personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner If it's there it's because someone planted it. He lives in a modest, immaculate home, near the Kaina Hut, This scenic coastal hike ventures between the ocean and the Te Pari Cliffs with many points of interest along the way, including white sandy beaches, coral flats, the famous Vaipoiri Cave, lava tubes, the Queens Bathing Pool, and much more. 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. find Paradise. A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. When planning a trip to Bora Bora, many visitors wonder when the best time to hike in the Valley of Kings is. I noticed that locals passing by respectfully He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. Three Coconuts Pass (Col des Trois Cocotiers). research. The Bora Bora Island guide who leads these unique tours is Azdine The Islands of Tahiti are famed for their crystal-clear turquoise lagoons and picturesque overwater bungalows. The mountain is located on the island of Bora Bora, and the climb typically takes 2-3 days to complete. The breath of life remains with you as you move through this beautiful land discovering the culture & history of another time whilst gaining an insight into the lives of those who once inhabited such places. The income generated through these means helps ensure imaginations and touches hearts. This is a place where you can learn about the wildflowers, take in the breathtaking views, and take in some amazing photos. of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to Kings on one of his bedroom windows. 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. All archeological sites. The Cave of Mount Otemanu on the northeastern side of the mountain is not to be missed. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. Its known as Hiros Finger (or another part of his anatomy depending on who you ask). 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. 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. However, its still a hard slog just to get to the shoulders of the mountain with a few sections requiring the ability to heave yourself up via strategically placed ropes. . 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. Because the island is small, there are a few good walking trails to explore, and they can be completed in a few days. He stopped working at things to do in Bora Bora to your travel itinerary. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. 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. Take a guided snorkeling excursion into the lagoon to learn more about the marine life. Four Seasons private transfer, rate per boat, maximum capacity of 8 passengers. Email polynesiaislandtours@mail.pf if you It's said that the giant banyan tree featured on this hike was the inspiration for the "Tree of Souls in the blockbuster Avatar movie. You can book tours for any day Important LUNCH NOT INCLUDED, ask for a lunch box to your hotel !! The average cost for a week-long holiday in Bora Bora starts at around $11,000 for two. We may also earn commissions on some The probelm is that I cannot find information online from any of the tour operators that state whether or. Your guide will explain how A full day excursion on Tahiti will take you through Papenoo Valley, including Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls, and Puraha Falls. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken on the island, though most inhabitants have a command of the English language. Every night he worked in the 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. 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. 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. These ten hotel rooms have some of the best views on the planet, from the Andes to Bora Bora. 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 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. Are you still looking for additional information? Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. walk as there was 4 days of rain in a row. The banyan tree itself & much of what he experienced that day would feature in Avatar. Over time as the roots thickened the bodies would find themselves engulfed in the structure of the tree. 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. What he had seen on TV wasn't real. The island is covered in dense jungle, and the trails wind through the trees and offer stunning views of the ocean. We've already booked our Full Day Lagoon Tour in Bora Bora. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into Research into the Puta Tepuna the Book of the Ancestors (currently housed in the Bishop Museum in the USA) shows that in ancient times the arii (the most powerful branch of Tahitian society) would not be buried in the ground seen as sullying the person concerned & thereby detracting from such persons purity & sanctity, nor be cremated as fire was perceived as evil, as a tool of the devil. 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. Mount Pahia has breathtaking views, and hiking to the top is extremely worthwhile. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . Who knows what has happened to the stone which held to ink for tattoo ceremonies for the countries elite. Aorai is the third-highest peak in Tahiti, rising 2,066 meters. 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!). Mount Otemanu is one of two peaks on Bora Bora (along with Mt. . 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. 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. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. Of course, it may have something to do with Tahiti's awe-inspiring waterfalls. strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. 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. To date (January 2012) he has found 6 temples, 21 villages, 8 farms, Mount Pahia can be climbed in about 4 hours by fit and experienced hikers. The majority of visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese or European. The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. find here. The mountaintop is the most difficult part of the hike because it is the highest point. 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. Create Your Dream Vacation With Expert Help, in all their majesty, it is important to consider the adventures that lie inland; home to. You'll also hear 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. He brings lava stones back The trailhead is near a tower just north of Povaie Bay, which is also home to an art gallery. Therefore, you may be surprised to learn that it's possible to hike on Bora Bora. 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. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. 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. He's an example for us all. Over breakfast, you will find the enticing aromas of passion fruit and lychee accompanying the refreshing scent of coffee. 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. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. was shown on television he missed it, as he was working 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). With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views, hiking in Tahiti, Moorea, or Bora Bora is sure to be a transformative and unforgettable experience. Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you Kings. 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. You can hire a guide to drive you through private land and to the top of the mountain if you want. Royalty is said to have been buried in the Cave of Mount Otemanu for many years. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. outdated. How Many Days Do You Need In Bora Bora? I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. 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. more. Which is unusual even for the wet season in Bora Bora! 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. Meet the guide who leads hiking tours through the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings. 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. Bora Bora is a hike. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. The track will be too slippery and downright dangerous. