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Stevenson's Tomb

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Robert Louis Stevenson's Tomb is located on the summit of Mount Vaea on the island of Upolu in Samoa. The renowned Scottish author, who spent the final years of his life in Samoa, was buried here in 1894 according to his explicit wishes. The burial site is accessible via the 'Road of Loving Hearts,' a path hand-cut through the forest by locals as a tribute to the writer. Engraved on the stone tomb is his famous poem 'Requiem,' which expresses his deep connection to the sea and the hills. Known to the Samoans as 'Tusitala' or the 'Teller of Tales,' Stevenson was deeply respected for his advocacy for indigenous rights against colonial powers. The summit location provides a sweeping view of his former home, Vailima, and the coastline of Apia. Today, the tomb is part of a protected scenic reserve and serves as a major pilgrimage site for literature lovers worldwide. It remains a poignant symbol of the intersection between Western literature and Polynesian heritage.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Vailima Congregational Christian Church · Vaoala Congregational Christian Church · Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Botanical Gardens
Nearby: Apia (4 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	27	27	27	27	27	27	28
Rain mm	258	241	165	169	128	91	75	56	92	141	213	229

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Stevenson's Tomb on Mount Vaea is a publicly accessible monument. You can reach the tomb after a hike through rainforest and enjoy the view.

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Typical hours

The trail to the tomb is open at any time during daylight hours. It is recommended to start the climb early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at the tomb and along the entire hiking trail. The panoramic view from the summit has a great opportunity for wide-angle shots.

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Time needed

Allow about 2 to 3 hours for the round trip and time at the tomb. The hike is strenuous, but the view rewards the effort.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a stop at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in Apia. The Vailima estate, his former home, is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The hiking trail starts at the base of Mount Vaea, about 5 km south of Apia. You can come by car or taxi; parking is available at the starting point.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring insect repellent. Take plenty of water, as there are no drinking water sources along the trail.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.86940, -171.75890

Facts

Robert Louis Stevenson was buried on Mount Vaea on December 4, 1894.
The path to the tomb is historically known as the 'Road of Loving Hearts.'
The tombstone features the inscription of his famous poem 'Requiem.'
He was affectionately known by the Samoan people as 'Tusitala.'
Mount Vaea stands at an elevation of approximately 472 meters.
The burial site is located within the Robert Louis Stevenson Scenic Reserve.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum<1 km · WExplore →

Alaoa Dam1 km · NExplore →

Robert Louis Stevenson Tomb2 km · SEExplore →

Mount Vaea Nature Reserve2 km · SWExplore →

Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant2 km · WExplore →

Moata'a3 km · NWExplore →

Papase'ea Sliding Rocks4 km · SExplore →

Peace Chapel Apia4 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Stevenson's Tomb (10)

Vailima Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian church in Vailima, a place for worship services.

Vaoala Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian church in Vaoala, serving the local congregation.

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Botanical Gardens🏰 castle

Museum and botanical gardens in Vailima, dedicated to writer Robert Louis Stevenson.

Robert Louis Stevenson's Museum🏛 museum

Biographical museum in Samoa about the life and work of Robert Louis Stevenson.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:00-16:00; Sa 9:00-12:00💶

Robert Louis Stevenson Residence

Former home of Robert Louis Stevenson in Vailima, now a memorial site.

Papaloloa Assembly of God

Assembly of God church in Papaloloa, hosting Pentecostal worship services.

Robert Louis Stevenson Scenic Park

Park in Vailima with viewpoints, named after writer Robert Louis Stevenson.

1927 Magiagi Hydro Scheme Building Ruins🏛 museum

Ruins of a 1927 hydroelectric plant in Magiagi, a historical industrial site.

Lelata Reserve

Nature reserve in Lelata, protecting native flora and fauna.

Western Samoa Retired Nurses Association

Monument in Apia dedicated to retired nurses of Western Samoa.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How strenuous is the climb to the tomb?

The path is steep and requires good fitness.

When is the best time to visit?

Early morning to avoid the heat of the day.

Do you need sturdy shoes?

Yes, hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Is the view worth it?

The view of Apia and the ocean is spectacular.

Is entry free?

Yes, the trail to the tomb is freely accessible.

Stevenson's Tomb: where is it located?

Stevenson's Tomb is located in Samoa.

Stevenson's Tomb: what is there to see?

Highlights include Vailima Congregational Christian Church, Vaoala Congregational Christian Church, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and Botanical Gardens.

Stevenson's Tomb: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Stevenson's Tomb: why is it worth visiting?

Robert Louis Stevenson's Tomb is located on the summit of Mount Vaea on the island of Upolu in Samoa.

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