Lake Lanoto'o National Park National Park

Hours: Open daylight hours

Lake Lanoto’o National Park is a protected area on the island of Upolu in Samoa that conserves volcanic crater lakes and surrounding native forest. It lies within the Tuamasaga administrative district and protects freshwater and upland rainforest habitats rather than large developed facilities.

The park’s main attractions are the crater lakes and short walking tracks through montane forest used for birdwatching and nature walks. Trails and informal viewing points give access to shoreline and forest edges where visitors commonly look for native birds and plants.

The protected area was established by the Samoan government to conserve freshwater ecosystems and native forest on Upolu and to safeguard habitat for endemic species. Management focuses on preventing invasive plants and safeguarding water quality in the crater lakes.

Geographically the park sits inland on Upolu, in the island interior rather than on the coast, surrounded by steep forested slopes and volcanic terrain. The nearest urban centre is Apia on Upolu; the park is accessed by local roads from settlements on the island.

The park is on Savai’i island. Access requires the ferry from Upolu to Savai’i and then a drive inland from Salelologa along the island’s primary roads; follow local signs to the park. A vehicle is recommended for flexibility.

• Expect damp, mossy conditions on trails; non-slip footwear is helpful.
• Hire a local guide for lake-circumference walks to learn about the cultural significance of the sites.
• Respect any village protocols regarding certain lakeside areas that may be considered tapu (sacred).