Wondering if I need cash for taxis in Samoa or if I can just pay with card or app like in other countries?
It’s frustrating that most taxis in Samoa are cash-only, especially if you’re used to paying with cards or apps like in bigger countries. ATMs in Apia are reliable but sometimes have withdrawal limits. If you don’t bring enough cash, you could end up stuck without a way to pay taxi drivers.
I took several taxis in Samoa last year and paid cash every time. None of the drivers accepted card or app payments. Having Tala cash pulled from the ANZ Bank ATM in Apia made transport easy. Carrying coins and smaller notes is helpful for exact fares.
If you’re visiting Samoa, plan on paying taxi fares in cash, mostly in Samoan Tala. Card payments or apps like Apple Pay aren’t common for taxis yet. I always visited the ANZ Bank ATM near the airport or downtown Apia before traveling to ensure I had enough cash. Small bills help because drivers often don’t carry change for larger notes.
In Samoa, you basically need cash for taxis as they don’t generally accept card or app payments. The local currency is the Samoan Tala (WST), and most drivers expect cash upfront or upon arrival. It’s a good idea to withdraw Tala from ATMs in Apia, such as those at ANZ Bank, before needing a taxi, since digital payment options for taxis are still rare.