Road rules

In Samoa, all vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road.

This is relatively new however, as the country drove on the right prior to 2009. So don’t be surprised if you see right-hand drive cars around, and the odd driver on the other side of the road.

Speed restrictions are 40km/h in towns and villages and 55kmp/h on the open road. Drivers should be aware of children and animals, particularly within villages. Samoan roads are not made for speed, and there are often ruts and potholes.

You need a temporary drivers' licence to drive in Samoa - you'll likely come across a checkpoint where you'll need to show both your Samoan and home-country drivers' licences, so it pays to have them both with you whenever you're driving.

You can turn left on a red...

You can make a free left turn on a red light, provided the lane is clear of oncoming traffic.

Many villages have volleyball courts near the road, so be aware at all times of stray volleyballs... you won't be popular with a village’s children if you run over their only ball!