We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll (689) 67.70.49. 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. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. 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. 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. contentedly. This kind of activity is recommended for guests in very good physical condition. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. 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. Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. 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. When to hike Bora Bora is a personal preference, but generally, the best time to hike is from late November to early December when the temperatures are mild and the vegetation is in full bloom. That's Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. Therefore if youre traveling on a budget, you will find many more affordable accommodation options in Fiji, while food also tends to be cheaper in Fiji as well. Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. Question: What Country Does Bora Bora Belong To, Do They Have Bicycles At Four Seasons In Bora Bora, Question: Where Is The Valley Of The Kings On A Map, Quick Answer: Where Can You Hike The Kings Trail, Question: How Steep Is The Waipio Valley Hike, Question: Where To Hike In The Foothills Of Kings Canyon, Quick Answer: Where To Hike Hudson Valley, Quick Answer: How Hard Is The Pololu Valley Lookout Hike. Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. That's including the well known Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike, on the Bora Bora tours page, along with contact details. After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush. from the mountain for them. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. 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. 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. Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. You can find a description of Azdine's tours, There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. 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. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. 1. 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. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! Your guide will explain how The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. 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. 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. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 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!). With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! lava stone to the Kaina Hut. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. archeological sites. 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 hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. This is also the lunch break point (not included). The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. 67 McCaul St, Toronto Ontario, M5T 2W7, Canada, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Bora-Care With CPES Wood: The Key To A Longer Lasting Wood, Soufrire: The First Capital City Of St Lucia, The Pros And Cons Of Replacing Bora-Care With Timbor. Bora Bora, located in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning . However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. 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). However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. However, its best to ask around when you get there as nothing is signposted. Conrad (ex Hilton) Hotel Shuttle Boat to add at extra charge, about 6/pers, direct payment at the hotel. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. 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. 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. There are also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. Mount Pahia can be climbed in about 4 hours by fit and experienced hikers. The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. All The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: 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. 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. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner You can use the Google search box below to search the site. 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. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working read our advertising disclosure. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. It is only possible to do these tours during dry weather. When he arrived in Papeete he cried. 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. At the beginning of this very year (2014) certain locals, presumably with a commercial interest in mind, took it upon themselves to start further clearing the area with earth moving equipment & (although having sought the advice of a known expert in Tahiti) to start rebuilding the marae & decorating its surrounds to radically alter that which had been found. When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. It is an amazing destination that has grown in popularity in recent years. the island he wanted to live on. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Hike through history. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. 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 A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were fit and not suffer from vertigo. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. I love my job. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place on earth? The trail is well marked and easy to follow. If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours What he had seen on TV wasn't real. 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. Seeing the lava stone in the inner island prompted him to think of using it for cooking. Perched on the mountainside above Point Pahua on the western point of the island, the views from the cannons are superb. All rights reserved. . Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. outdated. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his research. Every night he worked in the Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. 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. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! It is best known for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking views, as well as stunning beaches and turquoise water. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . It has four peaks spread over 4 miles that are at least 2,500 feet in height, including Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin peaks Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. The best times to go to Bora Bora are November and April. 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 ! Oh the romance! 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. Are you still looking for additional information? 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. 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". Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the We may also earn commissions on some The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. Mango is not natural in the jungle. 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. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to 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. referred to him as 'the guide'. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. Bora Bora, French. Up for a challenge? find here. The track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Although its possible to do this hike without a guide, its not recommended. 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. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. His other favorite places when he's not on the mountain! For those interested in seeing waterfalls while. Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. The initial section will give your calves a workout and make you sweat in the tropical humidity. The best hikes lead to stunning vistas, hidden coves, and unforgettable histories; your customizable Bora Bora vacation immerses you in the adventures of island life guiding you to unconquered summits, tropical rainforest, fertile valleys, and unparalleled coastlines. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. 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. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. So put it at the top of your list of free things to do in Bora Bora. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. 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). See the Bora Bora weather page to find out more about the seasons in Bora Bora. Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . . And everything was There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. 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. . The best part? The variety of local botany: many local plants have medicinal properties and are still used today for some of them. research. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. mini / 8 pers. I am on holiday". There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. His walk reveals fascinating facts about Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. Are you still looking for additional information? Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you 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. in the restaurant and no one told him it was on. views from various vantage points. 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. His story ignites The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. 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. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, there are plenty of opportunities for, ; you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in one of the most exquisite places on Earth. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. Mt. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. 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. Orohena volcanic crater. This is the only hike that's all-weather accessible as the road is paved and not too mountainous. He stopped working at more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. 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. 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. 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. 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. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. except Sunday. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Want to learn more? Kings on one of his bedroom windows. Spread over four locations, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora and they're still there today. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. Mount Otemanu is one of two peaks on Bora Bora (along with Mt. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. Or is there also another guide? Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you We were unable to do the 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. Research into the Puta Tepuna the Book of the Ancestors (currently housed in the Bishop Museum in the USA) shows that in ancient times the arii (the most powerful branch of Tahitian society) would not be buried in the ground seen as sullying the person concerned & thereby detracting from such persons purity & sanctity, nor be cremated as fire was perceived as evil, as a tool of the devil. 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. 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. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. is an experience unlike any other. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. This trail features ancient temples and colorful native flora, culminating at an exquisite outlook with panoramic views of the famous Bora Bora lagoon and neighboring islands. The income generated through these means helps ensure Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. You can hike to the guns and return to your original location in about an hour.