It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. 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. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. That's When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. This is the only hike that's all-weather accessible as the road is paved and not too mountainous. 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. 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. 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. The track can be found by heading clockwise around the island on the main road. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! 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). been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. Warm clear seas, tropical vistas and utter luxury: say hello to anoverwaterbungalow or villa vacation in 2023. A hiking of about 6 hours through the Valley of kings to the Ancestors Peak. 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 High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. Every night he worked in the 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. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. Now he could live the simple life of his dreams, just from hiking. 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. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. Want to visit Bora Bora without breaking the bank? They can only be used for one night. in a couple of days. Swim, sun bake and snorkel in this warm turquoise water. 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. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, 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. Kings. 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. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. 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. lava stone to the Kaina Hut. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Free Things To Do In Bora Bora - Bora Bora Island Guide with artifacts 2000 years old, which he had unearthed. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. The 7 best hikes in Bora Bora - Lonely Planet of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to The upside to being on the tour route is that this track is really obvious and its hard to get lost. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum 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 . Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. I wonder if information such as the above will spur change.. Not far from the marae can be found perhaps the greatest discovery. find Paradise. The 118 islands that make up French Polynesia each have their own culture and tourist attractions. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. Taste. 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 trail begins at the Belvedere parking lot and offers impressive views of Mount Tohivea, the Opunohu Valley, Opunohu Bay, Cooks Bay, and more. When it comes to cost and other worldly scuba diving, Fiji is the most effective choice. 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? 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. The trailhead can be found on the south-western end of the island, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. Being surprised at just how many different shades of blue can be seen in one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world from your new viewpoint. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. This is also the lunch break point (not included). Bora Bora Adventure - Earth Gear I love my job. ). Hiking in French Polynesia is unlike anything you have ever experienced. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that it's possible to hike on Bora Bora. 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. Best of French Polynesia Vacation: An Escape to Bora Bora and Tahaa 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 ! 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. wild, inner island. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . 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. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. Hiking in French Polynesia is an experience unlike any other. This hiking trail is rated as moderately difficult for a reason: it has a steep terrain. Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. 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. An impressive sight from a distance is Puraha . With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. 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. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that its possible to hike on Bora Bora. Thanks in advanced to any help provided =D. 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. contentedly. 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 payoff to the sweaty incline? 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. 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. Royalty is said to have been buried in the Cave of Mount Otemanu for many years. . Add these best free (and nearly free!) Its the opportunity to not miss a single stunning stretch of coastline, view of the lagoon, village, and fabulous eatery. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. Three Coconuts Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers). , striking mountain peaks, lush valleys, and ancient ruins, there is much to be explored and appreciated. the island he wanted to live on. Are you still looking for additional information? 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. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in Used in ancient times its remarkably cleansing leaving great softness to your hands & hair: When we completed the ascent wewiped the sweat from our brows with the inner layer of the skin of a pamplamouse. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. 8 Days. 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. 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. While snacking, you'll notice that one of the cannons faces The Four Seasons Resort and the other faces Mt Otemanu. He hadn't become A peaceful and slow-paced island, Moorea is a hidden gem with stunning natural wonders. Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. The turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora are also perfect for kayaking; you can even take time to observe the colorful marine life below. The hike is actually pretty easy but difficult to find if you don't know. 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. Coral reefs surround it and form part of the landscape. The Faanui guns WWII hike is one of the shortest and easiest hikes on the island. These short shoulder seasons offer fine weather with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s. Valley of the Kings Hike or 4x4 WD Island Tour? - Bora Bora Forum The year long course taught intensive archeology, biology, anthropology and geology. Hiking in Bora Bora: Green mountains & WW2 American guns Smell. Bora Bora is a beautiful island in French Polynesia. Due to dangerous trail conditions, a local guide is essential for this hike; climbing experience is also necessary. 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. Bora Bora, located in the Pacific Ocean, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning . Nonetheless, its best to avoid stingrays and barracudas from Bora Bora. It is critical that you wear protective footwear on a regular basis to avoid being harmed by stonefish, urchins, or coral itself while in the ocean. 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. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Mount Otemanu is located in Bora Bora and is the highest point. find here. A local guide is very useful. As will the fun of actually finding the cannons, even if one of the barrels has gone missing. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. It would take about 9-10 hours to hike around the island and return to the summit of Mount Pahia via a quick detour. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. You can book tours for any day 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. Every year, the Hawaiian Islands receive more visitors in ten days than the entire French Polynesia. Because the terrain is rough and steep at times, it is essential to wear shoes with adequate grip and traction. The history of the island of Bora Bora: learn how the island of Bora Bora was born, the characteristics of the population and the legends that feed its history. strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. intriguing Polynesian legends and taste wild island fruits and coconuts, plucked straight from the trees. It was a climb of several days through thick jungle through which he cut a path. 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. 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. archeological sites. Most visitors head to Bora Bora for a blissful, tropical island vacation that centers around relaxing in an overwater bungalow on the sparkling lagoon. Here's our pick of the best beaches on Bora Bora. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? Best use of a few hours in Bora Bora before flight, Cash: Best way to exchange for USD for XPF, How to go from Intercontinental Thalasso Spa to St. Regis, When is low season for traveling to Bora Bora, Couples Retreat the movie with Vince Vaughn, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, an IHG Hotel, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, an IHG Hotel. The answer depends on a few factors, including the weather and the level of difficulty of the hike. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. 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. 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. The income generated through these means helps ensure Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. mini / 8 pers. Every day he We only have time for one more excursion. Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Despite the fact that shark attacks are rare in Bora Bora, there are a large number of them. why you'll see ads on this site. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush green vegetation. Dont feel bad if before you reach the top your body says, What on earth were you thinking? The views are amazing from even halfway up so youre still in for a treat. As we climbed we were surrounded by fruit-trees which took me back to my days on the farm as a boy, to the delights of eating fruit from the tree; fruit which grows so plentifully in these valleys & on these mountainsides. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the This trail features ancient temples and colorful native flora, culminating at an exquisite outlook with panoramic views of the famous Bora Bora lagoon and neighboring islands. This route is considered to be fairly challenging, with some exposed sections and some steep climbs. build a house of coconut palm on the beach, fish, and pick fruit. . This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The school held a competition as an Hikers who find these cannons will be rewarded with spectacular views of Bora Boras iconic lagoon. Valley of the Kings trailhead - Bora Bora Forum - Tripadvisor Other important stones representing the seats of the King & of the Tehua, & those representing the seven ariinow form part of a certain hotels retaining wall or remain lost forever in the stones that remain on-sight. Those who find these cannons will have spectacular views of the lagoon as well as a unique perspective on the city. 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. The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty.