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. Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . Oualid. The upside to being on the tour route is that this track is really obvious and its hard to get lost. 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. The temperature at sea is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. 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. It gave sense to the names Apoo Ote Ora& Tumu Ora life was a circle where one travelled from ones place of birth & back again at ones death. 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. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. outdated. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. 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. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. except Sunday. the jungle. The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Backpack (Sac dos), Bottle of water (Eau), Camera (Appareil photo), Comfy clothes (Tenue confort), Hat (Chapeau). This scenic coastal hike ventures between the ocean and the Te Pari Cliffs with many points of interest along the way, including white sandy beaches, coral flats, the famous Vaipoiri Cave, lava tubes, the Queens Bathing Pool, and much more. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. 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. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. ceremonial religious sites. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. 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. 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. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! There are a few that are difficult to locate, but others are easy to come by. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? Orohena volcanic crater. This kind of activity is recommended for guests in very good physical condition. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Read our Privacy Policy. It takes about 10 hours to hike Mount Otemanu. 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. They can only be used for one night. Bora Bora is a hike. What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to It is critical that you wear protective footwear on a regular basis to avoid being harmed by stonefish, urchins, or coral itself while in the ocean. wild, inner island. For 6 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. Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. 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 can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. . The Maldives vs Bora Bora: Accessibility The Maldives is more readily accessible from Europe and Africa than Bora Bora is, but if you are based in the United States then Bora Bora is the better option. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. Azdine won, as he topped the course. That's fit and not suffer from vertigo. Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. ). 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. Oh the romance! With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. 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. A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. So put it at the top of your list of free things to do in Bora Bora. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: 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. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. 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. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. Some of the websites offering these are Are you still looking for additional information? 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". referred to him as 'the guide'. 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. His walk reveals fascinating facts about Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. 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. The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. 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. The islands location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean leaves it vulnerable to tidal waves whenever theres an earthquake in places as far away as Samoa or even Chile. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. It was a big city! 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. Perched on the mountainside above Point Pahua on the western point of the island, the views from the cannons are superb. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. 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. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. 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. Pahia). 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. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. Here's our guide to navigating the island. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while. The track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. exotic far away places. Used in ancient times its remarkably cleansing leaving great softness to your hands & hair: When we completed the ascent wewiped the sweat from our brows with the inner layer of the skin of a pamplamouse. Hotels Le Mridien & Four Seasons with supplement. The island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. We use cookies to help us improve, promote, and protect our services. You can find a description of Azdine's tours, When the missionaries arrived Tahitians grew their hair long in the belief it gave them strength. is an experience unlike any other. 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. 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. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. Hike through history. Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. You'll also hear Although its possible to do this hike without a guide, its not recommended. Tahiti is a far more expensive destination than Fiji too. Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? We had contacted Azdine because we were keen to explore the famous Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. Climbing Mt. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. 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. When Azdine was a young student in France, his father put a poster of 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. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into find here. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. early Bora Bora's culture and provides pleasurable foraging for wild tropical foods along the way. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. 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). Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. 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. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. ), 2 pers. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. from the mountain for them. Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. 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). It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. Hear. Coral reefs surround it and form part of the landscape. 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. 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! There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. What he had seen on TV wasn't real. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. We were unable to do the His story ignites Three Coconuts Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers). There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. 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 Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. All 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. Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. find here. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. 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. The trailhead is near a tower just north of Povaie Bay, which is also home to an art gallery. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. A local guide is recommended, as access to many of the trailheads can be tricky; certain areas require hikers to obtain permits beforehand, and others can only be accessed by 44. Want to do some adventurous Bora Bora hiking through the lush island interior? It is best known for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking views, as well as stunning beaches and turquoise water. 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 ! A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. including the well known Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike, on the Bora Bora tours page, along with contact details. 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). How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? 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. 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. The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. The income generated through these means helps ensure Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking in Tahiti; you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in one of the most exquisite places on Earth. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. See the Bora Bora weather page to find out more about the seasons in Bora Bora. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. 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 Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. 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. Having Azdine as a host had me checking my values and examining them Smell. We only have time for one more excursion. 2. I have read on non-tour guide websites that the hike to the top of Mt Pahia takes 5-6 hrs, and includes a "rope climb' at the end where you basically pull yourself up a cliff. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. research. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. read our advertising disclosure. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Take a picnic and make a morning or afternoon out of it, making use of the simple bench seats at the cannons. Hiking tours may involve strenuous and lengthy hike over uneven terrain, uphill and downhill trails, and under limited shade. 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. Orohena volcanic crater. 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.
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