French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News Just have been looking in the forum and found a phone number for Azdine for a hike to the valley of the kings and famous Banyan tree. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Tahiti is a far more expensive destination than Fiji too. with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. They can only be used for one night. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! The island of Tahiti is arguably the most popular of the 118 islands in French Polynesia. When to hike Bora Bora is a personal preference, but generally, the best time to hike is from late November to early December when the temperatures are mild and the vegetation is in full bloom. The school held a competition as an This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to . Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours Hiking shoes (Souliers rando), Lunch pack (Pique nique), MosquitoSpray (Anti-moustique), Suncreen SPF50 (Crme solaire), Snack (Collation), Sunglasses (Lunettes soleil), Socks (Chaussettes), Scientific Expedition to the Gulf of California, Rangiroa Snorkelling to Rangiroa Fakarava, Kadavu Island Fiji Eco-Adventure Resort, Northan Islands Rakiraki - Viti Levu North, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, DoubleTree Resort By Hilton Fiji Sonaisali Island, Nukubati Private Island, Great Sea Reef, Fiji, Diveasy Initiation Dive Honeymoon Package, Experience Dinner 4-course wz Wine pairing, Whale Watching, Tahiti Iti by Tahiti Iti Diving, Moorea Captain Taina Glass Bottom Boat Tour, ARIIMOANA WALKABOUTSINLAND DISCOVERIES WALK, KITESUP COOK ISLANDS Fire on Water Night Paddle Tour, TUMUTOA TOURS UMU & WALKING DISCOVERY TOUR, Signature Experience Cooking with Culture, Joyce Aviation Fiji Ltd/Heli Tours (Fiji) Ltd, Westside Motorbike Rental Ltd (Go Dirty Tours Fiji), Shanghai to Beijing Explorer by High-Speed Train. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. the island he wanted to live on. Take a picnic and make it a morning or afternoon out of it, using the simple bench seats on the cannons as an example. In September of this year a team of experts is coming to Bora Bora equipped with the latest laser & sonar technology & will examine the tree in an endeavour to determine how many bodies remain buried in the tree. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? We would climb through lush tropical vegetation in a fascinating outing as our guide, Azdine, outlined the legends surrounding the valley, the sacredness of certain trees, & the knowledge of the ancestors for the medicinal qualities of certain plants. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. Want to learn more? When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. Trailheads are notoriously hard to find in Bora Bora due to a lack of signage but this one is not too bad as the cannon can be found on Google Maps near Tereia Point in the northwest of the main island. Bora-Bora | Facts, History, & Points of Interest | Britannica If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. Every night he worked in the Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. The Valley of The Kings hike is best taken with a guide, not just because hikes on Bora Bora are rarely signed and in the words of Randy Newman, "It's a jungle out there", but because this particular trail traverses over relics of the island's early history. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. ceremonial religious sites. Never hike the off-road tracks during or after rain. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. In the dry season all-day hiking Mount Pahia, Bora Bora tours can be arranged through Otemano Tours. Kings. A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. There are the 44 that rush madly up & down the fairly uneven, more regular but still private, access route (though many landowners in the area have banned the 44). He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. You will be rewarded at the end with spectacular views, but there are still some steep cliffs to climb. Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. Enjoy our round-up of the top things to do in Bora Bora. Mount Pahia has breathtaking views, and hiking to the top is extremely worthwhile. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. All You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Bora Bora is world-renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows, which is why it may come as a surprise that there are some excellent opportunities for hiking in Bora Bora. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. Explore four spectacular waterfalls and their glistening basins, the Mahateaho River, and lush Tahitian flora while immersing yourself in the legends associated with the valleys landmarks. Therefore if youre traveling on a budget, you will find many more affordable accommodation options in Fiji, while food also tends to be cheaper in Fiji as well. ). After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. You can find a description of Azdine's tours, There is something to note about why my overwater bungalow at the Sofitel Marara Beach Resort was significantly cheaper than Four Seasons or St Regis. Most excursions require healthy conditions. Smell. You'll also hear Trekking in Bora Bora means getting up-close views of not only the lush rainforest -filled with hibiscus blossoms, paw-paw trees, and wild vanilla-but also remnants of the island's ancient civilization. Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. Climbing Mt. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. Being surprised at just how many different shades of blue can be seen in one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world from your new viewpoint. Research into the Puta Tepuna the Book of the Ancestors (currently housed in the Bishop Museum in the USA) shows that in ancient times the arii (the most powerful branch of Tahitian society) would not be buried in the ground seen as sullying the person concerned & thereby detracting from such persons purity & sanctity, nor be cremated as fire was perceived as evil, as a tool of the devil. It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. The Maldives vs Bora Bora: Accessibility The Maldives is more readily accessible from Europe and Africa than Bora Bora is, but if you are based in the United States then Bora Bora is the better option. The easiest way is to head towards Point Fitiuu on the main circle island road where you'll soon find yourself heading up a small hill as you near it on Google maps. Bora Bora Valley Of The Kings: Cultural Tours With Azdine The Guide of the products on this site. These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. research. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. A full day excursion on Tahiti will take you through Papenoo Valley, including Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls, and Puraha Falls. The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. Are you still looking for additional information? From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. Some are difficult to find but others are waiting to be discovered if you are willing to explore. In Vaitape take the road to the Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most challenging hike we've done recently is Kauai's Kalaulau Trail to the first beach). The Best Time To Hike In The Valley Of Kings | Private Islands Blog I love my job. There are also possible ways to reach the summit of Mount Pahia, which is located at 658 meters above sea level and is not recommended due to the sheer rock face. Guide to Bora Bora Activites & Attractions. There are also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. People can and do, get lost and injured due to the difficult terrain and lack of signage. All Rights Reserved, The income generated through these means helps ensure, purchase our book full of over 100 pages of money saving tips, find out the best activities, resorts, dining and beaches in our Best of Bora Bora book. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. He suggested cooking mahi mahi on The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. Once you leave the sealed circle island road, it will take around 10 minutes of uphill walking but the views of the motus (little islands) in the lagoon will distract you from your burning calves. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. except Sunday. Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place on earth? The Main Island of Bora Bora is dirty, bad roads, poverty among its polynesian inhabitants, one can only access the 32km road that winds around the island, any side road that would bring you to the nice hill landscape is forbidden to walk or drive on, only one small beach ! Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the archeological sites. You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. This kind of activity is recommended for guests in very good physical condition. What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. at the Kaina Hut. Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. Papa's intention was to motivate With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. Where to Find Tahitian Waterfalls | Tahiti Waterfalls which he built himself from recycled materials. Around 350 meters (1148ft) past the cargo vessel quay in Farepiti, you will see a dirt road to the cannons snaking up the hill to your right. Who wouldnt want to brag about conquering it? 3 Things to See and Do While Honeymooning in Bora Bora Travelers can also get to the Valley of the Kings - which is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. - by bike, taxi or tour bus. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. imaginations and touches hearts. I know there are guided walks but I have read that if they don't get a certain amount of people on the day they cancel the walk (which apparently is quite a common occurrence) so having read that it is suppose to be such an easy walk we figure if we could find the trail head we could do the walk ourselves, but I can't seem to find any map or description as to where this particular trail starts so I am hoping there is someone here who has done this walk and can provide some information to help us locate the trail head. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. It is an amazing destination that has grown in popularity in recent years. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. To properly experience Bora Bora, three days (four nights if arriving late) should be enough. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you June is the hottest month in Bora Bora with an average temperature of 29C (84F) and the coldest is January at 17C (63F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 8 in September. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. Hikers seeking the well preserved Point Fitiuu Cannons in Anau on the eastern side of the main island will be treated to stunning views of both Mt Otemanu and Bora Boras magnificent lagoon. Taste. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Message Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! As the highest feature on Bora Bora, Mount Otemanu dominates the landscape and given prominence on both travel brochures and the feed of nearly every social media influencer that visits, its possibly one of the most recognized geological features in French Polynesia. Bora Bora hiking and climbing - Bora Bora Island Guide PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . If youre planning another trip to Bora Bora Island, you should definitely check out this trail. