There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you 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. Pahia). Its the question on every hiker's lips when they first see it. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. That's 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. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. 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 several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. 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. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in Tahiti. Adventure or leisure? Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. You will need to have a reasonable level of fitness and know your bodys limits. 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. Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. 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. Hiking in Tahiti - Tahiti Tourisme Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. The Valley of the Kings - Bora Bora Island Insider Bora-Bora | Facts, History, & Points of Interest | Britannica Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. Conrad (ex Hilton) Hotel Shuttle Boat to add at extra charge, about 6/pers, direct payment at the hotel. When the missionaries arrived Tahitians grew their hair long in the belief it gave them strength. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Bora Bora Hiking is a rewarding experience because the lush tropical vegetation is so beautiful and there are amazing For 6 PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. Enjoy our round-up of the top things to do in Bora Bora. big house? 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 He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. which he built himself from recycled materials. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. 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 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, "It's a jungle out there", but because this particular trail traverses over relics of the island's early history. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. 3 Things to See and Do While Honeymooning in Bora Bora Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. For bargain prices with optimal weather, book summer dates early or book dates in the shoulder months of November and April. Over time as the roots thickened the bodies would find themselves engulfed in the structure of the tree. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News Never hike the off-road tracks during or after rain. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. All 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). You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. You'll also hear 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. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. Bora Bora is a hike. mini / 8 pers. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. from the mountain for them. He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. That's A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. I love my job. 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 Four Seasons Resort Bora Boras thatch-roof overwater bungalows offer easy access to South Pacifics turquoise waters as well as postcard-worthy views of Mount Otemanu. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora | Teesnature We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. So put it at the top of your list of free things to do in 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. 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. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Your guide will explain how Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. 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. Hikers who find these cannons will be rewarded with spectacular views of Bora Boras iconic lagoon. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. We may also earn commissions on some We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). Stones must be porous to absorb the heat or they will explode. The income generated through these means helps ensure On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. Orohena volcanic crater. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. afresh. We had contacted Azdine because we were keen to explore the famous Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. See. Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. exotic far away places. ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. 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". 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. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. 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. 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. restaurant, and Tahitian people don't go in the restaurant. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to 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. It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. You can book tours for any day Read our Privacy Policy. In our midst today was Loic, a chef from the Intercontinental Thalasso Spa, eager to learn of new tastes to tantalise the palate. Azdine, the guide, will share information about geology, ancestral plants, medicine and sacred trees. 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. Since the hike we are looking at (Valley of Kings) is 3 hrs, I assume it doesn't go to the top. Seeing the lava stone in the inner island prompted him to think of using it for cooking. How much are overwater bungalows in Bora Bora? by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. Up for a challenge? Mt. . His other favorite places when he's not on the mountain! Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. 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. 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). We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Its a tradition practiced to this day to ensure the maintenance of a persons affinity with their land Bora Bora has no hospital & those expecting a baby travel to Tahiti or more usually Raiatea to give birth; most return with the umbilical cord of the new-born to bury it in the land of Bora Bora. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. 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). Aorai is the third-highest peak in Tahiti, rising 2,066 meters. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! Mata Pupu has some of the best views of any island in the world because of the ridge on which it is located. There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. ceremonial religious sites. Mango is not natural in the jungle. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. The payoff to the sweaty incline? Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that it's possible to hike on Bora Bora. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. It takes about 10 hours to hike Mount Otemanu. Hiking the Valley of Kings - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor He brings lava stones back of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to 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. Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. 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. 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. We were unable to do the The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. The only guide we know offering a Mount If you would like to support us, you can purchase our book full of over 100 pages of money saving tips or find out the best activities, resorts, dining and beaches in our Best of Bora Bora book or buy our 2018 Bora Bora calendar. 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. Tel. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. 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. The temperature at sea is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. 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. You must only try this Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. The 118 islands that make up French Polynesia each have their own culture and tourist attractions. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. The Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent hiking trails in Tahiti. Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. Hiking and climbing in Bora Bora must be done during the dry season (Winter). Hiking shoes (Souliers rando), Lunch pack (Pique nique), MosquitoSpray (Anti-moustique), Suncreen SPF50 (Crme solaire), Snack (Collation), Sunglasses (Lunettes soleil), Socks (Chaussettes), Scientific Expedition to the Gulf of California, Rangiroa Snorkelling to Rangiroa Fakarava, Kadavu Island Fiji Eco-Adventure Resort, Northan Islands Rakiraki - Viti Levu North, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, DoubleTree Resort By Hilton Fiji Sonaisali Island, Nukubati Private Island, Great Sea Reef, Fiji, Diveasy Initiation Dive Honeymoon Package, Experience Dinner 4-course wz Wine pairing, Whale Watching, Tahiti Iti by Tahiti Iti Diving, Moorea Captain Taina Glass Bottom Boat Tour, ARIIMOANA WALKABOUTSINLAND DISCOVERIES WALK, KITESUP COOK ISLANDS Fire on Water Night Paddle Tour, TUMUTOA TOURS UMU & WALKING DISCOVERY TOUR, Signature Experience Cooking with Culture, Joyce Aviation Fiji Ltd/Heli Tours (Fiji) Ltd, Westside Motorbike Rental Ltd (Go Dirty Tours Fiji), Shanghai to Beijing Explorer by High-Speed Train. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. Now he could live the simple life of his dreams, just from hiking. The probelm is that I cannot find information online from any of the tour operators that state whether or. ). When the program 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. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. Hiking the Valley of Kings - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor of the products on this site. Pregnant women/disabled guests/babies our services must be notified in advance! 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. 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). things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. 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. with artifacts 2000 years old, which he had unearthed. Papa's intention was to motivate He suggested cooking mahi mahi on The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. It explains in part also the wish of modern day Bora Borians to be buried on their land & not in cemeteries or crematoriums. 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. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the I am on holiday". outdated. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! You can use the Google search box below to search the site. Tour guide for Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora, Re: Tour guide for Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora, Get answers to your questions about Bora Bora. find here. 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. wild, inner 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. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. 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. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour It was in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. The variety of local botany: many local plants have medicinal properties and are still used today for some of them. Bora Bora, French. 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! 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. Bora Bora is a major international tourist destination, famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. 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. 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. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. What he had seen on TV wasn't real. Smell. 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. 2. The trail is well-marked and maintained, so although a guide isnt necessary, one is recommended for safety purposes as the path winds along a narrow ridge. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. Kings. 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. 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. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Here are seven of the best and most scenic hikes on Bora Bora. 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 Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. 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. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. Want to do some adventurous Bora Bora hiking through the lush island interior? 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Hiking and Mountain Climbing in Bora Bora: An Excursion - Zicasso