pago International Airport on Tutuila. Airplane
service is available several times per week from Honolulu. Regularly scheduled
flights (small planes) serve park areas of Ofu and Tau, and the nearby nation
of Samoa. Local "AIGA" buses travel Tutuila from dawn to dusk. Taxi
service and rental cars are available. There is hotel-style lodging on all
three islands. Camping is prohibited within the park. Samoan people are hospitable
and eager to share their culture with park visitors. You are encouraged to
stay with a Samoan family in a village during your visit. Make arrangements
through the park staff.
Visitor
Activities
On Tutuila a scenic road leads from Pago Pago to the north coast. Allow a
few hours for this drive, including stops. You may wish to stay overnight
in the village of Afono or Vatia. Along the scenic drive there are panoramic
views, especially from Afono Pass. The Amalau Valley is a good place to watch
above the trees from flying fox (fruit bats).
On the island of Ofu a section of pristine shoreline and fringing reef is
protected within the national park. The beach is fine coral sand, ideal for
walking long stretches uninterrupted. The coral communities are some of the
healthiest in the South Pacific. This is an ideal place to snorkel. Your must
bring gear from Tutuila. Before you visit Ofu check with park staff about
special rules that apply.
On Tau the park area includes the southeastern half of the island. Stay overnight
in the village of Fitiuta on the northeast coast or in Faleasao or Tau in
the northwest. You can rent cars locally. Visit Saua, a sacred site considered
by many to be the birthplace of the Polynesian people. Hike along the beaches;
if you hike in remote areas, go with a guide. Arrange guide service through
the park staff. Watch the sky for flying foxes. The south shore has 3000 foot
sea cliffs, the tallest in the world.
Fees
No entrance fee.
Camping
and lodging
Park land is leased from private landowners. Camping requires the permission
of landowners. Lodging outside the park is available.
Food and
supplies
Available in nearby villages.
Climate
American Samoa is in the South Pacific Ocean, between the Equator and the
Tropic of Capricorn; tropical climate prevails. Temperatures are warm or hot
year round (high 70's t low 90's F) with high humidity. Rain showers are frequent.
General
information for a safe visit
Visitors should not expect typical developed mainland facility and service
standards. Solar radiation is intense! Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat,
and protective clothing. Carry insect repellent. Always snorkel with a partner.
While on the beach areas, watch out for falling coconuts. Coral rubble beaches
are difficult to walk on; watch your step. Be especially careful of rocky
areas, which are slippery. Never hike without water;carry 2 to 3 liters per
person. Don't touch the coral! Cuts from coral take a long time to heal. Medical
treatment is only available on Tutuila. Contact park headquarters for trip
planning information.
Contact the
park
Mail: Superintendent
The National Park of American
Samoa
Pago Pago, AS 96799-0001
Telephone: 011-684-633-7082
Fax: 011-684-633-7085
E-mail NPSA_Administration@nps.gov
Last Updated:Sunday, 18-Jul-99 14:54:25
http://www.nps.gov/npsa/