Birdwatching on Lower Sauma Trail
Over 35 species of native birds fly in American Samoa’s skies. Each has its own story and place in our culture.
Pets allowed
National Park Service site · AS
The National Park Service lists 9 things to do at National Park of American Samoa. 8 have no extra fee, 9 need no reservation, and 5 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.
Updated · NPS Data API
Over 35 species of native birds fly in American Samoa’s skies. Each has its own story and place in our culture.
Pets allowed
Fruit bats are the only native mammals found in American Samoa. The two species of fruit bat and one insect-eating bat species are harmless to people. They have a wingspan close to three feet. As fruit eaters, fruit bats are excellent and vital pollinators.
Easy = 0.4mi/0.64km total; 232ft/7m elevation gain; 30-45 minutes. A gentle climb to an archaeological site featuring ancient grinding stones, this trail combines history with incredible views of the northeast coastline and the Vai’ava Strait.
Difficult = 7mi/11.27km total; 1,607ft/490m elevation gain; 4-5 hours. Trail can be steep, slippery, and rocky in places. Stunning panoramic views from the summit. Lush rainforest environment, great for bird and fruit bat watching.
Pets allowed
Easy = 0.1mi/0.16km total; 30ft/9m elevation gain; 15-30 minutes. This short, easy trail leads you to the untouched shores of the South Pacific; delivering big rewards with views of the rugged coastline and Pola Island, a sanctuary for nesting seabirds.
Pets allowed
Each island of American Samoa supports a coral reef ecosystem in its coastal waters. These coral reefs support a variety of marine life typical of tropical Indo-Pacific waters.
Snorkeling
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About one mile southeast of Tutuila’s eastern tip is the volcanic island of ‘Aunu’u, the smallest inhabited island. It can be reached by boat and explored by foot.
Fee applies
Moderate = 2.2mi/3.54km total; 219ft/67m elevation gain; 2-3 hours. The trail leads you via ladders, steps, and ropes to a rocky beach, where you can enjoy the sound of the waves and take in the Western view of Pola Island.
Pets allowed
Strenuous = 3.2mi/5.15km total; 1,489ft/454m elevation gain; 3-4 hours. Hike a challenging trail through a dense rainforest, surrounded by native trees and birds. Enjoy one of the island’s most beautiful views of Vatia village and Pola Island at the summit.
Pets allowed
Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for National Park of American Samoa. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.
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