Polynesian Island Tours offers a choice of fascinating cultural walks: Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. Bora Bora Island Guide invites you to There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. It was here in 2006 that Azdine (literally) uncovered the remains of amarae, not just anymaraeas it featured an almost 1.50 metre anthropomorph anthropomorphs predate the Moai of Easter Island & the traditional Tikis of French Polynesia & Hawaii by tens of thousands of years. Bora Bora Valley Of The Kings: Cultural Tours With Azdine The Guide A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. 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. Azdine had brought some roasted beans with him taken from the bushes on a previous hike. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. with artifacts 2000 years old, which he had unearthed. Enjoy our round-up of the top things to do in Bora Bora. Bora Bora, located in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning . Guide to Bora Bora Activites & Attractions. The trailhead is near a tower just north of Povaie Bay, which is also home to an art gallery. Bora Bora - Discover Polynesian History on a Valley of the Kings Hike The sunrise will shine over the lagoon and bring the clear turquoise hue to the water. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Unchallenged & unchecked by the population or its elected representatives, the destruction would continue. Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. The trailhead can be a little tricky to find. 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. at the Kaina Hut. Starting point is in Faanui, ask the locals in the area and I am sure they will gladly point you in the right direction. Taste. A map and GPS navigator can also aid in determining your course of travel. The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. Public rates mentioned on each pensions Fact Sheet. When he arrived in Papeete he cried. The islands location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean leaves it vulnerable to tidal waves whenever theres an earthquake in places as far away as Samoa or even Chile. , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. The breathtaking views from multiple vantage points, as well as the lush tropical vegetation, are just a few of the highlights of Bora Bora Hiking. 67 McCaul St, Toronto Ontario, M5T 2W7, Canada, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Bora-Care With CPES Wood: The Key To A Longer Lasting Wood, Soufrire: The First Capital City Of St Lucia, The Pros And Cons Of Replacing Bora-Care With Timbor. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet Azdine won, as he topped the course. The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. With Papeete as its capital and an international airport, Tahiti is the biggest and most developed island. For 6 months he worked in a restaurant at night, and during the day explored the And everything was That's However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. Apparently this segment of the destruction of this countrys cultural heritage commenced with earth moving contractors seeking to provide stone (rocks) for the fortification of one of the major resorts on the motu. These ten hotel rooms have some of the best views on the planet, from the Andes to Bora Bora. For bargain prices with optimal weather, book summer dates early or book dates in the shoulder months of November and April. Hikers who find these cannons will be rewarded with spectacular views of Bora Boras iconic lagoon. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. 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. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Orohena volcanic crater. 8 Days. It is an aquarium as well as a natural lagoon. Who's the Guide to Bora Bora Valley of the Kings? - Bora Bora Island 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. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . 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). Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. 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. 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. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. 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. , Three Coconuts Pass is well-maintained and easy to follow. 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 I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. 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. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. 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. The island of Tahiti is arguably the most popular of the 118 islands in French Polynesia. Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. When Azdine was a young student in France, his father put a poster of When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. Wear a light jacket that can keep both cold and warm, as well as proper hiking gear and waterproof hiking boots. the jungle. 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. ancient Bora Bora Valley of the Kings on the main island. His walk reveals fascinating facts about Said to be the final resting place for royalty in times long gone, the views from this cave are nothing short of breathtaking. The variety of local botany: many local plants have medicinal properties and are still used today for some of them. Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. I don't need to go on holiday. Boasting incredible panoramic views, Mount Pahia is the second-highest summit in Bora Bora. The Maldives vs Bora Bora: Accessibility The Maldives is more readily accessible from Europe and Africa than Bora Bora is, but if you are based in the United States then Bora Bora is the better option. . What is the cheapest time to go to Bora Bora? All Inclusions Round trip transfers to/from tour starting point; Guided tour, Schedules (transfer time from hotels not taken into account) 08h00 14h00. I have read on non-tour guide websites that the hike to the top of Mt Pahia takes 5-6 hrs, and includes a "rope climb' at the end where you basically pull yourself up a cliff. Hikers will experience incredible panoramic views not only across Bora Bora but out into the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean. The payoff to the sweaty incline? Operates Everyday (EXCEPT on Sunday & Public Holidays for Four Seasons guests ! Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. wild, inner island. Bora Bora 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 hiking in Bora Bora. The income generated through these means helps ensure Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. The importance of the site, a place of royalty, seemingly confimed by the petroglyph photographed below: A clear representation of Bora Bora, to the egg which symbolises Taaroa, the tahitian god of creation; the circular form a representation of infinity/royalty. During the high season he offers four different Bora Bora walking tours through the lush, rugged interior island. Sacred Cave of Anau is a 6 hour trek (with climbing) for those used to strenuous activity. 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. The 118 islands that make up French Polynesia each have their own culture and tourist attractions. The Valley of The Kings hike is best taken with a guide, not just because hikes on Bora Bora are rarely signed and in the words of Randy Newman, Its a jungle out there, but because this particular trail traverses over relics of the islands early history. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. Hikers can explore remnants of ancient villages and Marae (Polynesian temples) and it would be a shame to unknowingly pass these relics. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. 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. 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. Tahiti is a far more expensive destination than Fiji too. The hikes to Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia are not for the faint-hearted. find here. 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. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. Now he could live the simple life of his dreams, just from hiking. