A short walk through lush vegetation, across a small creek & a climb up large stones you will bring you to Apoo Ote Ora (the Circle of Life). 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). It takes about 10 hours to hike Mount Otemanu. How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? 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. 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. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. the jungle. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. 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. Public rates mentioned on each pensions Fact Sheet. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. 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. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. . The best part? The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. 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. It was a big city! For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very Conrad (ex Hilton) Hotel Shuttle Boat to add at extra charge, about 6/pers, direct payment at the hotel. He's an example for us all. Some are difficult to find but others are waiting to be discovered if you are willing to explore. They can only be used for one night. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. 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). with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. All rights reserved. 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. of the products on this site. The Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent hiking trails in Tahiti. The upside to being on the tour route is that this track is really obvious and its hard to get lost. It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. Oualid. at the Kaina Hut. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. 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. Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. 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. He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. referred to him as 'the guide'. Direct payment at the pension. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. The track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? What he had seen on TV wasn't real. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. 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. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. acquainted with the locals. 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. He brings lava stones back Every day he why you'll see ads on this site. (689) 67.70.49. For 6 months he worked in a restaurant at night, and during the day explored the High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. 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. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. 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. island's main village was originally located there. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. Dont feel bad if before you reach the top your body says, What on earth were you thinking? The views are amazing from even halfway up so youre still in for a treat. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. Taste. 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. 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. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us Here's our guide to navigating the island. Some of the websites offering these are The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The average price of a vacation home in Bora Bora this evening is $322 (based on Booking.com prices). find here. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the Spread over four locations, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora and they're still there today. In December 2005 he arrived in Bora Bora. 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. 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 highlight of this hike is, well everything. 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. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. His walk reveals fascinating facts about The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. 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. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. I love my job. Hiking and climbing in Bora Bora must be done during the dry season (Winter). 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. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. 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. ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. 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 island of Tahiti is arguably the most popular of the 118 islands in French Polynesia. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. 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). The temperature at sea is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. Bora Bora, French. 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. The income generated through these means helps ensure The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. We only have time for one more excursion. Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the archeological sites. Coral reefs surround it and form part of the landscape. The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. It was in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in Tahiti. Never hike the off-road tracks during or after rain. 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. Mango is not natural in the jungle. Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, 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. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. research. expensive. more. Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. Bora Bora was chosen as a strategic military supply base during WWII and much like in Vanuatu, the USA decided not to take the big stuff home when they left. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. You'll also hear 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. You're free to pick your paradise. Read our Privacy Policy. The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. You may also like:The best ways to get around Bora Bora: taxis, boats and bare feetThe best time to visit Bora Bora: budget or blowout, here's our guideA date with the ocean in Mo'orea, French Polynesia, A visit to French Polynesia will get a bit easier as the island nation relaxes some of its COVID-19 entry requirements. Here are seven of the best and most scenic hikes on Bora Bora. On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were 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. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. why you'll see ads on this site. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. 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. This is also the lunch break point (not included). Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Hear. 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. 2. 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. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. is an experience unlike any other. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. The vibrant city of Papeete blends traditional and modern Polynesian . Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. However, its best to ask around when you get there as nothing is signposted. exotic far away places. We may also earn commissions on some Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . 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. Since the hike we are looking at (Valley of Kings) is 3 hrs, I assume it doesn't go to the top. 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. Want to learn more? 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. It would be interesting to date the grinding stone & grinder: The best find for many though was the wild coffee bushes. Adventure or leisure? Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. ), 2 pers. 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. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. 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. PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . All Rights Reserved, The income generated through these means helps ensure, purchase our book full of over 100 pages of money saving tips, find out the best activities, resorts, dining and beaches in our Best of Bora Bora book. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Once you spot the sign to the ferry, the track to the cannon site is only around 30 meters (98ft) further up the road on the right. 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. 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. Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia. However, its still a hard slog just to get to the shoulders of the mountain with a few sections requiring the ability to heave yourself up via strategically placed ropes. Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Pensions on a Motu Roundtrip transfer to the main islands base to add at extra charge. 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. Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. That's Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. . Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. He had found the foundations of a house. The only guide we know offering a Mount This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Papa's intention was to motivate 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. 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. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. 1. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. 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. 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. The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete.
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