Visit the beauty of Samoa and connect to lives and communities that have been transformed by VSA's volunteer assignments.
18-26 May
2025
NZ$4,948*
Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments.
*Flights to and from Samoa are not included in the trip cost. Click here for information on cost inclusions and exclusions.
2/5
Challenge Grade
NZ$2,500
Fundraising Target
The Difference You'll Make
Volunteer Service Abroad Te Tūao Tāwāhi (VSA) has over 60 years in the development space, making them the country’s largest and most experienced international volunteer organisation. They operate with remote, in-country and local volunteer programmes that offer access to a substantial scope of expertise from skilled New Zealanders.
The connection of people, the building of communities, and the fostering of partnerships are what lie at the heart of their foundation and drives them to reach their vision of a world with thriving communities.
On VSA’s Samoa Adventure 2025, you will have the opportunity to connect to communities that have been helped b volunteer assignments and and to see for yourself the outcomes of your shared mahi and how you and other volunteers have helped to transform lives.
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How it works
FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS
Make a difference
Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.
You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.
Be part of a team
Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.
Trip notes
Day 0, Sunday 18th May 2025: Arrive in Samoa
Upon arrival in Samoa, make your way to Tanoa Tusitala Hotel where you can check into your room and settle in before our tour begins tomorrow.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Meals: None
Day 1, Monday 19th May 2025: VSA Brunch
This morning we’ll gather at the Conference Centre for the VSA Brunch Event where we can meet VSA’s dignitaries and stakeholders. Late morning, you will depart on a tour to Robert Louis Stevensons’ home. His beautiful Villa Vailima has been converted into a museum set within lush gardens. Visit his grave located at the top of Mt Vaea via a hiking trail named by the locals as “The Road of Loving Heart,” where you can rest and take photos of the magnificent panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, Apia Harbour and surrounding villages. Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Vailima Botanical Gardens. Visit the Information Centre and learn about the biodiversity of the Reserve and cool off in the freshwater pool and waterfall of the Loimata o Apaula stream where Robert Louis Stevenson once used to swim. Tonight we walk for to the foreshore for dinner and enjoy the Siva Afi Fire show.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Meals: L D
Day 2, Tuesday 20th May 2025: Samoa Cultural Village
Today begins with breakfast and a walk down to the shopping area on Beach Road which brings us to Samoa Cultural Village. Here, we’ll experience a welcome Ava ceremony and see the art of traditional tattoos along with how traditional food is prepared in an Umu, an earth oven of hot volcanic stones. After this, we’ll make our way to Pacific Jewel Cafe where we can watch the making of the ‘elei fabric, a brightly coloured Samoan traditional designed material. The rest of the afternoon will be at our leisure.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Meals: B L D
Day 3, Wednesday 21st May 2025: : Falefa Falls and Lalomanu
After breakfast, we’ll head off on our full day tour of the South Coast. We begin by travelling east along the coast to Falefa Falls and continuing up the Le Mafa Pass to Uoplu. Here we’ll stop at the top at the Le Mafa Pass Lookout, which offers beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding villages and lush forests. We then set off to Lalomanu, which has recovered after a 2009 tsunami and once again become a popular site for its beach fales that dot the white sand beach. We’ll stop for lunch and a leisurely swim and snorkelling before heading to the To Sua Ocean Trench, also known as the ‘giant swimming hole’, surrounded by beautiful native gardens and spectacular views
From here, we’ll travel west along the south coast and stop at Sopoaga Falls and Togitogiga Falls in the Ole Pupu Pu’e National Park. On the way back to our hotel, we’ll make a quick stop at the Papapapa I Tai Falls to see the beautiful views. Tonight we can relax and enjoy the night with some dinner and traditional Samoan dancing.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Meals: B L D
Day 4, Thursday 22nd May 2025: Salelologa, Savai’i
This morning we’ll check out of our hotel and head off to board our buses for the journey to the ferry terminal, where we’ll hop on a ferry to Salelologa, Savai’i. Upon arrival, we’ll collect our packed lunches en route to the markets. We’ll spend some time here exploring before we move on to Afa A’au waterfall to admire the views and blowholes. After this, we make our way to a Siapo demonstration. Siapo is the Samoan word for a fine cloth made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and is considered one of the region’s finest and most distinctive art forms.
Accommodation: Amoa Resort
Meals: B L D
Day 5, Friday 23rd May 2025: Saleaula Lava Fields and Falealupo
Today we’ll be heading to the peninsular at the western end of the island. On the way, we’ll visit the Saleaula Lava Fields where we’ll see The Virgin’s Grave, untouched by the flow of lava, and the ruins of an old church. We’ll continue further along the coast to Falealupo, which is steeped in legends and stories passed down through generations of Samoans. In the sea at the farthest point of the peninsula, the Fafā, an outcropping of volcanic rocks is said in legends to be the gateway to the underworld ‘Pulotu’ where ‘aitu’ or spirits of the deceased pass through to the other side. We’ll end the night with another dinner at our hotel.
Accommodation: Amoa Resort
Meals: B L D
Day 6, Saturday 24th May 2025: Apia
After breakfast, we’ll head to the wharf at midday. Once we are transferred to Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, we’ll have the afternoon to explore at our own pace. Dinner tonight is at Paddles Restaurant and this will be our farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Trekking distance: km (hours)
Meals: B L D
Day 7, Sunday 25th May 2025: Vavau Village
Sunday is a day of church and rest, so after breakfast you have the option of attending one of the local churches. Today you will sample the Sunday special meal all Samoans enjoy – Sunday Toonai and we will take you out to Le Uaina Hotel for lunch and a swim. As lunch is quite late and large - dinner is not included, however the hotel restaurant is open to dine at leisure.
Accommodation: Tanoa Tusitala Hotel
Meals: B L
Day 8, Monday 26th May: Depart Samoa
We have a very early start this morning as we leave the hotel at 5am for a transfer to the airport where our adventure will end. We say our goodbyes to our teammates and guides and leave with a bunch of new memories!
Meals: B
Included in the cost: • Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Local guide/s • Entrance fees as per itinerary
Not included in the cost: • International Flights • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (compulsory) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities
Why you'll love this adventure
- Visit the beauty of Samoa.
- See the work that has been done to transform lives and build communities.
- Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Refresh and cool off by swimming and snorkelling in natural pools and waterfalls.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 2/5. There is no extensive trekking on this adventure.
How many people will be on my adventure?
We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 25 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we’ll connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we’ll happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You'll be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Who is Inspired Adventures?
Volunteer Service Abroad Aotearoa has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $48 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and OzHarvest, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation is in 3-4 star hotels based on twin-share.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we’ll pair you together.
How do I fundraise?
Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You'll have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we’ll also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.
What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?
It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.
By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we’re looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we’ll review the situation on a case-by-case basis.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?
Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you'll each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
The funds raised for Volunteer Service Abroad Aotearoa are tax-deductible (conditions apply).
How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?
The total cost to participate in this adventure is NZ$4,948* (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit), plus a non-refundable registration fee of $390.
In addition, you are also committing to raising $2,500 (per person) for Volunteer Service Abroad Aotearoa.
What happens if I need to cancel?
- If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.
- Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
- Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for international travel to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you'll need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Australian and New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa for entry into Samoa. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website. If you are a citizen of another nationality, this information may differ.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Find Out More
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