O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park

O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park is a protected area on Upolu Island that combines mountains with karst caves and volcanic cliffs in a single landscape. The park contains underground passages, forested slopes, and rocky coastal formations that work together as an interconnected ecosystem.

The area was placed under protection in 1978, making it the first national park initiative in the southern Pacific region. This early conservation effort demonstrated that Samoa prioritized protecting its natural environment.

The name combines two landscape features: Le Pupu refers to the coastal lava cliffs, while Puʿe means mountain in the local language. This pairing reflects how people here see the connection between volcanic geology and the island's natural identity.

Access is easiest via the South Coast Road using local buses or taxis, though guided tours are highly recommended for safety and context. Start your visit early in the day since exploring the caves and reaching viewpoints can take several hours.

The Pe'ape'a caves shelter a large colony of White-rumped Swiftlets, bird species found nowhere else in this part of the world. Reaching these caves involves hiking through dense forest and climbing over rocky terrain, making the journey itself a memorable adventure.

Elevation above the sea: 350 m

GPS coordinates: -13.96939,-171.72352

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:46