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. We were unable to do the things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. That's Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and Raiatea are the most visited islands. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. This is the only hike that's all-weather accessible as the road is paved and not too mountainous. Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll 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. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. Yet, to experience The Islands of Tahiti in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to spectacular waterfalls, striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. The 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. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. The banyan tree itself & much of what he experienced that day would feature in Avatar. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. 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. . There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. Get a life instead! Mount Pahia can be climbed in about 4 hours by fit and experienced hikers. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. is an experience unlike any other. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. from the mountain for them. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. We may also earn commissions on some He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. big house? Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). We would soon realise also that it is for the sprituality it imparts. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. 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. Of course, it may have something to do with Tahiti's awe-inspiring waterfalls. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. Each guest should carefully review the tour description to evaluate its own physical limits. Here are 5 must-visit spots for unique and memorable experiences during your visit to the islands in French Polynesia. Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. 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. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. . The only guide we know offering a Mount You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? fit and not suffer from vertigo. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. His other favorite places when he's not on the mountain! in the restaurant and no one told him it was on. 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). 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. 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!). I am on holiday". Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. All rights reserved. Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. 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. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. 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. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. 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. 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 Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent hiking trails in Tahiti. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. Valley of the Kings Reviews | U.S. News Travel Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. Tours only operate during the dryer months. 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). afresh. Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. 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. 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. The income generated through these means helps ensure The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . 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. The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! I will be on the mission & readers will be the first to know of the findings! To properly experience Bora Bora, three days (four nights if arriving late) should be enough. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. 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. This mountain on the romantic island has a natural history that is as much about the island as it is about the lagoon. 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! Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora - BikeHike 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. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while hiking in Tahiti, a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to Why struggle to pay a mortgage on a You can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. The trailhead is near a tower just north of Povaie Bay, which is also home to an art gallery. Free Things To Do In Bora Bora - Bora Bora Island Guide Mount Pahia has breathtaking views, and hiking to the top is extremely worthwhile. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. 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". Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. the jungle. Are you still looking for additional information? Never hike the off-road tracks during or after rain. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. You'll also hear With two-thirds of the nation projected to being submerged by the end of the century, nows the time to splurge on a romantic romp. Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. Conrad (ex Hilton) Hotel Shuttle Boat to add at extra charge, about 6/pers, direct payment at the hotel. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you 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. Otemanu is a popular challenge for experienced climbers. 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. That's 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. He stopped working at 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. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? mini / 8 pers. I know there are guided walks but I have read that if they don't get a certain amount of people on the day they cancel the walk (which apparently is quite a common occurrence) so having read that it is suppose to be such an easy walk we figure if we could find the trail head we could do the walk ourselves, but I can't seem to find any map or description as to where this particular trail starts so I am hoping there is someone here who has done this walk and can provide some information to help us locate the trail head. About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. 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. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 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. Which InterContinental in Bora Bora is better? Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Here are seven of the best and most scenic hikes on Bora Bora. We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? 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. The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. See. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! Oualid. features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. Azdine had brought some roasted beans with him taken from the bushes on a previous hike. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. 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. 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. He's an example for us all. Having Azdine as a host had me checking my values and examining them 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. 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). Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. Tahiti is a far more expensive destination than Fiji too. 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. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. 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 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. want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? Orohena volcanic crater. 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. When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider. Best Outdoor Activities for your Honeymoon in Bora Bora - The Plunge Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. outdated. 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. It is only possible to do these tours during dry weather. Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. imaginations and touches hearts. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. 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. 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. Do not attempt to hike Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia if you cant deal with heights or suffer from vertigo. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. 8 Days. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. A local guide is very useful. 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. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working I noticed that locals passing by respectfully However, if you want overwater bungalows and adventure on the island, Bora Bora is a great choice. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. How much are overwater bungalows in Bora Bora? Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. For 6 We only have time for one more excursion. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. For 6 months he worked in a restaurant at night, and during the day explored the Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. Since the hike we are looking at (Valley of Kings) is 3 hrs, I assume it doesn't go to the top. Bora-Bora | Facts, History, & Points of Interest | Britannica 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. Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. But with his dynamic The breathtaking views from multiple vantage points, as well as the lush tropical vegetation, are just a few of the highlights of Bora Bora Hiking. 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. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. at the Kaina Hut. He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. Mount Otemanu is the most difficult and highest peak on the island, rising 727 meters above sea level. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. 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. It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. 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. 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 island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination. We only have time for one more excursion. Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. In December 2005 he arrived in Bora Bora. He lives in a modest, immaculate home, near the Kaina Hut, is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. lava stone to the Kaina Hut. 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. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in . The road is paved and not mountainous, making it the only hike that can be done all year round. why you'll see ads on this site. Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. 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. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. People can and do, get lost and injured due to the difficult terrain and lack of signage. The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in Tahiti. ), 2 pers. The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. The Ultimate Guide on How to Visit French Polynesia All 3 Things to See and Do While Honeymooning in Bora Bora Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. the island he wanted to live on. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. 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 ! The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. Azdine won, as he topped the course. Bora Bora Adventure - Earth Gear 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. 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. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. 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. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. 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. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. Orohena volcanic crater. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. 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. Up for a challenge? 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. There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. Your guide will explain how Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. 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. Want to do some adventurous Bora Bora hiking through the lush island interior? While hiking to the summit is more difficult than climbing, walkers can also access the Anau cave, which is located at the base of the mountain. Public rates mentioned on each pensions Fact Sheet.