Hiking and climbing in Bora Bora must be done during the dry season (Winter). Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you The highlight of this hike is, well everything. 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. 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. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. 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. You can use the Google search box below to search the site. Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. of the products on this site. Most excursions require healthy conditions. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. While hiking to the summit is more difficult than climbing, walkers can also access the Anau cave, which is located at the base of the mountain. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. 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). The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. 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). ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Can you hike Mount Otemanu? Staggeringly, the anthropomorph has been removed (I suspect for safe-keeping rather than stolen). Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. 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. 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. . Pregnant women/disabled guests/babies our services must be notified in advance! Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. 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. We only have time for one more excursion. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. Otemanu is a popular challenge for experienced climbers. Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very 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". Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. Take a picnic and make it a morning or afternoon out of it, using the simple bench seats on the cannons as an example. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. We may also earn commissions on some The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete. I love my job. 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). We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. 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. in a couple of days. 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. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. A full day excursion on Tahiti will take you through Papenoo Valley, including Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls, and Puraha Falls. For bargain prices with optimal weather, book summer dates early or book dates in the shoulder months of November and April. Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. Hotels Le Mridien & Four Seasons with supplement. Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. He had found the foundations of a house. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. 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. been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. 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 ! Your guide will explain how That's archeological sites. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. . 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. Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. The island of Tahiti is arguably the most popular of the 118 islands in French Polynesia. Every night he worked in the and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the The upside to being on the tour route is that this track is really obvious and its hard to get lost. Mata Pupu has some of the best views of any island in the world because of the ridge on which it is located. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while hiking in Tahiti, a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. You can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. 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! Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. Now he could live the simple life of his dreams, just from hiking. And everything was The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. why you'll see ads on this site. 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. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. His story ignites 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. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. 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. Here's our guide to navigating the island. 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. Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! wild, inner island. This short 4-kilometer round trip is a pleasant walk in which children will not fail to participate. However, dont despair, it eases off a little after around 450 meters (1476ft) when you reach a plateau with nice views over to Motu Ahuna in the lagoon. Stones must be porous to absorb the heat or they will explode. 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. Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. 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. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. with all the free and fabulous information & resources you'll more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. the island he wanted to live on. Because Azdine was the first to discover this trail, he is considered one of the best guides in Bora Bora. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. See. This is how it looked in 2008/2009 : Here is how it looked when we arrived yesterday 23rd April, 2014: It is a story of reckless ignorance, of destruction & of greed. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. The road is paved and not mountainous, making it the only hike that can be done all year round. Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. June is the hottest month in Bora Bora with an average temperature of 29C (84F) and the coldest is January at 17C (63F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 8 in September. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! 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. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. People can and do, get lost and injured due to the difficult terrain and lack of signage. 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. 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). Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. That's During WWII, a strategic military supply base was established at Bora Bora. In the dry season all-day hiking Mount Pahia, Bora Bora tours can be arranged through Otemano Tours. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. 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. 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. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. Hiking in Bora Bora: you've never seen the lagoon from this angle before Dec 2, 2021 8 min read Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. Every day he In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his research. 1 spot. It was a big city! When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. exotic far away places. 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. 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. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. 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. Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. It was in the banyan tree that Kings would find their final resting place. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! 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. Such a situation is inexplicable & the authorities must move without delay to localise this priceless piece of Polynesian history & culture, probably the most important relic of its type in French Polynesia, certainly in Bora Bora & to classify the islands historical sites. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . Get a life instead! Are you still looking for additional information? 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. All However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. Mount Pahia can be climbed in about 4 hours by fit and experienced hikers. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Mount Otemanu is located in Bora Bora and is the highest point. 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. It would take about 9-10 hours to hike around the island and return to the summit of Mount Pahia via a quick detour. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. Orohena volcanic crater. Taste. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. 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. It explains in part also the wish of modern day Bora Borians to be buried on their land & not in cemeteries or crematoriums. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. the jungle. 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. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. When it comes to hiking, you may not consider the volcanic island, but recent research has revealed that the Pacific has some of the best trails. more. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that it's possible to hike on Bora Bora. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. except Sunday. 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. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. The only guide we know offering a Mount have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. James would remain there; still, quiet for over 2 hours, moved, spiritually charged by the surroundings. However, if you want overwater bungalows and adventure on the island, Bora Bora is a great choice. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. They can only be used for one night. The average weekly stay for a more luxurious hotelier ranges between $1000 and $2000. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. 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.