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. Kings on one of his bedroom windows. Circle the cliffs keeping to the top of the left side. Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in The trail is well-marked and maintained, so although a guide isnt necessary, one is recommended for safety purposes as the path winds along a narrow ridge. 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. If youre planning another trip to Bora Bora Island, you should definitely check out this trail. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Message 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. Tel 29.66.60 or 67.56.02. In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. of the products on this site. Free Things To Do In Bora Bora - Bora Bora Island Guide 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. Adventure or leisure? Pahia). Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. 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). He had found the foundations of a house. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. Best of French Polynesia Vacation: An Escape to Bora Bora and Tahaa To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, 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. The income generated through these means helps ensure There are several different trails to choose from, and they range in difficulty from easy to moderate. 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. Want to learn more? You must only try this fit and not suffer from vertigo. People can and do, get lost and injured due to the difficult terrain and lack of signage. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. Otemanu is a popular challenge for experienced climbers. 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. Are you still looking for additional information? This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. The best part? 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). 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". Mount Otemanu is located in Bora Bora and is the highest point. You're free to pick your paradise. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. ), 2 pers. 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. All There are a few that are difficult to locate, but others are easy to come by. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. 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 may also earn commissions on some Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor Bora-Bora, volcanic island, les Sous le Vent (Leeward Islands), in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.It lies in the central South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles (265 km) northwest of Tahiti.The mountainous island, some 6 miles (10 km) long and 2.5 miles (4 km) wide, has Mount Otemanu (Temanu; 2,385 feet [727 metres]) and twin-peaked Mount Pahia (2,159 feet [658 metres]) as its highest . exotic far away places. 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!). Bora Bora is a hike. and 2 tombs, which he estimates to be about 5 percent of the His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. Because it is considered difficult in terms of difficulty, it must be well prepared. Of course, it may have something to do with Tahiti's awe-inspiring waterfalls. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. by Sean Arnett | Nov 29, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. The mountain is only accessible by hiking with a certified guide. It will take you two and a half hours to reach the summit, which is 610 meters higher than the lowest point. As the place of royalty there is an area of carved stone believed to have been used by woman to give birth: Most importantly of all the area was used to bury the Kings of Bora Bora. Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. The cave leading to the island lagoon is a fantastic spot to see the islands lagoon and the surrounding green space. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Bora Bora is synonymous with relaxing in splendor but there's more to this beauty than the beach. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working I found an old string with some contact information for him: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g311415-i869-k7354379-How_to_contact_Azdine_about_valley_of_tht_kings_tours-Bora_Bora_Society_Islands.html. Here are some of the best places to go, is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as. 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. Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical vegetation. Hiking in Bora Bora: Green mountains & WW2 American guns 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. Perched on the mountainside above Point Pahua on the western point of the island, the views from the cannons are superb. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Oh the romance! 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. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. which he built himself from recycled materials. Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. It makes for the most powerful of encounters: The banyan tree is called Tumu Ora (the Tree of Life) in Tahitian & it was to this special place that Azdine took James Cameron, a man captivated by Polynesian culture & the producer of the film Avatar. The summit is 3,757 meters (12,335 feet) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the French Polynesian Islands. A local guide is recommended due to the dangerous hiking conditions, which involve climbing, ropes and forging through an unmaintained track. In the dry season all-day hiking Mount Pahia, Bora Bora tours can be arranged through Otemano Tours. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. Sip freshly opened coconuts and watch the beautiful sunset from Matira Beach. However, if you want overwater bungalows and adventure on the island, Bora Bora is a great choice. The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. We were unable to do the For his 6 hour 2,168ft (661m) tour you must be very The only guide we know offering a Mount south of the Protestant church. In the rainy season, hiking in Bora Bora can be difficult. Valley of the Kings is an easy 3 hour walk which most people can do. things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. Most excursions require healthy conditions. 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. Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. The InterContinental Thalasso is a luxury overwater villa, on a small private island. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. 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This mountain on the romantic island has a natural history that is as much about the island as it is about the lagoon. Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. Some of the websites offering these are Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. ). Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. It was a big city! Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. He planned to Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? There are a number of ways to see this area situated in the mountainside up behind the destinctive church at the foot of Faanui Bay. Up to the time of the missionaries, the Tahitians lived in the valleys rather than beside the sea. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! A television crew came from Papeete to make a documentary. 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. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Who wouldnt want to brag about conquering it? You get to choose where you stay each night and how far you walk each day. However, its best to ask around when you get there as nothing is signposted. 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. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. There are limited flights to Bora Bora (only four per day), and they all originate in Tahiti. 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. , a visit to the Faraura Valley is a must. Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. 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.