Driving in Samoa

An easy way to see Samoa, or to transport extended family if you are home for a visit, is to rent a car, 4WD or van and enjoy the freedom of having independent transport.

All international drivers are required to get an endorsement on their full drivers’ licence before they are permitted to drive in Samoa. 

Because traffic in Samoa generally moves at a slow speed – or “island time” - driving in Samoa is relatively safe and easy. The speed limit is generally 35 mph (56 km/h) with slower speed restrictions in villages.

Do keep in mind there are many wandering dogs, pigs etc, and a lot of pedestrians around villages - with few footpaths.

In Samoa, cars drive on the left. This is relatively recent, as vehicles drove on the right-hand side prior to 2009. As a result, you may still see a number of left-hand vehicles in use.

There are few street signs, so it pays to navigate with a map on your phone.