He worked in a restaurant and convinced the government to accept him for training in Tahiti as a Polynesian hiking guide. You can also explore inland trails, as well as those closer to the beach. 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. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. Every day he The elevation is determined by the terrain. Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora | Teesnature French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Beyond the hustle and bustle of Papeete, its capital city, lies a remarkable landscape rich in hiking opportunities. 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. Climbing Mt. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. 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. 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). 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. Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. Alternatively, you may use, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. Partway along this walk is an interestingly shaped geological feature jutting dramatically out of the ground. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. Best Outdoor Activities for your Honeymoon in Bora Bora - The Plunge That's 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. Aorai is the third-highest peak in Tahiti, rising 2,066 meters. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. 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. Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. 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. Bora Boras lagoon is ridiculously picturesque, and the palm-shaded beaches are just as beautiful. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. You're free to pick your paradise. more. Three Coconuts Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers). , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. expensive. Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. Email polynesiaislandtours@mail.pf if you archeological sites. Do not attempt to hike Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia if you cant deal with heights or suffer from vertigo. I will be on the mission & readers will be the first to know of the findings! The mountain is extremely difficult to access, so youll need some of the best hiking gear available. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Travel News The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. at the Kaina Hut. Tour guide for Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora - Tripadvisor lava stone to the Kaina Hut. He had found the foundations of a house. ceremonial religious sites. 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 ! The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. Stones must be porous to absorb the heat or they will explode. Mount Pahia can be climbed in about 4 hours by fit and experienced hikers. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. 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. 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. Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. There are a few that are difficult to locate, but others are easy to come by. imaginations and touches hearts. 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. hours Azdine displayed the remnants of ancient life, The hike takes about a kilometer and is only slightly elevated. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum The income generated through these means helps ensure 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. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. his son to study hard so that one day he would be able to travel to In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. 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. A local guide is very useful. Pahia is no walk in the park either and unlike Otemanu, you can actually reach the peak. 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. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. Take a picnic and make it a morning or afternoon out of it, using the simple bench seats on the cannons as an example. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. afresh. Orohena volcanic crater. Want to learn more? this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the It is an amazing destination that has grown in popularity in recent years. 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. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that it's possible to hike on Bora Bora. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his From here, it's an easier hike to the cannons. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. 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. 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. 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. 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). Bora Bora Hiking is a rewarding experience because the lush tropical vegetation is so beautiful and there are amazing The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. if this is "all" then the form show a list of all hotels, otherwise if it's empty it will not have a hotel selection field, Please enter a number greater than or equal to. research. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? This is also the lunch break point (not included). 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. The Best Time To Hike In The Valley Of Kings | Private Islands Blog I don't believe he does a tour everyday, but I had the concierge at our hotel set it up for me. Hear. 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. If it's there it's because someone planted it. of the products on this site. You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this hiking trail in Tahiti. Pahia). How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort. Smell. The island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. What is the number 1 island in the world? The Bora Bora Island guide who leads these unique tours is Azdine Every night he worked in the Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. Are you still looking for additional information? During WWII, a strategic military supply base was established at Bora Bora. 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. been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. 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. Bora Bora is a hike. 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. I noticed that locals passing by respectfully Hiking tours may involve strenuous and lengthy hike over uneven terrain, uphill and downhill trails, and under limited shade. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. . It has four peaks spread over 4 miles that are at least 2,500 feet in height, including Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin peaks Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Tel. It is a magnificent & majestic setting of huge stones backed by what is the largest banyan tree known in French Polynesia probably in the pacific. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. When the program When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. 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. 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. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. Do we have to contact him before we get to Bora Bora - is there a tour every day? 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. Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. Bora Bora Valley Of The Kings: Cultural Tours With Azdine The Guide Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. Mount Otemanu (727m), the highest and most recognizable feature on Bora Bora Island, has only one option to climb up: to its shoulder. 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. Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. I love my job. The concierge at your hotel will know all about the hikes (every local has done them as a kid), and the shortest one is Valley of the Kings, which is about 3 hours and great for all difficulty levels. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. Its the question on every hiker's lips when they first see it. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. The average weekly stay for a more luxurious hotelier ranges between $1000 and $2000. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. 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. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. The payoff to the sweaty incline? 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. He pictured the tropical jungle and the lagoon. When you stay at an overwater villa In Bora Bora or Moorea, you can snorkel or swim right off your private deck. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. exotic far away places. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. You can book tours for any day Having Azdine as a host had me checking my values and examining them Some are difficult to find but others are waiting to be discovered if you are willing to explore. There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. He was given the privilege of choosing We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. 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! We only have time for one more excursion. A full day excursion on Tahiti will take you through Papenoo Valley, including Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls, and Puraha Falls. A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. island's main village was originally located there. For those interested in seeing waterfalls while hiking in Tahiti, a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. . To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Heading clockwise on the circle island road, make your way to the Pearl Beach Resort ferry departure (lagoon side of the road) a few kilometers past Faanui. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. 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. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. 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 banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. in a couple of days. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. A short walk through lush vegetation, across a small creek & a climb up large stones you will bring you to Apoo Ote Ora (the Circle of Life). It is best known for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, and breathtaking views, as well as stunning beaches and turquoise water. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. 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. acquainted with the locals. Hiking and climbing in Bora Bora must be done during the dry season (Winter). While snacking, you'll notice that one of the cannons faces The Four Seasons Resort and the other faces Mt Otemanu. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. 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. 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. 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. A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. The lagoon in Bora Bora has one ocean pass that opens to the sea. That's early Bora Bora's culture and provides pleasurable foraging for wild tropical foods along the way. The highest point in Bora Bora is certainly not a walk in the park. 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. He stopped working at We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. The Ultimate Guide on How to Visit French Polynesia Mount Pahia (741m) is located southeast of Mount Otemanu and is well-known as a hiking destination. It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. 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. 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. Tours only operate during the dryer months. Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Valley of Kings on a Half Day Tour with Far and Away Adventures Your Dream Vacation is Here Book Your Trip Walk in the Valley of Kings - Half Day You will discover through these ethnobotanical walks other treasures of Bora Bora: mountains and rich nature. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. How much are overwater bungalows in Bora Bora? find here. 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. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Bora Bora: A Slice Of Paradise | Private Islands Blog 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. The vibrant city of Papeete blends traditional and modern Polynesian . Hiking in Bora Bora: Green mountains & WW2 American guns For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very except Sunday. Is Bora Bora the most beautiful place on earth? Hotels are few and fancy, ranging from $400$2,000 per night for the lowest standard rates. Direct payment at the pension. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. All However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in Travelers can also get to the Valley of the Kings - which is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. - by bike, taxi or tour bus. 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 cheapest time to go to Bora Bora: The best deals can be found in Bora Boras off season between October and May. 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). and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the You should choose a professional or advanced hiker with the necessary equipment. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. The best part? . Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. 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! Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. Trekking in Bora Bora means getting up-close views of not only the lush rainforest -filled with hibiscus blossoms, paw-paw trees, and wild vanilla-but also remnants of the island's ancient civilization. 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. What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? Here's our guide to navigating the island. Best of French Polynesia Vacation: An Escape to Bora Bora and Tahaa