Mt Otemanu is the ultimate aim of every hiker in Bora Bora but it's not for the faint of heart TriggerPhoto / Getty Images, Hiking in Bora Bora: youve never seen the lagoon from this angle before. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty. The trail is well-marked and maintained, so although a guide isnt necessary, one is recommended for safety purposes as the path winds along a narrow ridge. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. Faanui (Valley of Nui), a place of refuge, a place where one can gather the breath of life as the ancient Tahitian expression,E Mapuhiraa aho no Faanuisays, derives its name from Nui, the son of Porapora-i-te-fenau-tahi (the First-Born in the Time of Man), whos umbilical cord was buried here in the valley. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . Never hike the off-road tracks during or after rain. Mount Pahia has breathtaking views, and hiking to the top is extremely worthwhile. Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place on earth? expensive. Take a picnic and make it a morning or afternoon out of it, using the simple bench seats on the cannons as an example. We only have time for one more excursion. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. It was a climb of several days through thick jungle through which he cut a path. We had already caught a view of the sun setting over the islands dramatic silhouette from our anchorage in Tahaa and it certainly looked beautiful. 8 Days. The average weekly stay for a more luxurious hotelier ranges between $1000 and $2000. Bora Bora Valley Of The Kings: Cultural Tours With Azdine The Guide the jungle. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet There's More To a Bora Bora Vacation Than Beaches (689) 67.70.49. At the sharp bend in the road, views of Mount Otemanu will come into sight and you'll see a track leading out onto the peninsula. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us in a couple of days. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. . views from various vantage points. Taste. Winding through the Valley of the Kings, the Ancestors Path in Bora Bora is famous for the giant banyan tree that sits atop the valley (fun fact: this very tree was the inspiration behind the Tree of Souls in the Avatar film!). There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. Valley of The Kings: most popular hike on Bora Bora Around 3 hours, easy to moderate It's said that the giant banyan tree featured on this hike was the inspiration for the "Tree of Souls" in the blockbuster Avatar movie. You will be rewarded at the end with spectacular views, but there are still some steep cliffs to climb. Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. Adventure or leisure? The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. Nonetheless, its best to avoid stingrays and barracudas from Bora Bora. The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: This is the only hike that's all-weather accessible as the road is paved and not too mountainous. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. is an experience unlike any other. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum The income generated through these means helps ensure Valley Of The Kings: Legends And Stories In The Heart Of The Island Starting from the village of Faanui, a hike of a few kilometers takes you inland to the sacred places of ancient Bora Bora. Tour guide for Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora 3 years ago Save Hi everybody, 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. Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. Some were well known mango, bananas, avocados, pamplamouse, paw-paw, passion-fruit & so on & others not so well known: The local tahitian hibiscus the base of the flower has a certain sweetness & goes well in salads: There are many mape the local tahitian walnutwith a wonderful trunk almost always found in sacred places to be found throughout the climb but few would recognise the autera, the local tahitian almond photographed here. 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. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, The Valley of the Kings - Bora Bora Island Insider 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. Every night he worked in the The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Dont feel bad if before you reach the top your body says, What on earth were you thinking? The views are amazing from even halfway up so youre still in for a treat. When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider. A, is recommended, as access to many of the trailheads can be tricky; certain areas require hikers to obtain permits beforehand, and others can only be accessed by 44. The best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is from May to October, when the weather is drier and the trails are less slippery. Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the I love my job. This is also the lunch break point (not included). You can find a description of Azdine's tours, Hiking the Valley of Kings - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor We would arrive at a stunning plateau at the foot of Mts Otemanu & Pahia, a place of rare beauty surrounded by these majestic mountains & other prominent peaks. exotic far away places. You can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. 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). Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. The temperature at sea is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. However, dont despair, it eases off a little after around 450 meters (1476ft) when you reach a plateau with nice views over to Motu Ahuna in the lagoon. Orohena volcanic crater. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? Easy Hiking Trails in Bora Bora Ancestors' Path - Valley of the Kings Winding through the Valley of the Kings, the Ancestors' Path in Bora Bora is famous for the giant banyan tree that sits atop the valley (fun fact: this very tree was the inspiration behind the Tree of Souls in the Avatar film! Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. You're free to pick your paradise. It was a big city! Hiking in the Valley of Kings Aquabike Underwater Scooter Set off on an adventure in the Bora Bora lagoon with an underwater scooter, and explore unknown depths. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. 67 McCaul St, Toronto Ontario, M5T 2W7, Canada, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Bora-Care With CPES Wood: The Key To A Longer Lasting Wood, Soufrire: The First Capital City Of St Lucia, The Pros And Cons Of Replacing Bora-Care With Timbor. of the products on this site. Up for a challenge? This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable appropriate attire including shoes (walking, water or hiking as needed), sun protection (cream, hat, and rash guard), insect repellent, sunglasses, and bring a bottle of water. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. Azdine won, as he topped the course. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. This short 4-kilometer round trip is a pleasant walk in which children will not fail to participate. 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. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. 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. Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. Are you still looking for additional information? find here. Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. Hiking in Bora Bora: you've never seen the lagoon from this angle before Dec 2, 2021 8 min read Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. south of the Protestant church. Bora-Bora | Facts, History, & Points of Interest | Britannica The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. The mountain is extremely difficult to access, so youll need some of the best hiking gear available. He's an example for us all. 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. Hiking in Bora Bora: Green mountains & WW2 American guns It is critical that you wear protective footwear on a regular basis to avoid being harmed by stonefish, urchins, or coral itself while in the ocean. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. Bora Bora hiking and climbing - Bora Bora Island Guide The island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. 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 ! These ten hotel rooms have some of the best views on the planet, from the Andes to Bora Bora. The Best Time To Hike In The Valley Of Kings | Private Islands Blog 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. The contractors moved on the sacred site of one the oldest & certainly most importantmarae on Bora Bora, sites which to this day remain unprotected by any form of government legislation. PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . Given its small size and jungle-like mountainous interior, you really dont have to hike too far to feel like youre miles away from civilization. Bora Bora hiking in the Valley of the Kings On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were ceremonial religious sites. contentedly. The highest point in Bora Bora is certainly not a walk in the park. 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. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. 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. The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. Free Things To Do In Bora Bora - Bora Bora Island Guide 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. Pahia is no walk in the park either and unlike Otemanu, you can actually reach the peak. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. 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. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. At the beginning of this very year (2014) certain locals, presumably with a commercial interest in mind, took it upon themselves to start further clearing the area with earth moving equipment & (although having sought the advice of a known expert in Tahiti) to start rebuilding the marae & decorating its surrounds to radically alter that which had been found. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. It is a magnificent & majestic setting of huge stones backed by what is the largest banyan tree known in French Polynesia probably in the pacific. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. Best Outdoor Activities for your Honeymoon in Bora Bora - The Plunge Little did he know that he would ultimately stumble upon, buried deep in the thick foliage, the signs of the remnants of ancient villages, ofmaraes(places of worship) & of the burial site of Kings. Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. See. This mountain on the romantic island has a natural history that is as much about the island as it is about the lagoon. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. He lives in a modest, immaculate home, near the Kaina Hut, We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. His walk reveals fascinating facts about There are a number of ways to see this area situated in the mountainside up behind the destinctive church at the foot of Faanui Bay. if this is "all" then the form show a list of all hotels, otherwise if it's empty it will not have a hotel selection field, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Bora Bora Adventure - Earth Gear Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. I will be on the mission & readers will be the first to know of the findings! Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. The differences between the InterContinental Hotels in Bora Bora are best be summed up this way: The InterContinental Le Moana feels like a more authentic experience, on the main island in bungalow-like rooms. Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. 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 are a few good walking trails, and as the island is small, they can be accomplished They can only be used for one night. For 6 Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. 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. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. Hiking in Polynesia, such as Tahiti, Moorea, or Bora Bora, is atransformational and unforgettable experience because of the diversity of tropical vegetation, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. He hadn't become 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. All Rights Reserved, The view which outlines the ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings, 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. You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this, The Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent. Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. Can you hike Mount Otemanu? Pregnant women/disabled guests/babies our services must be notified in advance! . You will need to have a reasonable level of fitness and know your bodys limits. been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working read our advertising disclosure. That's I don't believe he does a tour everyday, but I had the concierge at our hotel set it up for me. The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. 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. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. I don't need to go on holiday. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. Bora-Bora, volcanic island, les Sous le Vent (Leeward Islands), in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.It lies in the central South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles (265 km) northwest of Tahiti.The mountainous island, some 6 miles (10 km) long and 2.5 miles (4 km) wide, has Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin-peaked Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]) as its highest . The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. The photo below shows how to survive in the unlikelihood of your being lost in the mountains Bora Bora without water the snake vine is your answer; the taste is more than acceptable: When Azdine started undertaking this hike in only 2006 he was drawn to the cliff-face that flanks Mts Otemanu & Pahia, certain that there would be caves; caves used for centuries to bury the dead. From the top of the mountain (about halfway up), youll see a cave with views from all three sides, as well as a large cave at the shoulder. When he arrived in Papeete he cried. In the dry season all-day hiking Mount Pahia, Bora Bora tours can be arranged through Otemano Tours. The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. To properly experience Bora Bora, three days (four nights if arriving late) should be enough. Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. He stopped working at The trail starts behind a cement building on private land so if the owners are about, you will need to ask their permission to cross their land. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. The best way without doubt is to take your time & stroll up the road beside the church, to feel the vegetal growth & gifts around you (there are even American ammunition storage shelters from WWII for those that are interested. Azdine, the guide, will share information about geology, ancestral plants, medicine and sacred trees. We may also earn commissions on some Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. Tour guide for Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora - Tripadvisor early Bora Bora's culture and provides pleasurable foraging for wild tropical foods along the way. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find. Climbing Mt. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. He noticed a platform and cleared it. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor When the program The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. afresh. The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. It is best known for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking views, as well as stunning beaches and turquoise water. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the big house? 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. You cannot hike more than 1.0 mile in Bora Bora, so plan ahead of time for a difficult hike you will regret not taking. in the restaurant and no one told him it was on. archeological sites. All rights reserved. which he built himself from recycled materials. 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. Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius.