It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. Pahia is no walk in the park either and unlike Otemanu, you can actually reach the peak. Bora Bora is a hike. 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 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. Here are 5 must-visit spots for unique and memorable experiences during your visit to the islands in French Polynesia. The best times to go to Bora Bora are November and April. The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. Public rates mentioned on each pensions Fact Sheet. It takes about 10 hours to hike Mount Otemanu. wild, inner island. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. The road is paved and not mountainous, making it the only hike that can be done all year round. in the restaurant and no one told him it was on. this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner 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. Itinerary and order of the visited sites may change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other circumstances. We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. 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). 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. Where to Find Tahitian Waterfalls | Tahiti Waterfalls Said to be the final resting place for royalty in times long gone, the views from this cave are nothing short of breathtaking. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. Gregoire Le Bacon Tahiti Nui Helicopters. 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). There's More To a Bora Bora Vacation Than Beaches Mt Otemanu is the ultimate aim of every hiker in Bora Bora but it's not for the faint of heart TriggerPhoto / Getty Images, Hiking in Bora Bora: youve never seen the lagoon from this angle before. want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Pahia). 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. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? why you'll see ads on this site. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. 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. Do Not Forget :Backpack (Sac dos), Bottle of water (Eau), Camera (Appareil photo), Comfy clothes (Tenue confort), Hat (Chapeau),Hiking shoes (Souliers rando), Lunch pack (Pique nique), MosquitoSpray (Anti-moustique), Suncreen SPF50 (Crme solaire), Snack (Collation), Sunglasses (Lunettes soleil), Socks (Chaussettes). 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, "It's a jungle out there", but because this particular trail traverses over relics of the island's early history. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. Who wouldnt want to brag about conquering it? Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor Otemanu is a popular challenge for experienced climbers. Hiking the Valley of Kings - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor contentedly. In the dry season all-day hiking Mount Pahia, Bora Bora tours can be arranged through Otemano Tours. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. incentive for students to meet their commitments. Some are difficult to find but others are waiting to be discovered if you are willing to explore. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. Swim, sun bake and snorkel in this warm turquoise water. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. How much would a vacation home in Bora Bora cost tonight? 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. Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? The payoff to the sweaty incline? features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. outdated. If you're wondering why a Frenchman of a Moroccan background is taking Polynesian cultural tours There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. 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. Staggeringly, the anthropomorph has been removed (I suspect for safe-keeping rather than stolen). In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. Get a life instead! Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour Explore four spectacular waterfalls and their glistening basins, the Mahateaho River, and lush Tahitian flora while immersing yourself in the legends associated with the valleys landmarks. Take a picnic and make it a morning or afternoon out of it, using the simple bench seats on the cannons as an example. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to 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. Hiking and Mountain Climbing in Bora Bora: An Excursion - Zicasso The island of Tahiti is arguably the most popular of the 118 islands in French Polynesia. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? 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. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. When we met Azdine he had been in Bora Bora for 6 years. 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 Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in Tahiti. The mountain is extremely difficult to access, so youll need some of the best hiking gear available. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Want to learn more? Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. Who's the Guide to Bora Bora Valley of the Kings? - Bora Bora Island Guide Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. Mount Otemanu is the most difficult and highest peak on the island, rising 727 meters above sea level. Free Things To Do In Bora Bora - Bora Bora Island Guide 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. 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. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. 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. 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. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. Smell. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. Orohena volcanic crater. Nonetheless, its best to avoid stingrays and barracudas from Bora Bora. PIck-Up / Drop-Off At bases or receptions of all hotels or pensions . 1 spot. maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! The weather in Bora Bora is relatively stable year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 27-32 degrees Celsius. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. 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. 8 Days. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. Pregnant women/disabled guests/babies our services must be notified in advance! Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. 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. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. mini / 8 pers. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, Hiking in the Valley of Kings on Ancestors Path - Far and Away Adventures Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. For bargain prices with optimal weather, book summer dates early or book dates in the shoulder months of November and April. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. He brings lava stones back 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. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. His other favorite places when he's not on the mountain! See the Bora Bora weather page to find out more about the seasons in Bora Bora. is an experience unlike any other. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the archeological sites. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. The trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. A, 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. 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. We may also earn commissions on some We were unable to do the It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. You're free to pick your paradise. Add these best free (and nearly free!) 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. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. Adventure or leisure? 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! The Four Seasons Resort Bora Boras thatch-roof overwater bungalows offer easy access to South Pacifics turquoise waters as well as postcard-worthy views of Mount Otemanu. He hadn't become The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. If youre planning another trip to Bora Bora Island, you should definitely check out this trail. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. When the program Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. 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. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. south of the Protestant church. You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this hiking trail in Tahiti. lava stone to the Kaina Hut. You will need to have a reasonable level of fitness and know your bodys limits. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Rich, colorful vegetation abounds, and visitors can delight in taking a refreshing dip in the glistening pools beneath the picturesque falls. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. 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. Spread over four locations, eight giant cannons were installed high on the hills in Bora Bora and they're still there today. There are a few that are difficult to locate, but others are easy to come by. See. 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. Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. 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. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. research. It explains in part also the wish of modern day Bora Borians to be buried on their land & not in cemeteries or crematoriums. 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. Vanilla grew wild in the trees, we were surrounded by wild ginger & our thirsts were quenched by the water of fresh coconuts. 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 elevation is determined by the terrain. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. 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! Mt. Every night he worked in the About 4,000 people inhabit the island of Bora Bora. You will be rewarded at the end with spectacular views, but there are still some steep cliffs to climb. Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? Each guest should carefully review the tour description to evaluate its own physical limits. find here. 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 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. Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. Mount Pahia is Mount Otemanus twin-peaked and shorter sibling, topping out at 658 m (2159ft). . Best Outdoor Activities for your Honeymoon in Bora Bora - The Plunge Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination. Most excursions require healthy conditions. Our last stop in French Polynesia was the island of Bora Bora, often named as the most beautiful place on earth. imaginations and touches hearts. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. Some of the websites offering these are Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings.