The park is home to unique wildlife, including the endangered Samoan flying fox, a fruit bat with a three-foot wingspan that plays a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal. The park's waters support over 950 fish species and more than 250 coral species. Notable terrestrial wildlife includes the Pacific boa, various skinks, and numerous bird species such as the rare many-colored fruit dove and the white-collared kingfisher. The park's waters are also seasonal breeding grounds for humpback whales. A distinctive feature is the presence of the coconut crab, the world's largest terrestrial arthropod, which can reach up to three feet across.
The park protects over 485 native plant species, including 325 flowering plants and 135 ferns. The rainforest canopy features massive tropical trees like the giant banyan and various species of fig trees. Endemic species include the tropical hardwood tava, used traditionally in Samoan woodcarving. The coastal areas host unique strand vegetation adapted to salt spray and sandy soils, including coconut palms and pandanus trees. Nearly 30% of the plant species in the park are endemic to Samoa, making it a crucial sanctuary for Pacific Island biodiversity. The park's varied elevations create distinct vegetation zones, from coastal forests to cloud forests at higher elevations.
The park's dramatic landscape was formed by volcanic activity, featuring steep cliffs, rocky coastlines, and ancient lava flows. The islands are part of a volcanic chain created by the movement of the Pacific Plate over a hotspot in Earth's crust. The park spans three islands: Tutuila, Ta'u, and Ofu, each showcasing distinct geological features. Tutuila exhibits dramatic ridgelines and valleys, while Ta'u features towering cliffs and the recent (1866) Luatele Shield Volcano. The Ofu unit contains spectacular coral reefs and beaches formed from eroded volcanic materials. The highest point in the park is Mount Lata on Ta'u, reaching 3,170 feet (966 meters).
The National Park of American Samoa was established in 1988, becoming the only U.S. National Park south of the equator. The park's creation involved a unique arrangement where the National Park Service leases the land from eight villages, respecting the traditional Samoan communal land system. This partnership preserves both the natural resources and the fa'asamoa (the Samoan way of life). The area has been inhabited by Polynesians for over 3,000 years, with their rich cultural heritage deeply intertwined with the land. The park represents a groundbreaking model of conservation that combines environmental protection with cultural preservation.
The park's most remarkable features include the pristine coral reefs off Ofu Beach, considered among the finest in the National Park System. The Pola Island Trail offers spectacular views of volcanic cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. The Mount 'Alava Adventure Trail provides a challenging hike with panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor. The park's unique paleotropical rainforest is one of the few remaining in the U.S. territories. The Ta'u unit contains some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world, rising dramatically from the ocean. Cultural sites include ancient star mounds used by Samoan chiefs and traditional Samoan structures that showcase the islands' rich cultural heritage. The park also features exceptional snorkeling opportunities, particularly in the Ofu unit's coral reefs.
The National Park of American Samoa experiences a tropical rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round, averaging 80-85°F (27-29°C). The region has two primary seasons: a wet season from October to May and a relatively drier season from June to September. Humidity levels remain high throughout the year, typically above 80%. Annual rainfall averages about 125 inches (3,175mm) in the coastal areas and up to 200 inches (5,080mm) in the mountainous regions. Despite the tropical location, the park rarely experiences severe tropical storms, though occasional cyclones can occur during the Southern Hemisphere's summer months.
USA
-14.2580°, -170.6830°
October 31, 1988
33.4
The National Park of American Samoa is spread across three islands in the South Pacific. It protects unique tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and Samoan culture. The park is home to unique flying foxes, tropical birds, and pristine coral reef ecosystems.