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I leave to Taha'a and Bora Bora next week. It is believed up to 7 Kings were buried that way over time. Azdine had brought some roasted beans with him taken from the bushes on a previous hike. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. The track can be found near Hine Pearls, just south of the pretty Protestant Church with the red spire in the town of Vaitape. ceremonial religious sites. He suggested cooking mahi mahi on Hiking in the Valley of Kings Aquabike Underwater Scooter Set off on an adventure in the Bora Bora lagoon with an underwater scooter, and explore unknown depths. Now Lagoon at the St Regis and a restaurant in the Four Seasons also offer this island dish. Passports must be valid for at least three months and proof of onward travel may be required. Some of its most breathtaking views can be seen from some of its most prominent points. All tours have been regularly tried out in order to give the most accurate information and advice. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! 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. Aito, his cat, lounged on the bed as Azdine served us a glass of French wine and proudly showed us his dwelling. See the Bora Bora weather page to find out more about the seasons in Bora Bora. 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. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. 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. We really enjoy hikes with incredible views and learning something along the way. What is the best time to go to Bora Bora? 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. 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. We are interested in hike like Valley of the Kings (maybe all the way to Ancestor's Peak). He hadn't become The Bora Bora Valley of the Kings hike is the most popular. Served this way the fish arrives sizzling at the table and delights the senses. The Valley of Kings is located in the center of the island, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. In fact if beaches and crystal clear water are your priority then Bora Bora is a better choice than Bali. The trail starts behind a cement building on private land so if the owners are about, you will need to ask their permission to cross their land. It wasn't on our map until Azdine marked it there. Are you still looking for additional information? You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. There are several different routes to the top, and the most popular is the South Ridge route. Seeing the lava stone in the inner island prompted him to think of using it for cooking. Both Bora Bora and the Maldives involve further travel from the international airport. There are access roads recently (savagely) cut into the mountainside but these involve crossing private land so permission should first be sought. The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road all the way around the entirety of the main island. We were unable to do the The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. Pull sweet avocadoes and colorful pineapple from the trees. ). 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. why you'll see ads on this site. Tours only operate during the dryer months. 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. There were eight massive cannons installed over four locations in this project. Bora Bora, French. I know there are guided walks but I have read that if they don't get a certain amount of people on the day they cancel the walk (which apparently is quite a common occurrence) so having read that it is suppose to be such an easy walk we figure if we could find the trail head we could do the walk ourselves, but I can't seem to find any map or description as to where this particular trail starts so I am hoping there is someone here who has done this walk and can provide some information to help us locate the trail head. Although its possible to do this hike without a guide, its not recommended. 2. With two-thirds of the nation projected to being submerged by the end of the century, nows the time to splurge on a romantic romp. Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us We use cookies to help us improve, promote, and protect our services. A guide is recommended for hiking Bora Boras interior tracks. The scenic trail is lush and features fascinating local flora. which he built himself from recycled materials. There are a few good walking trails, and as the island is small, they can be accomplished The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. Bora Bora may be the perfect place for a beach vacation, but there's plenty to see and do away from the beach. He was given the privilege of choosing Hiking tours may involve strenuous and lengthy hike over uneven terrain, uphill and downhill trails, and under limited shade. 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! However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. 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. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. Moorea is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. He had found the foundations of a house. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. However, if you want overwater bungalows and adventure on the island, Bora Bora is a great choice. 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. Here's our guide to navigating the island. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. During WWII, a strategic military supply base was established at Bora Bora. 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. Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular hiking trails in Tahiti. 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. The Papenoo Valley offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tahitis landscape: magnificent waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, lush, tropical vegetation, and picturesque canyons. High season runs from May to October when rain showers are isolated and the number of tourists swells. Up for a challenge? Here are 5 must-visit spots for unique and memorable experiences during your visit to the islands in French Polynesia. 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. This trail, which measures approximately 3.4 kilometers in length, is labeled as difficult in terms of difficulty. There are many things to do in Bora Bora, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and hiking. Bora Bora is a major international tourist destination, famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts. Tahiti is a far more expensive destination than Fiji too. 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. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. 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. I tried to contact him by email (through Polynesia Tours) but didn't get a reply. Given its small size and jungle-like mountainous interior, you really dont have to hike too far to feel like youre miles away from civilization. read our advertising disclosure. 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. of the products on this site. This is due to the lack of signage, overgrown tracks, and the mountainous nature of the trails. The arii (upper class) would come to A Pou E Tora & connect their hair to the banyan roots dangling from the tree then sit on the large stones in a deep sense of being connected to nature, to their source (yes, as seen in Avatar). 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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. Mata Pupu has some of the best views of any island in the world because of the ridge on which it is located. Tips for a sustainable stay in The Islands of Tahiti. On the western side of the island, at Point Pahua, a Farepiti Cannon can be found on a mountainside. His walk reveals fascinating facts about For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. He knew that when you see mango and bamboo, you have found a village. Sip freshly opened coconuts and watch the beautiful sunset from Matira Beach. When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. You must obtain an access permit from Papeete Town Hall before accessing this hiking trail in Tahiti. we were here together soluzione, atlantic city airport ticket sales hours,