Plan your trip to Samoa efficiently
Samoa’s warm culture, pristine beaches and relaxed island lifestyle make it a favourite for Australian travelers. To enjoy a smooth trip, planning ahead with the local currency — the Samoan Tala (WST) — is essential.
While some hotels and resorts accept cards, cash remains the preferred method for local markets, village shops, taxis, ferries, and food stalls. Internet connectivity can be limited in some areas, so relying solely on cards may be risky.
Secure the best AUD to Samoan Tala rate online before your trip. With Prosegur Change, you can easily reserve your WST with 0% commission and collect it at your nearest branch.
Practical tips for planning your budget
Samoa is an affordable destination, with daily expenses lower than in many Pacific islands. Here’s a guide to typical costs:
- Meals: 10–25 WST at local eateries; 25–45 WST in restaurants.
- Transport: 1–5 WST for local buses; 20–60 WST for taxis depending on distance.
- Attractions: 5–20 WST for beaches, waterfalls or village access fees.
- Accommodation: 40–120 WST for fales (traditional huts); 120–350 WST for hotels and resorts.
Tip: ATMs are available in Apia but limited in rural areas. Bring enough Samoan Tala for day trips, markets and smaller islands such as Savai'i.
Some suggestions for your stay
Carrying Samoan Tala will make your visits to villages, local shops and tours much easier.
Samoa blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Here are must-visit spots:
- Upolu: Lalomanu Beach, To Sua Ocean Trench, Palolo Deep Marine Reserve.
- Savai’i: Alofaaga Blowholes, Afu Aau Waterfall, Saleaula Lava Fields.
- Cultural experiences: Sunday To'onai feasts, traditional umu cooking, village stays.
- Adventure: Snorkelling, surfing, hiking Mount Matavanu, or exploring marine reserves.
To help you compare rates and understand each currency better, explore our full guide to Oceania’s currencies here.
Some facts about the Samoan Tala
The Samoan Tala (WST) has been Samoa’s official currency since 1967, replacing the pound. It’s issued by the Central Bank of Samoa and is known for its colorful banknotes featuring Samoan culture, landscapes and historical figures.
Denominations of the Samoan Tala
Cash is widely used across the islands, and although ATMs exist in Apia, they are scarce in remote areas, making pre-trip currency exchange highly recommended.
- Banknotes: 5 WST, 10 WST, 20 WST, 50 WST, 100 WST
- Coins: 10 sene, 20 sene, 50 sene, 1 Tala, 2 Tala
Notes often depict local flora, fauna and cultural icons, representing Samoa’s heritage and identity.
FAQs about Samoan Tala (WST)
Below are common questions travelers ask before exchanging AUD to Samoan Tala.
It’s usually better to buy WST in Australia before you travel. Exchange options in Samoa are limited outside Apia, and airport or hotel rates can be less competitive. Ordering online with Prosegur Change helps you secure a better rate in advance.
Yes. Many local businesses add a 3–5% surcharge when you pay by card. Bringing Samoan Tala helps you avoid additional fees and often gets you better value in markets and small shops.
Yes. The ferry between Upolu and Savai’i, as well as many local transport services, only accept Samoan Tala. Having WST ready will help you avoid delays or last-minute ATM searches.
Bargaining is gentle and limited in Samoa. While supermarkets and restaurants have fixed prices, you may politely negotiate at handicraft markets or with tour guides. Having cash in WST makes small negotiations easier and avoids rounding up when paying with larger notes.
Travelling soon?
Here's how to easily reserve your currencies online
1. Choose your currency
Determine the amount of travel money you will need to enjoy your trip.
2. Choose a date & a pick-up location
Collect your order from one of our exchange bureaus at major airports and city centre.
3. Collect & pay
Pay upon pickup and enjoy
your trip.
Enjoy the best exchange rate for AUD to WST with Prosegur Change
Looking to convert Australian dollars to Samoan Tala at competitive rates? Prosegur Change offers:
- Great online AUD → WST exchange rates
- 0% commission when ordering online
- Convenient collection at branches across Australia, including airports and major shopping centers
- Secure service backed by 30+ years of expertise
Reserve online, lock in your rate, and collect your WST before your flight.