In short, it's perfect for a cycling holiday. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or more of the recreational variety, pedalling between your nightly beachside fale accommodation scattered around Savai'i is possible for most ages and abilities.
The secret is to start early, stop often and rush less, soak in the amazing scenery and meet some friendly locals along the way.
By bike you see and experience so much more. Meet and chat with the local people - even if you’re just stopping to ask for directions - and get an authentic glimpse into a way of life that is harder to experience from inside a car.
Samoa’s coastal ring roads are perfectly suited for a cycling holiday of any speed. Largely flat - only a few hills will face you as you ride your way around both islands - you are unlikely to encounter much, if any, traffic moving at speed.
Hiring a bike and just seeing where the day takes you is a great way to see Samoa.
Pedal leisurely from the beach to the village, village to river and river to fale - and be sure to make plenty of stops along the way to really soak in this beautiful Pacific paradise.
Pre-book your bike hire before you arrive in Samoa to be sure you get what you want.
Once you and your bike meet, take it for a quick test pedal to not only test the brakes and gears but because if it’s unusually uncomfortable now then it is unlikely to improve 100km down the road.
Booking a cycle tour, be it a day or a week, means you’re in expert hands when it comes to finding accommodation, great places to eat, the best scenic stops and sourcing gear or support.
Tours can be either personally escorted, or it can mean there is a support vehicle that takes your bags to the next destination, which has already been planned for you.
Bikes and gear can either be brought with you on the plane, or you can hire it in Samoa. It is recommended to ride a mountain or cyclocross bike rather than a touring road bike, as Samoa’s road conditions can vary.
A major advantage to cycling Samoa is that you don't need to pack a tent, sleeping bag or much food: there are plenty of accommodation fales available on both Savai’i, and it’s too hot for sleeping bags.
Many fales are basic, with just a sheet-covered mattress, pillow, mosquito net and shared bathroom facilities, and most offer a hearty and nourishing dinner and breakfast in the modest price.
Note that you cannot bring a tent and put it up anywhere because beaches and land are often owned by nearby villages.
If you are wanting air conditioning during all of your stays, it pays to book ahead and secure those rooms well in advance.
Cycling around Samoa isn't limited to riding the coastal roads.
Bring or hire a more advanced variety of mountain bike to explore some of the many off-road tracks, or rugged roads leading to secluded beaches or even up some of Samoa’s many volcanic peaks.
Because scenic stops are so frequent and close together, cycling with family members of any age is completely realistic in Samoa, depending on your child’s ability.
If you opt for a fully supported tour, those with tired legs or suffering in the heat can even hitch a ride with the support vehicle if they need to.
Because of Samoa’s warmth, prepare to adopt a leisurely pace, just like the locals do.
To make your cycling holiday the best experience it can be, it may be wise to plan shorter distances each day, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and sitting on beautiful beaches with a drink.
Try to leave early in the morning and spend the heat of the afternoon off the road.
Bike riding is thirsty work, and you’ll need plenty of water to keep you going in this warm climate. But, don’t be tempted to fill your drink bottle from a tap as drinking untreated water is not recommended.
If you are unable to source or transport enough bottled water, then pack a high-quality water filter or water purification drops or tablets.
Be sure to use a lock for your bike and keep watch over your cash, passport, phone, camera and anything else you intend to leave in a fale or on a beach while you swim.