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. Providing constant air supply, the scooter will let you breathe easy and steer this easy-to-use underwater device that can go down 3 metres deep. Mt. Breathtaking view point: Climb up to the edge to enjoy a panoramic view over the lagoon of Bora and the neighbour islands of Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Maupiti. It has four peaks spread over 4 miles that are at least 2,500 feet in height, including Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin peaks Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]. Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. Its the question on every hiker's lips when they first see it. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the Bora Bora (or Porapora, in the traditional Polynesian spelling) must be one of the most celebrated islands in the world: a place that embodies many people's ideal of a tropical paradise. Circle the cliffs keeping to the top of the left side. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, there are plenty of opportunities for, ; you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in one of the most exquisite places on Earth. You can hike to the guns and return to your original location in about an hour. I am on holiday". The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. It was both refreshing & effective: It made one reflect on the fact that Bora Bora is not paradise on earth simply for its beautiful lagoon or for its majestical mountains but also for the abundant offerings of the land. in a couple of days. It makes for the most powerful of encounters: The banyan tree is called Tumu Ora (the Tree of Life) in Tahitian & it was to this special place that Azdine took James Cameron, a man captivated by Polynesian culture & the producer of the film Avatar. strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. Yet, to experience The Islands of Tahiti in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to spectacular waterfalls, striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. The site presented easy pickings, an opportunity for quick gain at the expense of the history, culture & the rights of generations of Polynesians (& need I add the world). He was given the privilege of choosing Such a situation is inexplicable & the authorities must move without delay to localise this priceless piece of Polynesian history & culture, probably the most important relic of its type in French Polynesia, certainly in Bora Bora & to classify the islands historical sites. This trail features ancient temples and colorful native flora, culminating at an exquisite outlook with panoramic views of the famous Bora Bora lagoon and neighboring islands. There's More To a Bora Bora Vacation Than Beaches You're free to pick your paradise. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. The income generated through these means helps ensure The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. A short walk through lush vegetation, across a small creek & a climb up large stones you will bring you to Apoo Ote Ora (the Circle of Life). The mountain is extremely difficult to access, so youll need some of the best hiking gear available. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. Used in ancient times its remarkably cleansing leaving great softness to your hands & hair: When we completed the ascent wewiped the sweat from our brows with the inner layer of the skin of a pamplamouse. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Stones must be porous to absorb the heat or they will explode. read our advertising disclosure. Now he could live the simple life of his dreams, just from hiking. restaurant, and Tahitian people don't go in the restaurant. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. Read on for the full list of the best islands in the world, according to T+L readers, who again voted Palawan into the No. When it comes to hiking, you may not consider the volcanic island, but recent research has revealed that the Pacific has some of the best trails. And everything was The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. Hiking in the Valley of Kings on Ancestors Path - Full Day (Lunch not included) A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the "Ancestors' Peak". Azdine won, as he topped the course. As we climbed we were surrounded by fruit-trees which took me back to my days on the farm as a boy, to the delights of eating fruit from the tree; fruit which grows so plentifully in these valleys & on these mountainsides. He planned to We only have time for one more excursion. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour with Far and Away Adventures Your Dream Vacation is Here Book Your Trip Walk in the Valley of Kings - Half Day You will discover through these ethnobotanical walks other treasures of Bora Bora: mountains and rich nature. We only have time for one more excursion. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to The Four Seasons Resort Bora Boras thatch-roof overwater bungalows offer easy access to South Pacifics turquoise waters as well as postcard-worthy views of Mount Otemanu. Formed hundreds of thousands of years ago when hot lava cooled and rapidly hardened, these lava tubes provide an extraordinary spelunking experience; visitors will have to hike in the darkness and swim during this adventure through the cave system. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. You can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. Get a life instead! The Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent hiking trails in Tahiti. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. Best Outdoor Activities for your Honeymoon in Bora Bora - The Plunge