Where Samoa happens.

Wildlife · Savaii · North Coast

Village-run turtle pool on Savai'i's north coast where green turtles are hand-fed and visitors can swim alongside them. About 30 minutes from Manase. Note: these are captive turtles in a freshwater pool — for genuine wild-turtle encounters Manase or Lano lagoons are better.

Wildlife · Upolu · Inland

Bright-green volcanic crater lake high in the central Upolu rainforest, ringed by dense bush and full of feral goldfish (introduced in the 1880s and now thriving). The 6km return hike from the road climbs through cloud forest with several muddy stretches — wear good shoes, take a guide if rains have been heavy. The lake itself is shallow but cold and remarkably clear.

Wildlife · Upolu · South Coast

Marine reserve at Savaia village on south Upolu, protecting hundreds of giant clams in the shallow lagoon. Snorkel-only access — the clams sit two-to-three metres down, brilliant blue-and-green mantles cracking open and closed. Pay the village fee, bring your own gear.