We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most challenging hike we've done recently is Kauai's Kalaulau Trail to the first beach). The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. 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. Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora - BikeHike 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. Answer 1 of 6: Hi, My husband and I are relatively fit in our mid-twenties and are thinking of doing a guided hike that goes through The Valley of Kings. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working 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 May 9, 2018 - Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings to discover cultural sites revealing information about the island's early history. 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. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Bora Bora's most prized piece of white sand has been named " best beach in the world ", and the best thing about it is that everyone can enjoy it! The initial section will give your calves a workout and make you sweat in the tropical humidity. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum I am on holiday". Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. referred to him as 'the guide'. From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. 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. On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were Motus In Bora Bora (Motu Tapu, Motu Tevairoa, Motu Pitiauu), Information, History, & Location About Bora Bora. We may also earn commissions on some It is only possible to do these tours during dry weather. with artifacts 2000 years old, which he had unearthed. Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. 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. He suggested cooking mahi mahi on Oh the romance! Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: Kings on one of his bedroom windows. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. The photo below shows how to survive in the unlikelihood of your being lost in the mountains Bora Bora without water the snake vine is your answer; the taste is more than acceptable: When Azdine started undertaking this hike in only 2006 he was drawn to the cliff-face that flanks Mts Otemanu & Pahia, certain that there would be caves; caves used for centuries to bury the dead. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. The island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to eat the island's bounty straight from the tree and take in those iconic views of the turquoise and blue lagoon. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. In Vaitape take the road to the The payoff to the sweaty incline? Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you 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. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? Hikers seeking the well preserved Point Fitiuu Cannons in Anau on the eastern side of the main island will be treated to stunning views of both Mt Otemanu and Bora Boras magnificent lagoon. Direct payment at the pension. 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. You can use the Google search box below to search the site. The cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. 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. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. except Sunday. 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. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. Are you still looking for additional information? This mountain on the romantic island has a natural history that is as much about the island as it is about the lagoon. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. We would arrive at a stunning plateau at the foot of Mts Otemanu & Pahia, a place of rare beauty surrounded by these majestic mountains & other prominent peaks. 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. 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). With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views, hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. Want to do some adventurous Bora Bora hiking through the lush island interior? 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. Circle the cliffs keeping to the top of the left side. Stones must be porous to absorb the heat or they will explode. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. Bora Bora is a hike. 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. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. The road is paved and not mountainous, making it the only hike that can be done all year round. Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! 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). Hiking the Valley of Kings - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor 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. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. 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. 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. Nonetheless, its best to avoid stingrays and barracudas from Bora Bora. But with his dynamic The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. You must only try this So put it at the top of your list of free things to do in Bora Bora. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? 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! Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. 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. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. Sip freshly opened coconuts and watch the beautiful sunset from Matira Beach. With two-thirds of the nation projected to being submerged by the end of the century, nows the time to splurge on a romantic romp. Adventure or leisure? worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News However, the views from the summit are incredible, and the experience of climbing such a tall mountain is truly unforgettable. 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. 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. more. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. The Best Time To Hike In The Valley Of Kings | Private Islands Blog features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. wild, inner island. of the products on this site. The average price of a vacation home in Bora Bora this evening is $322 (based on Booking.com prices). Why struggle to pay a mortgage on a This is a place where you can learn about the wildflowers, take in the breathtaking views, and take in some amazing photos. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. The average weekly stay for a more luxurious hotelier ranges between $1000 and $2000. ). restaurant, and Tahitian people don't go in the restaurant. 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. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). including the well known Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike, on the Bora Bora tours page, along with contact details. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. He's an example for us all. The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. 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. About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. In the rainy season, hiking in Bora Bora can be difficult. Because it is considered difficult in terms of difficulty, it must be well prepared. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to For those interested in seeing waterfalls while hiking in Tahiti, a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. The Faanui WWII Guns trail, one of the most popular hiking trails in Bora Bora, is a great place to go hiking while in the area. 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. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. Email polynesiaislandtours@mail.pf if you Backpack (Sac dos), Bottle of water (Eau), Camera (Appareil photo), Comfy clothes (Tenue confort), Hat (Chapeau). Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. Hiking and climbing in Bora Bora must be done during the dry season (Winter). The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. Pahia is no walk in the park either and unlike Otemanu, you can actually reach the peak. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. 3 Things to See and Do While Honeymooning in Bora Bora We had already caught a view of the sun setting over the islands dramatic silhouette from our anchorage in Tahaa and it certainly looked beautiful. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. Here are 5 must-visit spots for unique and memorable experiences during your visit to the islands in French Polynesia. 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. He was given the privilege of choosing Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. You will need to have a reasonable level of fitness and know your bodys limits. French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. 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 also many tour companies that offer activities such as helicopter tours, 44 off-road tours, and lagoon cruises. 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. 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). By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. 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. The most popular hiking trail in Moorea, Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. Coral reefs surround it and form part of the landscape. When Azdine was a young student in France, his father put a poster of Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. Azdine, the guide, will share information about geology, ancestral plants, medicine and sacred trees. at the Kaina Hut. 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! In December 2005 he arrived in Bora Bora. Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. 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. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. 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. You can book tours for any day hours Azdine displayed the remnants of ancient life, Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. 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. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Message Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. fit and not suffer from vertigo. Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. Its the question on every hiker's lips when they first see it. The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. 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. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. 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. Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. Get a life instead! . Once you leave the sealed circle island road, it will take around 10 minutes of uphill walking but the views of the motus (little islands) in the lagoon will distract you from your burning calves. 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. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. All Rights Reserved, The view which outlines the ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings, 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. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. The turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora are also perfect for kayaking; you can even take time to observe the colorful marine life below. The income generated through these means helps ensure Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. Aorai is the third-highest peak in Tahiti, rising 2,066 meters. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. Add these best free (and nearly free!) 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. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. why you'll see ads on this site. He knew that when you see mango and bamboo, you have found a village. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. . The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. 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. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . 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. There's More To a Bora Bora Vacation Than Beaches . 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. For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora, The best ways to get around Bora Bora: taxis, boats and bare feet, The best time to visit Bora Bora: budget or blowout, here's our guide, A date with the ocean in Mo'orea, French Polynesia, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. 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. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum of the products on this site. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. 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. NOTE: the cost of the lowest cost overwater bungalow starts from about USD 430 per night, and the most expensive being around USD 2,000 per night. Valley of the Kings Reviews | U.S. News Travel the jungle. 2. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. Azdine won, as he topped the course. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. Most excursions require healthy conditions. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. That's Hiking tours may involve strenuous and lengthy hike over uneven terrain, uphill and downhill trails, and under limited shade. research. The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. The scent is exquisite, that of the finest coffee perfumed with a rich hint of dark chocolate slurp! How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. I will be on the mission & readers will be the first to know of the findings! build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit.