Upolu’s 11 Top Tours

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The 11 Best Tours in Upolu

Upolu, the main island of Samoa, offers a rich mix of lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and welcoming local culture. It’s a place where natural beauty and authentic experiences collide, making it an ideal destination for exploring by tour. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure, a relaxing beach trip, or a culture, you’ll find plenty of options. We especially love the Full Day Tour in Samoa with a Local for its comprehensive dive into the island’s highlights or the Namua Turtle Island and Eastern Upolu Tour for its combination of wildlife, natural salt and freshwater swimming, and cultural stories.

Upolu’s varied terrain—from waterfalls and beaches to historic sites—means there’s a tour to match your interests. The tours listed below cover everything from scenic water adventures to cultural excursions, giving you a meaningful way to experience Samoa beyond just lounging on the beach.

Quick Overview

Our list includes full-day explorations, shore excursions, focused natural wonders, and private customized tours. Some of the standout experiences include the Full Day Samoa Tour with a Local (see details here) that combines waterfalls, cultural demonstrations, and historical sites, and the Namua Turtle Island and Eastern Upolu Tour (check it out) which takes you to a private island with turtle sightings.

For those arriving on a cruise, the Apia Highlights Shore Excursion (more info) offers a well-rounded taste of the city and its surroundings. If you’re craving adventure, the Guided Tour to Primeval Crystal Waters of Samoa (see full itinerary) features six different water locations with swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. And for a more personalized experience, the Private Samoa Island Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers (details here) provides a flexible itinerary in a private vehicle.

1. Full Day Tour in Samoa with a Local

At number 1, this full-day tour offers an in-depth look at Samoa’s natural and cultural treasures. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, gain insight into Samoan life, and see iconic waterfalls like Sopoaga Falls and Papapapaitai Falls. It includes demonstrations of traditional Samoan cooking, making it a great way to connect with local culture firsthand.

What makes this tour stand out is its variety—natural wonders, cultural insights, and historical context all rolled into a single day. With rave reviews praising the friendly guide and the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and marvel at geological features, it’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a thorough introduction to Upolu.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a comprehensive, well-rounded day with authentic cultural moments and natural beauty.

2. Namua Turtle Island and Eastern Upolu Tour

Number 2 on our list is a private tour that combines island hopping, waterfalls, and the chance to swim with turtles. Starting with a boat ride to Namua Island, you get a chance to relax on a pristine beach and enjoy snorkeling among sea turtles—an unusual encounter that appeals to wildlife lovers. The tour also covers Lalomanu Beach, one of Samoa’s most famous beaches, and To Sua Ocean Trench, where you descend into a breathtaking natural swimming hole.

The guide, Chief Tai, shares in-depth commentary on Samoan culture, making this trip educational and fun. The Piula Cave Pool and Sopoaga Falls round out the water-based adventures, giving you multiple opportunities to swim in beautiful spots.

Reviews highlight the great storytelling and the relaxing pace, making it ideal for travelers who want a blend of adventure and cultural insight. The private nature and inclusion of snorkeling make it a good value for those seeking exclusive experiences.

Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers and adventure seekers who want a private, personalized day with a cultural twist.

3. Apia Highlights Shore Excursion Tour + Lunch & Island Show

Number 3 is tailored for cruise ship passengers wanting to see Samoa’s key sights without sacrificing comfort or pacing. This shore excursion hits all the main spots: the Old Apia Market, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. It also includes a buffet lunch and an island show, giving you a taste of local music and dance.

This tour is praised for its seamless organization and the flexibility to spend more time at favorite spots. The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is a highlight for literary fans, and the informal market visit offers genuine local flavors.

Reviews underscore how well this tour captures the essence of Samoa while fitting into a cruise schedule, making it a practical choice for short visits.

Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise travelers or first-timers who want a well-paced, rundown with cultural entertainment.

4. Tour Samoa with a local~ Full Day Island Tour of Apia Upolu Samoa

Number 4 offers a full-day exploration of Apia and surrounding highlights with a local guide. It includes stops at markets, the cathedral, and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The tour then ventures along the scenic south coast, with visits to waterfalls, freshwater swimming holes, and a beach.

This tour emphasizes comfort and ease, with hotel pickup and a small group atmosphere. The guide’s local knowledge makes the experience richer, especially for those interested in cultural stories and Samoan daily life.

Guests mention the efficient logistics and the enjoyable lunch at a beach. It’s a good choice for travelers who want an authentic but relaxed day.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a friendly, informative day with the flexibility to see both cultural and natural highlights.

5. Guided Tour to Primeval Crystal Waters of Samoa

This water-focused tour covers six stunning water destinations, including Sauniatu Waterfall, Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, To Sua Ocean Trench, Togitogiga Waterfall, and Papapapaitai Falls. It’s ideal for adventurous, active travelers craving multiple swims and scenic hikes in one day.

Your guide takes you through mountain passes and off-road paths, making this an energetic but rewarding experience. The waterfalls and natural pools are the main draw, and reviews note the tour’s flexibility and the guide’s wit and knowledge.

This tour is perfect if you want to see the best natural water spots in Samoa while staying physically engaged. It’s slightly longer and more intense but offers incredible variety.

Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want a full day of water and scenic adventures with expert guidance.

6. Golf Excursion Activity in Samoa

Number 6 caters to golf lovers wanting to enjoy Samoa’s golf courses while onshore. It includes transportation, golf carts, and clubs, with the option to purchase additional balls. You’ll play on a well-maintained course and enjoy a plated lunch afterward.

Rated highly for friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere, this tour is more about fun and leisure than high-stakes competition. Comments from players mention how the guide even played golf with them, adding a personal touch.

While the experience isn’t a world-class course, it’s a good way to combine sports with sightseeing. It’s best suited for golf enthusiasts or those wanting a low-key activity during their stay.

Bottom Line: A good fit for casual golfers seeking a relaxed round with scenic surroundings.

7. Tour Samoa with a local ~ Half Day Island Tour (Upolu)

Number 7 offers a half-day tour perfect for travelers with limited time. It stops at Fugalei Market, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. The tour ends with a swim at Piula Cave Pool and a simple lunch.

Small in scope but rich in local flavor, this tour is ideal for those wanting a quick but authentic look at Apia and its surroundings. The guide’s friendly approach is often mentioned as a highlight.

This option is best for busy travelers or those arriving late and wanting a taste of Samoa’s culture without a full day commitment.

Bottom Line: Suited for short-term visitors or those with limited time who want to see the highlights without rushing.

8. Cruise Ship Island Tour with Tour Samoa

At number 8, this cruise-specific tour offers a compact yet comprehensive experience. It visits Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the Old Apia Market, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and To Sua Ocean Trench, ending with a scenic stop at Papapapaitai Falls.

Rated 4.5/5, it’s designed to fit cruise schedules while providing a solid overview of Samoa’s highlights, including opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and photo stops. The guide’s ability to keep things on schedule is appreciated.

This tour is suitable for travelers who want an efficient, fun-filled day with a mix of cultural and natural sites.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers who want a balanced taste of Samoa within their limited time.

9. Namua Turtle Island Tour with Snorkeling

Number 9 takes you to Namua Turtle Island, where you can snorkel over coral reefs and see turtles in their natural habitat. The tour also covers Lalomanu Beach, To Sua Ocean Trench, and Sopoaga Falls, with the chance to swim in Piula Cave and underground spring pools.

This all-day excursion is ideal for wildlife lovers and those wanting multiple water experiences. Actual reviews aren’t available, but the itinerary’s focus on snorkeling, turtle sightings, and waterfalls makes it a compelling choice.

The tour balances adventure and relaxation, offering several swimming spots and scenic vistas, perfect for active travelers or families.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those eager to experience marine life and natural pools with a flexible, full-day itinerary.

10. Private Samoa Island Tour For Cruise Ship Passengers

Number 10 offers a customizable private tour tailored entirely to your preferences. It includes stops at Piula Cave Pool, To Sua Ocean Trench, Lalomanu Beach, Togitogiga Waterfall, and Papapapaitai Falls.

Rated for its exclusivity, this tour allows you to select stops and pace your day without the rush of big group tours. The private guide provides insights into Samoan culture and landscapes, making it ideal for travelers who value flexibility and privacy.

While it does come at a higher price point, the personalized service and tailored itinerary could be well worth it for special occasions or those wanting to maximize their time on Samoa.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with personalized attention.

11. Private Shore Tour Scenic Water Wonders of Upolu from Apia

Finally, this private shore excursion emphasizes water-based attractions like the Piula Cave Pool, Lalomanu Beach, and the To Sua Ocean Trench. It includes visits to cascading waterfalls and the tall Papapapaitai Falls for stunning views.

Rated 0/5 (reviews pending), this tour is designed for those who want a personalized and comprehensive water experience. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy Samoa at their own pace.

The focus on natural water features makes this ideal for adventure-minded water lovers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for water enthusiasts seeking a private, all-encompassing day exploring Samoa’s scenic water features.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting the best tour in Upolu, consider your interests, budget, and time availability. If you enjoy comprehensive days with culture and waterfalls, the Full Day Tour in Samoa with a Local (see tour) offers a balanced experience. Visitors wanting water-based adventures should look at the Primeval Crystal Waters tour (more info), which covers multiple swimming spots.

For cruise travelers, the Apia Highlights Shore Excursion (details here) is the most efficient way to see the main sights. If privacy and customization matter, the Private Samoa Island Tour (see it here) can tailor the experience to your pace.

Budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time should consider half-day tours like the Tour Samoa with a local (more info) for a quick but authentic taste. Fitness levels and specific interests—whether wildlife, waterfalls, or culture—should guide your choice accordingly.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours, to ensure availability during peak seasons.

While Samoa offers a wide array of tours, two stand out for their balance of scenery and cultural insight: the Full Day Samoa with a Local, with its detailed exploration of waterfalls and history, and the Namua Turtle Island Tour for its wildlife encounters and private island vibe. Whether you’re after a relaxed beach day, an adventure-packed water tour, or a private customized experience, Samoa’s diverse options won’t disappoint. Take your pick, book early, and enjoy the authentic beauty of Upolu.