FAQ's
How big is the park?
Established on October 31, 1988, the National Park of American Samoa is a total of 13,500 acres. 9,500 of these acres are land and 4,000 are marine.
How many islands make up the archipelago?
American Samoa is comprised of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls. The largest of these islands is the island of Tutuila.
What does it mean if I see white coral?
Unfortunately such sightings are becoming more and more commonplace. Although quite pretty, white coral is not a good sign. Coral commonly turns white from two things: fisherman pouring in Clorox bleach to kill fish and consequently everything else in the immediate vicinity and in unseasonably warm waters. If you see white coral, please notify a park official.
When is the best time to visit the park?
Because of its proximity to the equator, anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful place. Year round heat and a rainy climate are characteristic, except in June through September, which is considered the “dry season”.
Who are the indigenous people?
The American Samoa indigenous people are Samoans of Polynesian ancestry, arriving nearly 3,000 years ago from Asia. The vast majority of the island's permanent inhabitants are natives. They named the land Samoa, which means “sacred earth”, reflecting the relationship they share with nature. Visitors should read about their culture, fa'asamoa, often referred to as the Samoan Way, before arrival. The following link provides an outline of their beliefs and traditions: http://www.nps.gov/npsa/historyculture/faasamoa.htm
Established on October 31, 1988, the National Park of American Samoa is a total of 13,500 acres. 9,500 of these acres are land and 4,000 are marine.
How many islands make up the archipelago?
American Samoa is comprised of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls. The largest of these islands is the island of Tutuila.
What does it mean if I see white coral?
Unfortunately such sightings are becoming more and more commonplace. Although quite pretty, white coral is not a good sign. Coral commonly turns white from two things: fisherman pouring in Clorox bleach to kill fish and consequently everything else in the immediate vicinity and in unseasonably warm waters. If you see white coral, please notify a park official.
When is the best time to visit the park?
Because of its proximity to the equator, anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful place. Year round heat and a rainy climate are characteristic, except in June through September, which is considered the “dry season”.
Who are the indigenous people?
The American Samoa indigenous people are Samoans of Polynesian ancestry, arriving nearly 3,000 years ago from Asia. The vast majority of the island's permanent inhabitants are natives. They named the land Samoa, which means “sacred earth”, reflecting the relationship they share with nature. Visitors should read about their culture, fa'asamoa, often referred to as the Samoan Way, before arrival. The following link provides an outline of their beliefs and traditions: http://www.nps.gov/npsa/historyculture/faasamoa.htm
.
What types of animals will I see in the rainforest?
Although our rainforests lack the characteristic monkeys and tigers, they are no less interesting. Expect to see bats, and lots of them! There are only three native mammal species on these islands and they are all bats. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the endangered Samoan flying fox, a fruit bat with a wingspan comparable to that of a barn owl. An abundance of reptiles, rodents, and beautiful birds are sure to provide breathtaking after breathtaking sites.
What should I wear?
Rain is an ever present possibility so plan accordingly. Other than that, your average summer wardrobe should do just fine. Despite a lack of an official dress code, modest clothes are highly suggested out of respect for the native culture. Shoulders and knees should be covered and bikinis are discouraged.
What is the likelihood of a tsunami or cyclone?
Tsunamis and cyclones are not uncommon in this part of the world but are also very unpredictable. Because of their recurrences and advances in modern technology, reaction time is faster and there are many precautions in place. If you hear a tsunami or cyclone warning, yield the instructions that are broadcasted over radio and local TV channels and do not try to go out and take pictures of the storm if you want to live to tell the tale!
What sort of accommodations are available when I arrive?
Along with aiding in the upkeep of the Park, the natives offer a special opportunity: their home-stay program. This allows visitors to not only experience the nature of American Samoa, but to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions as well by staying in a Samoan village with a Samoan family and participating in their day to day activities. For more information on this unique program, visit the following website:
http://www.nps.gov/npsa/historyculture/homestay.htm
What is the entrance fee?
The National Park of American Samoa is free to all nature lovers and requires no reservation. Just show up!
Where can I go for more information once I get to the park?
Our helpful visitor’s center in Pago Pago can help answer any questions you have during your stay. It is located past the McDonald’s (yes, we have a McDonalds!) and across from the Pago Way Service Station. It is closed on weekend but available on weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Although our rainforests lack the characteristic monkeys and tigers, they are no less interesting. Expect to see bats, and lots of them! There are only three native mammal species on these islands and they are all bats. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the endangered Samoan flying fox, a fruit bat with a wingspan comparable to that of a barn owl. An abundance of reptiles, rodents, and beautiful birds are sure to provide breathtaking after breathtaking sites.
What should I wear?
Rain is an ever present possibility so plan accordingly. Other than that, your average summer wardrobe should do just fine. Despite a lack of an official dress code, modest clothes are highly suggested out of respect for the native culture. Shoulders and knees should be covered and bikinis are discouraged.
What is the likelihood of a tsunami or cyclone?
Tsunamis and cyclones are not uncommon in this part of the world but are also very unpredictable. Because of their recurrences and advances in modern technology, reaction time is faster and there are many precautions in place. If you hear a tsunami or cyclone warning, yield the instructions that are broadcasted over radio and local TV channels and do not try to go out and take pictures of the storm if you want to live to tell the tale!
What sort of accommodations are available when I arrive?
Along with aiding in the upkeep of the Park, the natives offer a special opportunity: their home-stay program. This allows visitors to not only experience the nature of American Samoa, but to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions as well by staying in a Samoan village with a Samoan family and participating in their day to day activities. For more information on this unique program, visit the following website:
http://www.nps.gov/npsa/historyculture/homestay.htm
What is the entrance fee?
The National Park of American Samoa is free to all nature lovers and requires no reservation. Just show up!
Where can I go for more information once I get to the park?
Our helpful visitor’s center in Pago Pago can help answer any questions you have during your stay. It is located past the McDonald’s (yes, we have a McDonalds!) and across from the Pago Way Service Station. It is closed on weekend but available on weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.