He hadn't become Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. imaginations and touches hearts. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. Are you still looking for additional information? Kings. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. Hiking in Polynesia, such as Tahiti, Moorea, or Bora Bora, is atransformational and unforgettable experience because of the diversity of tropical vegetation, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. 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. The banyan tree itself & much of what he experienced that day would feature in Avatar. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. 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. 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 initial section will give your calves a workout and make you sweat in the tropical humidity. 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. archeological sites. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. 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. 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. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. Add these best free (and nearly free!) find here. Bora-Bora, volcanic island, les Sous le Vent (Leeward Islands), in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.It lies in the central South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles (265 km) northwest of Tahiti.The mountainous island, some 6 miles (10 km) long and 2.5 miles (4 km) wide, has Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin-peaked Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]) as its highest . The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. research. All Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. 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. The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. When he arrived in Papeete he cried. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. For 6 months he worked in a restaurant at night, and during the day explored the The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). except Sunday. The upside to being on the tour route is that this track is really obvious and its hard to get lost. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. The school held a competition as an Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . 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. His story ignites Seeing the lava stone in the inner island prompted him to think of using it for cooking. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? Each guest should carefully review the tour description to evaluate its own physical limits. Azdine won, as he topped the course. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. 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. Mount Otemanu is one of two peaks on Bora Bora (along with Mt. This is the only hike that's all-weather accessible as the road is paved and not too mountainous. The breath of life remains with you as you move through this beautiful land discovering the culture & history of another time whilst gaining an insight into the lives of those who once inhabited such places. find Paradise. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. They can only be used for one night. 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. In Vaitape take the road to the Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. contentedly. When the program views from various vantage points. afresh. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us All rights reserved. Tours only operate during the dryer months. 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! Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to As Azdine said to us: The difference between a foreigner & a local tahitian is that the foreigner has a watch, but the tahitian has the time! 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 trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. 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. Bora Bora, located in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning . The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. Want to do some adventurous Bora Bora hiking through the lush island interior? We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. This kind of activity is recommended for guests in very good physical condition. Tel. Or is there also another guide? 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. This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. 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. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. 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 There are also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner 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 island is small and there isnt all that much to see. The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. This short 4-kilometer round trip is a pleasant walk in which children will not fail to participate. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. 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 ! 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. Said to be the final resting place for royalty in times long gone, the views from this cave are nothing short of breathtaking. In the rainy season, hiking in Bora Bora can be difficult. Staggeringly, the anthropomorph has been removed (I suspect for safe-keeping rather than stolen). ceremonial religious sites. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. Hike through history. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. 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). During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. It is an amazing destination that has grown in popularity in recent years. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete. The turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora are also perfect for kayaking; you can even take time to observe the colorful marine life below. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. Orohena volcanic crater. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. 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. 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. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. 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. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. The road is paved and not mountainous, making it the only hike that can be done all year round. Direct payment at the pension. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. It is best known for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking views, as well as stunning beaches and turquoise water. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. Papa's intention was to motivate Most excursions require healthy conditions. 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. I don't need to go on holiday. 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. Mango is not natural in the jungle. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, You're free to pick your paradise. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! 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. You can book tours for any day Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. 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. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. Hiking in the Valley of Kings Aquabike Underwater Scooter Set off on an adventure in the Bora Bora lagoon with an underwater scooter, and explore unknown depths. We would soon realise also that it is for the sprituality it imparts. 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. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. 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. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. ), 2 pers. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. 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. We had contacted Azdine because we were keen to explore the famous Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. exotic far away places. 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. The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. In December 2005 he arrived in Bora Bora. read our advertising disclosure. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while hiking in Tahiti, a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. Because Azdine was the first to discover this trail, he is considered one of the best guides in Bora Bora. Are you still looking for additional information? acquainted with the locals. 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 only guide we know offering a Mount Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. Climbing Mt. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. How much are overwater bungalows in Bora Bora? There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. 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. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. Which InterContinental in Bora Bora is better? In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his research. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. at the Kaina Hut. 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. PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . 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. 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. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. The Hitiaa lava tubes near Taravao are some of the most unique and magnificent hiking trails in Tahiti. why you'll see ads on this site. The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. Adventure or leisure? lava stone to the Kaina Hut. Some are difficult to find but others are waiting to be discovered if you are willing to explore. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into 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. 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. On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. 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 hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. 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. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. . When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. It was a climb of several days through thick jungle through which he cut a path. Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the For bargain prices with optimal weather, book summer dates early or book dates in the shoulder months of November and April. That's Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Smell. Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. 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. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. This is a place where you can learn about the wildflowers, take in the breathtaking views, and take in some amazing photos. You must only try this Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. See. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. It would take about 9-10 hours to hike around the island and return to the summit of Mount Pahia via a quick detour. 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". 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. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. is an experience unlike any other. There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. But with his dynamic When the missionaries arrived Tahitians grew their hair long in the belief it gave them strength. Valley of The Kings: most popular hike on Bora Bora Around 3 hours, easy to moderate 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. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? He's an example for us all. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. A local guide is very useful. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. This is also the lunch break point (not included). The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! You can find a description of Azdine's tours, While snacking, you'll notice that one of the cannons faces The Four Seasons Resort and the other faces Mt Otemanu. 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. The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort. outdated. After his discoveries were televised, visitors coming to Bora Bora wanted to take the historic tour. Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. If youre planning another trip to Bora Bora Island, you should definitely check out this trail. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? early Bora Bora's culture and provides pleasurable foraging for wild tropical foods along the way. 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 in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort.