In search of Samoa’s hidden waterfalls, Local tourism writer, Liz Ah-Hi hitches a ride in the back of a ute and finds a wonderland of water and fresh food
In pursuit of some hidden waterfalls in Samoa (of which there are many) I was drawn to an isolated inland plantation known as Solaua which is about 3 kilometres inland from Saoluafata on the eastern side of Upolu.
My excursion started off in the most authentic fashion possible; on the back of a truck (which is the preferred way to commute in rural Samoa) armed with insect repellent, sunscreen, swimming gear and a sufficient supply of Taulas in the cooler to stay refreshed along the bumpy ride.
Exchanging the air conditioned bus for a tour in the ute is one good way to get closer to nature. The 360-degree views of lush plantations and forest plus the sun and wind in your hair, all combined to make the 6 km journey from Lufilufi village as exhilarating as the anticipated destination.
The road to Solaua is filled with sights of some very rare and magnificent banyan trees, remnants of the massive rubber plantation which were planted by the Germans in the early 1900s. In the colonial era of German occupation, this area was the location for the biggest rubber plantation in the Pacific which at the time covered about 5,600 acres which today locals call Solaua.
It has since developed into what I would consider its natural and intended purpose which is a wonderful place for adventure and retreat. Visitors will have a chance to get off the well beaten track in search of solitude or even adventure with a number of hidden cascades just waiting to be discovered along the trail of the cleanest spring water streams and rivers in Samoa.
Arriving at Solaua Inland Escape feels a bit like you’ve been transported to some smoky mountain lake cabin but in place of a lake is a waterfall oasis in the tropical islands. There is something deeply romantic and enchanting about a rustic shoe box sized cabin hidden away on the mountains; cabins that are only discovered by the whisperings of travellers who have stumbled across the magic of Solaua.
Solaua Inland Escape is surrounded by panoramic views of towering mountains, lush foliage and well-worn forest paths which provides for some great hiking adventures and bird watching for outdoor pursuits.
However it is the mesmerizing sounds of falling water that draws me down to the private waterfall sanctuary located on the property where I take a refreshing dip and relax under the strong water cascades for a shoulder massage from Mother Nature herself.
From river to table our host and tour guide, Konrad von Reiche has prepared a simple yet delicious meal of freshly harvested river shrimps and taro swimming in hot coconut cream and garlic sauce.
Before you find yourself in a food coma, looking for the nearest hammock to take a nap – I suggest you take a leisurely stroll around the grounds to work off the delicious meal and take time to admire the lush foliage, birds and perhaps the largest variety of Teuila flowers ( the size of chandeliers) I have ever seen in the country.
If you’re in the mood for chasing more waterfalls, well you’re in luck because located within the vicinity is the magnificent Sauniatu Waterfall located in the LDS Church compound just a mere kilometre away and like most hidden gems in Samoa – chances are you will most likely have the place all to yourselves to enjoy!
For accommodation or day trips enquiries, contact Konrad von Reiche +685 7236982
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