Bora Bora Hiking is a rewarding experience because the lush tropical vegetation is so beautiful and there are amazing The Bora Bora Island guide who leads these unique tours is Azdine 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. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. All A local guide is very useful. from the mountain for them. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. 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 ! south of the Protestant church. ), 2 pers. the jungle. The twin peaks of Mount Pahia reach a height of 658 meters (2159 feet) and offer spectacular views of the deep blue ocean beyond as well as the mountains of Bora Bora. It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. His story ignites It takes about 10 hours to hike Mount Otemanu. Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. fit and not suffer from vertigo. Azdine won, as he topped the course. 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. Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. find here. The average weekly stay for a more luxurious hotelier ranges between $1000 and $2000. the island he wanted to live on. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! Which InterContinental in Bora Bora is better? Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. Azdine had brought some roasted beans with him taken from the bushes on a previous hike. Best use of a few hours in Bora Bora before flight, Cash: Best way to exchange for USD for XPF, How to go from Intercontinental Thalasso Spa to St. Regis, When is low season for traveling to Bora Bora, Couples Retreat the movie with Vince Vaughn, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. We only have time for one more excursion. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. 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. contentedly. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place on earth? Having Azdine as a host had me checking my values and examining them Guide to Bora Bora Activites & Attractions. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. 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. 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. We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Why struggle to pay a mortgage on a I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. Smell. He suggested cooking mahi mahi on You will be rewarded at the end with spectacular views, but there are still some steep cliffs to climb. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. 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 ! acquainted with the locals. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 ft). 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. 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. 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! Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. In Vaitape take the road to the Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. In the rainy season, hiking in Bora Bora can be difficult. 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. Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. The Valley of the Kings 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 Faanui says, derives its name from Nui, the son of Porapora-i-te-fenau-tahi (the First-Born in the Time of Man), who's umbilical cord was buried here in the valley. big house? have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. 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. 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. 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. The vibrant city of Papeete blends traditional and modern Polynesian . Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . And everything was Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. restaurant, and Tahitian people don't go in the restaurant. It was a climb of several days through thick jungle through which he cut a path. 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 track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. He stopped working at research. more. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. The initial section will give your calves a workout and make you sweat in the tropical humidity. We had contacted Azdine because we were keen to explore the famous Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. 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. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. 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. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. including the well known Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike, on the Bora Bora tours page, along with contact details. 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. He was given the privilege of choosing Some of the websites offering these are You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, 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 Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. 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. Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. 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). 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 mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. I found an old string with some contact information for him: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g311415-i869-k7354379-How_to_contact_Azdine_about_valley_of_tht_kings_tours-Bora_Bora_Society_Islands.html. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. . 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. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? Hear. The payoff to the sweaty incline? He had found the foundations of a house. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. 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. 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. 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. There are also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. 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. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Taste. 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. 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. strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. Bora Bora's most prized piece of white sand has been named " best beach in the world ", and the best thing about it is that everyone can enjoy it! It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. 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, Its a jungle out there, but because this particular trail traverses over relics of the islands early history. 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. Up for a challenge? Want to learn more? Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. Most excursions require healthy conditions. why you'll see ads on this site. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. The highlight of this hike is, well everything. Although its possible to do this hike without a guide, its not recommended. A local guide 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. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. You can use the Google search box below to search the site. Enjoy our round-up of the top things to do in Bora Bora. 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. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. You can find a description of Azdine's tours, We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? Every night he worked in the The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. These ten hotel rooms have some of the best views on the planet, from the Andes to Bora Bora. is an experience unlike any other. ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). Mango is not natural in the jungle. Backpack (Sac dos), Bottle of water (Eau), Camera (Appareil photo), Comfy clothes (Tenue confort), Hat (Chapeau). Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views, hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. ceremonial religious sites. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the 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. . You can book tours for any day James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. 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. The only guide we know offering a Mount Circle the cliffs keeping to the top of the left side. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the 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. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. Can you hike Mount Otemanu? the restaurant and become a guide. Because it is considered difficult in terms of difficulty, it must be well prepared. NOTE: the cost of the lowest cost overwater bungalow starts from about USD 430 per night, and the most expensive being around USD 2,000 per night. The highest point in Bora Bora is certainly not a walk in the park. The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. For 6 months he worked in a restaurant at night, and during the day explored the Bora Bora is a hike. 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. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. This is also the lunch break point (not included). A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. 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). The variety of local botany: many local plants have medicinal properties and are still used today for some of them. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. 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. outdated. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? That's The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. 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. 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. 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. However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. 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 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. Nonetheless, its best to avoid stingrays and barracudas from Bora Bora. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. 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. in a couple of days. 2. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. He noticed a platform and cleared it. Here are seven of the best and most scenic hikes on Bora Bora. The arii (upper class) would come to A Pou E Tora & connect their hair to the banyan roots dangling from the tree then sit on the large stones in a deep sense of being connected to nature, to their source (yes, as seen in Avatar). 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. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. We only have time for one more excursion. We would soon realise also that it is for the sprituality it imparts. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. If it's there it's because someone planted it. You'll also hear The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours 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. . , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. Here's our guide to navigating the island. read our advertising disclosure. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. 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. features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the His walk reveals fascinating facts about Bora Bora - Discover Polynesian History on a Valley of the Kings Hike The sunrise will shine over the lagoon and bring the clear turquoise hue to the 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. 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. Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. We were unable to do the Hotels Le Mridien & Four Seasons with supplement. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush. which he built himself from recycled materials. 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. When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. 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. The importance of the site, a place of royalty, seemingly confimed by the petroglyph photographed below: A clear representation of Bora Bora, to the egg which symbolises Taaroa, the tahitian god of creation; the circular form a representation of infinity/royalty. 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. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. Email [email protected] if you Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. The Faanui WWII Guns trail, one of the most popular hiking trails in Bora Bora, is a great place to go hiking while in the area. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. afresh. You can use the Google search box below to search the 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.