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Mount Matavanu

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Mount Matavanu is an active volcano on the island of Savai'i, whose eruption between 1905 and 1911 permanently altered the island's landscape. During this six-year eruption, massive lava flows moved northward, burying entire villages and fertile agricultural land under meters of basalt. Today, the crater rim is accessible via a rugged 4WD track and provides a spectacular view into the maw of the volcano as well as a sweeping view over the solidified lava fields down to the ocean. The geology of Matavanu is characterized by pahoehoe lava, which forms smooth, rope-like surfaces, creating a surreal, moon-like panorama. Although the volcano is currently dormant, it is part of the volcanic hotspot that created Samoa and is geologically monitored. Around the crater, vegetation is slowly beginning to reclaim the hard rock, representing a fascinating example of primary ecological succession. Mount Matavanu remains one of the most impressive testimonies to the power of nature in the Pacific.

Location: Samoa
Nearby: Samalae'ulu Uta (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	28	28	27	27	27	28	28	28
Rain mm	262	254	166	154	129	101	81	64	89	141	208	220

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Mount Matavanu is an active volcano on Savai'i and can be viewed from the outside, but the crater itself is not always accessible. Hikes to the summit are possible but require a local guide and proper footwear.

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Typical hours

The volcano has no fixed opening hours; hikes are best undertaken during daylight. It is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and possible afternoon rain.

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Photography

Photography is allowed, and the rugged volcanic landscape provides dramatic shots. Be mindful of your safety, stay on marked trails, and keep distance from hot steam vents.

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Time needed

A hike to the summit and back takes about 3 to 5 hours depending on fitness. Circling the crater and exploring lava fields can take additional time.

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Combine with

Combine a climb of Mount Matavanu with a visit to Mu Pagoa Waterfall, which plunges directly into the sea on the north coast of Savai'i. The lava fields of Saleaula are also worth a detour.

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Getting there

The trailhead is near Saleaula village, about one hour from Salelologa. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended as the roads in the area are often unpaved.

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Insider tip

Hire a local guide in Saleaula village - they know the safest routes and can tell you about the 1905-1911 eruption. Carry plenty of water and food, as there are no facilities on the mountain.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.53300, -172.36700

Facts

The eruption from 1905 to 1911 is one of the longest in Samoa's recorded history.
The crater measures several hundred meters in diameter.
Lava flowed over 15 kilometers to reach the northern coast of Savai'i.
The church at Saleaula was surrounded by lava but its walls remained standing.
The name 'Matavanu' translates roughly to 'Eye of the Valley'.
The volcano is situated at an elevation of approximately 600 meters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Matavanu Crater<1 km · NExplore →

Mount Matavanu Crater3 km · SExplore →

Mount Mafane7 km · EExplore →

Paia Dwarfs Cave7 km · SWExplore →

Mount Siga8 km · EExplore →

Samalae'ulu Uta9 km · NExplore →

Manase9 km · WExplore →

Fagamalo9 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mount Matavanu (1)

Mauga Matāvanu crater

Crater of Mount Matavanu volcano on Savaiʻi, offering a view into the caldera.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit to Vulkan Matavanu take?

A visit typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the solidified lava flows.

Are there guided hikes to the crater?

Yes, local guides offer hikes as the path can be unmarked.

Is photography allowed at Vulkan Matavanu?

Yes, photography is permitted and gives fantastic volcanic views.

Is the path to the volcano accessible?

No, the terrain is very uneven and consists mostly of sharp lava rock.

Is an entry fee required for the volcano?

A small fee is often charged for the maintenance of the private land.

Mount Matavanu: where is it located?

Mount Matavanu is located in Samoa.

Mount Matavanu: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Mount Matavanu: why is it worth visiting?

Mount Matavanu is an active volcano on the island of Savai'i, whose eruption between 1905 and 1911 permanently altered the island's landscape.

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