Travel Tips - Ofo and Tau Travel Information

Ofu and Tau
Travel Information

Ofu and Tau

Ofu

Fifteen minutes by ferry from Tutuila is the tiny, quiet island of Aunu'u. Easily explored in a day (but don't go on Sunday; you won't be welcome), the island is an accessible respite from the traffic chaos of Pago Pago. Pala Lake is a beautiful expanse of fiery red quicksand - extraordinary from the edge, deadly in the middle. On the far side of the island from the ferry harbour is Ma'ama'a Cove, a cauldron of surf, spray and rocks. It's a wild, entertaining natural display.

Ofu is the most dramatic and beautiful of the Manu'a Islands. It's the easiest to visit, and the one most often seen by outsiders. Ofu's crown jewel is its south-coast beach - the 2.5mi (4km) stretch of white sand is one of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. Bring your snorkelling equipment: the waters here are part of the national park, and there's some excellent viewing of 300 species of fish and 150 of coral. In 1987, archaeologists found an uprecedented array of prehistoric Samoan artefacts behind the beach at the To'aga Site.

Ta'u

Part of the historically significant Manu'a islands, Ta'u was the spiritual 'capital' of Polynesia prior to Western colonisation. The island features many traditionally significant sites - including the tombs of the last Tu'i Manu'a (the paramount chiefs of these islands) - and stunning natural sights. It's possible to fly from Tutuila - a distance of about 75mi (120km) - and you're advised to bring your own food as supplies are scarce.

Make sure you visit Judds Crater. It's a six-hour walk from Ta'u village, and is a huge volcanic crater. Although impressive, getting there is most of the challenge. You'll need a local guide and lots of water. In the near future, the National Park rangers are planning a walking track to the crater. This will make the trip considerably easier, but much less of an adventure.

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