Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognized feature on Bora Bora Island can only be climbed up to it's 'shoulders'. His story ignites Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Add these best free (and nearly free!) this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the You can hike to the guns and return to your original location in about an hour. Are you still looking for additional information? 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. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. It gave sense to the names Apoo Ote Ora& Tumu Ora life was a circle where one travelled from ones place of birth & back again at ones death. Its the question on every hiker's lips when they first see it. find Paradise. Oh the romance! To properly experience Bora Bora, three days (four nights if arriving late) should be enough. This is how it looked in 2008/2009 : Here is how it looked when we arrived yesterday 23rd April, 2014: It is a story of reckless ignorance, of destruction & of greed. Because Azdine was the first to discover this trail, he is considered one of the best guides 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. You must only try this 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. . 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. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. of the products on this site. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking in Tahiti; you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in one of the most exquisite places on Earth. 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 didn't know it at the time, but Mum and I had sat at the Pearl Beach Resort mesmerized by the view which outlines the The vibrant city of Papeete blends traditional and modern Polynesian . Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. You'll also hear He planned to You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this hiking trail in Tahiti. Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. the jungle. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? Mount Otemanu is one of two peaks on Bora Bora (along with Mt. 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. Pensions on a Motu Roundtrip transfer to the main islands base to add at extra charge. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. 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. referred to him as 'the guide'. 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. Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. Kings. 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. 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. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. You can use the Google search box below to search the site. In the rainy season, hiking in Bora Bora can be difficult. When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. Other important stones representing the seats of the King & of the Tehua, & those representing the seven ariinow form part of a certain hotels retaining wall or remain lost forever in the stones that remain on-sight. 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. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. The only guide we know offering a Mount 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! Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. 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. He noticed a platform and cleared it. 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. Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. The best part? Guide to Bora Bora Activites & Attractions. ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. 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. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. Mata Pupu has some of the best views of any island in the world because of the ridge on which it is located. Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. 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. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. Staggeringly, the anthropomorph has been removed (I suspect for safe-keeping rather than stolen). We were unable to do the It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. 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. There are a few good walking trails, and as the island is small, they can be accomplished Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete. It was in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. Smell. 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. People can and do, get lost and injured due to the difficult terrain and lack of signage. Or is there also another guide? The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. 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. It makes ones stomach churn to be told that the contractors knew what they were doing & even took some of the more important stones, like the stone for the mango drip, to decorate their homes. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia. Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. 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. After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. 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. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. 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. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. 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. hours Azdine displayed the remnants of ancient life, with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. 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. We would soon realise also that it is for the sprituality it imparts. This short 4-kilometer round trip is a pleasant walk in which children will not fail to participate. 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! The elevation is determined by the terrain. 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. A full day excursion on Tahiti will take you through Papenoo Valley, including Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls, and Puraha Falls. afresh. The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. We may also earn commissions on some Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? 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. It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. Coral reefs surround it and form part of the landscape. Mount Otemanu is located in Bora Bora and is the highest point. French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . 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. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. 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 Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. 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. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into All 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. centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora, The best ways to get around Bora Bora: taxis, boats and bare feet, The best time to visit Bora Bora: budget or blowout, here's our guide, A date with the ocean in Mo'orea, French Polynesia, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. read our advertising disclosure. Because it is considered difficult in terms of difficulty, it must be well prepared. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. 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 ! His walk reveals fascinating facts about Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you 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 restaurant and become a guide. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. It would take about 9-10 hours to hike around the island and return to the summit of Mount Pahia via a quick detour. 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. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. As Azdine said to us: The difference between a foreigner & a local tahitian is that the foreigner has a watch, but the tahitian has the time! PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . One cannon looks out towards the main town of Vaitape and Teavanui Pass and the other looks out over the expanse of the lagoon towards Pearl Beach Resort. Who wouldnt want to brag about conquering it? Spread over four locations, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora and they're still there today. 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's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. Direct payment at the pension. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. ceremonial religious sites. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Royalty is said to have been buried in the Cave of Mount Otemanu for many years. For 6 The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. All rights reserved. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. We only have time for one more excursion. He hadn't become Hotels Le Mridien & Four Seasons with supplement. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. exotic far away places. 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. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. 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. Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. which he built himself from recycled materials. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. Circle the cliffs keeping to the top of the left side. views from various vantage points. 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. And everything was These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. 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. ). Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. Azdine won, as he topped the course. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. So put it at the top of your list of free things to do in Bora Bora. Here's our guide to navigating the island. 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. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. 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. Why struggle to pay a mortgage on a Which InterContinental in Bora Bora is better? The best times to go to Bora Bora are November and April. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his 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). in the restaurant and no one told him it was on. Public rates mentioned on each pensions Fact Sheet. The 118 islands that make up French Polynesia each have their own culture and tourist attractions. 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. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. early Bora Bora's culture and provides pleasurable foraging for wild tropical foods along the way. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . acquainted with the locals. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Get a life instead! 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. 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. why you'll see ads on this site. Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his research. 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). Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. A local guide is very useful. 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. 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. 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. Read our Privacy Policy. The breath of life remains with you as you move through this beautiful land discovering the culture & history of another time whilst gaining an insight into the lives of those who once inhabited such places. Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. 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. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? 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. 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. For those who have a few days up their sleeve and are comfortable with the concept of multi-day hiking, this 32-km loop(19.8mi) could very well be the stuff that dreams are made of. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. I will be on the mission & readers will be the first to know of the findings! The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. Aorai is the third-highest peak in Tahiti, rising 2,066 meters. Answer 1 of 6: Hi, My husband and I are relatively fit in our mid-twenties and are thinking of doing a guided hike that goes through The Valley of Kings. Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. south of the Protestant church. island's main village was originally located there. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. 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. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions.
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