A Secluded National Park Requires A Passport For Entry

A secluded U.S. national park requires all parkgoers to show a valid passport or birth certificate to enter.

The National Park of American Samoa is a unique sanctuary situated in a remote location and spread across three islands: Tutuila, Ofu, and Ta‘ū. The national park is surrounded by the South Pacific Ocean and located 2,600 miles Southwest of Hawaii. 

Visitors to the park arrive at the Pago Pago International Airport, according to Fox Weather. The limited transportation options to the islands mean that visitors must prove their United States citizenship or nationality by showing their valid passport or certified birth certificate for entry, according to the Department of the Interior. The park is open year-round, and there are no fees to enter.

This national park’s unique climate involves regular rainstorms during the wet season from October to May. The dry season, from June to September, is the ideal time for outdoor activities, such as hiking or enjoying the beaches. Visitors should also be prepared for humidity and warm temperatures year-round, according to the National Park Service (NPS) website.

The islands are home to diverse wildlife and span over 4,000 acres of underwater landscape. There are 800 types of fish, 200 types of coral, humpback whales, sea turtles, and other native creatures, including flying foxes, according to the NPS.

Across the three islands, the park offers scenic mountain trails, beautiful coastal views, Samoan villages, rainforest hikes, white sand beaches, and snorkeling through coral reefs.

The NPS also provides a list of packing and safety tips for visitors while at the park. “Visiting the National Park of American Samoa is a unique and unforgettable experience,” it writes. “By following these tips, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable visit while helping to preserve the natural and cultural wonders of the park for future generations.”