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. There are also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. 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. 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. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! During WWII, a strategic military supply base was established at Bora Bora. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor South Pacific French Polynesia Society Islands Bora Bora Bora Bora Travel Forum Valley of the Kings trailhead Watch this Topic Browse forums All Society Islands forums Bora Bora forum IOGWFH Sydney, Australia Level Contributor 127 posts 570 reviews 296 helpful votes It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. Conrad (ex Hilton) Hotel Shuttle Boat to add at extra charge, about 6/pers, direct payment at the hotel. After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. But with his dynamic 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. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. Up for a challenge? You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this hiking trail in Tahiti. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Although its possible to do this hike without a guide, its not recommended. Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. While it is not possible to reach the summit by foot due to safety reasons, visitors can still explore its various hiking trails, including the path to the Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. 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". Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. I have read on non-tour guide websites that the hike to the top of Mt Pahia takes 5-6 hrs, and includes a "rope climb' at the end where you basically pull yourself up a cliff. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. island's main village was originally located there. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. You can find a description of Azdine's tours, Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Climbing Mt. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. 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. Said to be the final resting place for royalty in times long gone, the views from this cave are nothing short of breathtaking. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to eat the island's bounty straight from the tree and take in those iconic views of the turquoise and blue lagoon. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. The highest point in Bora Bora is certainly not a walk in the park. There are a few that are difficult to locate, but others are easy to come by. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. The income generated through these means helps ensure All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. The concierge at your hotel will know all about the hikes (every local has done them as a kid), and the shortest one is Valley of the Kings, which is about 3 hours and great for all difficulty levels. It would take about 9-10 hours to hike around the island and return to the summit of Mount Pahia via a quick detour. The variety of local botany: many local plants have medicinal properties and are still used today for some of them. Hiking in Bora Bora: Green mountains & WW2 American guns The payoff to the sweaty incline? Swim, sun bake and snorkel in this warm turquoise water. Located in the southernmost part of Tahiti Iti, the Te Pari trail is accessible only by boat and offers an expedition into the uninhabited natural area of Tahiti. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in Do Not Forget :Backpack (Sac dos), Bottle of water (Eau), Camera (Appareil photo), Comfy clothes (Tenue confort), Hat (Chapeau),Hiking shoes (Souliers rando), Lunch pack (Pique nique), MosquitoSpray (Anti-moustique), Suncreen SPF50 (Crme solaire), Snack (Collation), Sunglasses (Lunettes soleil), Socks (Chaussettes). A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. This is also the lunch break point (not included). Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. 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. Pregnant women/disabled guests/babies our services must be notified in advance! Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! If youre planning another trip to Bora Bora Island, you should definitely check out this trail. exotic far away places. Perched on the mountainside above Point Pahua on the western point of the island, the views from the cannons are superb. Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Because it is considered difficult in terms of difficulty, it must be well prepared. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. His story ignites How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. These ten hotel rooms have some of the best views on the planet, from the Andes to Bora Bora. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. Get a life instead! It was in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. When he arrived in Papeete he cried. About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. 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 are several points of interest along this trail, including the Fachoda Bridge and Fachoda Fort, the Fautaua Waterfall, the Governors Gardens, Teovere Pass, and stunning views of the Diadem Mountain. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. contentedly. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum The Valley of the Kings - Bora Bora Island Insider The tasting over we would wash our hands & faces in the shampoo flower as it is known to Tahitians, the shampoo squeased gently from the flower of the ginger plant. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find. For those who visit Point Fitiuu Cannons on the eastern side of the main island, views of Mt Otemanu and the magnificent Bora Bora lagoon will be breathtaking. The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. We may also earn commissions on some 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. 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. the jungle. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. All rights reserved. However, if you want overwater bungalows and adventure on the island, Bora Bora is a great choice. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Smell. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News It is only possible to do these tours during dry weather. Named for the three distinct pine trees found along the trail, Three Pines Pass offers impressive views of Mount Rotui, Opunohu Bay, and Cooks Bay, as well as the famous pineapple fields of Moorea. Discover island treasures hidden in the valley on your way to the top where you will enjoy a breathtaking view on Bora Bora turquoise lagoon and neighbour islands of Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Maupiti. The turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora are also perfect for kayaking; you can even take time to observe the colorful marine life below. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. Most excursions require healthy conditions. A local guide is very useful. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. As the place of royalty there is an area of carved stone believed to have been used by woman to give birth: Most importantly of all the area was used to bury the Kings of Bora Bora. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. All The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. The income generated through these means helps ensure This short 4-kilometer round trip is a pleasant walk in which children will not fail to participate. 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. 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. 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. imaginations and touches hearts. He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. 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. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. Hotels are few and fancy, ranging from $400$2,000 per night for the lowest standard rates. 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. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. While snacking, you'll notice that one of the cannons faces The Four Seasons Resort and the other faces Mt Otemanu. The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! 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. 1. hours Azdine displayed the remnants of ancient life, Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. 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. Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to . why you'll see ads on this site. While Im not sure if this is fact or fiction, there's no doubt the tree has great cultural significance, given that it reportedly served as the final resting place for the ancient kings of Bora Bora. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. 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. Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. We only have time for one more excursion. Bora Bora, French. Azdine won, as he topped the course. Three Coconuts Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers). Email polynesiaislandtours@mail.pf if you With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. 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. Here are seven of the best and most scenic hikes on Bora Bora. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. Azdine had brought some roasted beans with him taken from the bushes on a previous hike. He had found the foundations of a house. We were unable to do the ), 2 pers. 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. Listen out for the island's 4x4 and quad bike tours, which can be heard rumbling up the narrow track behind you if you happen to be hiking it. 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. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. The history of the island of Bora Bora: learn how the island of Bora Bora was born, the characteristics of the population and the legends that feed its history. 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. The track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. 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. 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. 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. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Tel. 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. His walk reveals fascinating facts about Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. Every day he acquainted with the locals. Want to learn more? In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. 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. 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. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. 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. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognized feature on Bora Bora Island can only be climbed up to it's 'shoulders'. Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to find Paradise. It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. Mt. 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. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. Hiking tours may involve strenuous and lengthy hike over uneven terrain, uphill and downhill trails, and under limited shade. 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. We may also earn commissions on some Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. And everything was Orohena volcanic crater. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty. It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. Mango is not natural in the jungle. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor Heading clockwise on the circle island road, make your way to the Pearl Beach Resort ferry departure (lagoon side of the road) a few kilometers past Faanui. Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. You'll also hear 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 trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. 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. Best of French Polynesia Vacation: An Escape to Bora Bora and Tahaa A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. 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). of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. 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. 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. Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. May 9, 2018 - Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings to discover cultural sites revealing information about the island's early history. find here. He lives in a modest, immaculate home, near the Kaina Hut, During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. Are you still looking for additional information? 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. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. Apparently this segment of the destruction of this countrys cultural heritage commenced with earth moving contractors seeking to provide stone (rocks) for the fortification of one of the major resorts on the motu. For 6 Enjoy our round-up of the top things to do in Bora Bora. He's an example for us all. Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. . I don't need to go on holiday. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Why struggle to pay a mortgage on a 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 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 ! ). Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. It was here in 2006 that Azdine (literally) uncovered the remains of amarae, not just anymaraeas it featured an almost 1.50 metre anthropomorph anthropomorphs predate the Moai of Easter Island & the traditional Tikis of French Polynesia & Hawaii by tens of thousands of years. 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. Seeing the lava stone in the inner island prompted him to think of using it for cooking. Royalty is said to have been buried in the Cave of Mount Otemanu for many years. Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination.