Layover in Apia (APW)
Faleolo International Airport (APW). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Apia
Apia is the capital of Samoa. It is on the northern coast of the island of Upolu and has a population of 42,000 (2021). As with most Pacific Island capitals, Apia is a little shabby and run down. Reasonably small in size and with few obvious attractions, Apia is very useful as a stop-off point for first-time visitors to get their bearings, plan travel around the island of Upolu, organise accommodation on the beach, and recover from jet lag. Most of Samoa's highlights are outside the town, although many are within a very short drive.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Stay at the airport | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 7m in the city | About 1h 32m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 7m in the city | About 3h 32m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 7m in the city | About 7h 32m in the city |
Getting into Apia
About 39m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 26 km (16 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Apia?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 5 hours or more to get into Apia and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from APW to central Apia?
Allow about 39m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 26 km (16 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to APW?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.