January falls in Samoa's wet season with frequent heavy showers and high humidity; short periods of sun between downpours are common. Travel services operate but expect muddy inland trails and higher chance of disruptive weather.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Samoa in January.
Where to Go in Samoa in January
Upolu - Apia & North Coast
Heavy humidity and frequent tropical showers are typical through January around Apia, where late-afternoon downpours can flood streets and make the market lively and sweaty. Expect 25-30°C with sticky evenings; the waterfront and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum sit steamy but still visitable between bursts of rain. Ferry schedules to Savai’i are often delayed in big squalls, so factor in slack time. Pack a quick-dry shirt, light rain jacket and waterproof shoes for slippery promenades.
Upolu - South Coast & Aleipata
Lalomanu, To-Sua
January is typically hot and humid along the Aleipata coast; Lalomanu Beach and To-Sua Ocean Trench remain spectacular but sudden tropical downpours are common and can send runoff into coastal streams. Swimming windows can be short; rough seas may close access to certain reef swimming spots. If you’re staying in beach fale accommodation, expect damp evenings and keep waterproof covers for luggage.
Upolu - Interior Highlands and River Valleys
January’s interior feels close and jungle-like: hot, dripping with humidity, and dotted with powerful waterfalls swollen by rain. Where trails climb near Mt Vaea and the hills behind Apia, expect muddy tracks and spectacular streams - hiking is dramatic but slippery. Bring good boots, insect repellent and a willingness to accept that heavy rains can force you to change plans at short notice.
Savai’i - Islandwide
Salelologa, Afu Aau, Alofaaga Blowholes
January on Savai’i is hot, humid and prone to heavy tropical downpours; Salelologa and coastal villages see the lush island interior saturated and waterfalls in full flow. Road sections can flood and Alofaaga Blowholes are dramatic after heavy rain but viewing platforms may be slippery. If you arrive by ferry, be prepared for delays; plan outdoor excursions with built-in flexibility and pack waterproofs and mosquito repellent.
Manono & Apolima - Small Outer Islets
January is hot, humid and subject to brief but intense showers on the tiny outer islets; Manono and Apolima feel the full maritime climate and have limited infrastructure that can be affected by storms. Sea approaches are more exposed and transfers from Upolu can be postponed in heavy weather, so travel plans should be flexible. When the sun appears, village life is placid and ideal for short cultural visits.
Events & Festivals in January
There are no major festivals or events in Samoa during January to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Samoa?
See how January compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
