Royalty is said to have been buried in the Cave of Mount Otemanu for many years. 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It would present him with an opportunity to look into the botany, archaeology, ethnology & geology of this fascinating area of Bora Bora. With an abundance of tropical vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views. In Vaitape take the road to the been scaled by foot it is possible for a helicopter to land on it's summit. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. It explains in part also the wish of modern day Bora Borians to be buried on their land & not in cemeteries or crematoriums. Travelers can enter Bora Bora for 90 days every six months without a visa. Hotels Le Mridien & Four Seasons with supplement. 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. Because the island of Bora Bora is a small one, hiking the entire coast is possible in a single day. Ancesters Road or the Track of the Past is an easy full day tour for the fit. Follow it up until you pass clumps of mango trees, where you veer a little towards the left. Bora Boras iconic peaks are steeped in history and legend, providing a transformative experience to those fortunate enough to traverse them. restaurant, and Tahitian people don't go in the restaurant. ). Great for families, the Papenoo Valley is home to some of the most popular. referred to him as 'the guide'. If it's there it's because someone planted it. The elevation is determined by the terrain. 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. He said, "I haven't left, because every day I'm on holiday. Most excursions require healthy conditions. "When I stand in my shower I see my mountain" he tells us The banyan tree has great cultural significance, as it served as the final resting place for the kings of Bora Bora. . However, there are a few areas where the trail is steep and slippery, so visitors should take care when hiking in these areas. 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). Mount Pahia Ascent is one of the countrys best hiking trails. There is a lot of uphill hiking, so be prepared for a workout. 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. Pahia climb is Azdine, who also takes tours through the Valley of the Although it is a far more expensive destination than the Indonesian island. Every day he Using a machete, he removed thick vegetation to uncover the ruins of an ancient marae Bora Bora temple. is a quick ferry ride away from Tahiti. Great for canyon enthusiasts, this lush hiking trail in Tahiti features striking landscapes, waterfalls, and native flora. of the products on this site. 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. 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. Bora Bora hiking in the Valley of the Kings On these Bora Bora hiking tours you are led along old pathways to explore the remnants of ancient villages and maraes, which were ceremonial religious sites. 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. 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. except Sunday. 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. 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. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. We are in our early 50's, in good shape and are moderate hikers (most challenging hike we've done recently is Kauai's Kalaulau Trail to the first beach). Listen out for the island's 4x4 and quad bike tours, which can be heard rumbling up the narrow track behind you if you happen to be hiking it. personality, Azdine conveyed a wealth of Bora Bora culture over coffee at the Paradisio, lunch at the Yacht Club and dinner He's a qualified Polynesian hiking guide who's knowledgeable, passionate and humorous. Papa's intention was to motivate 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 ! with artifacts 2000 years old, which he had unearthed. 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. the Bora Bora Valley of the Kings area because the Mount Otemanu is located in Bora Bora and is the highest point. The best part? No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. 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. Located in the Afareaitu Valley, the trail to the Afareaitu Waterfall is relatively short and has many points of interest along the way. worked in the jungle, and Tahitian people didn't go into Tahiti is the most developed and populous island in French Polynesia, also known as The Islands of Tahiti. He planned to Hiking Mount Otemanu at Le Meridien Bora Bora offers visitors the opportunity to make a physical and mental commitment to this difficult trek. strenuous activity in dry weather or the unmaintained trail will be muddy and slippery. This trail has a total distance of 30.6 kilometers and can take anywhere from 8 to 9 hours to complete. A local guide 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. Archaeology: visit ancient temples (the marae) that is still sacred places and walk to the tomb of ancient kings. Due to the mountains crumbly vertical cliffs, it is not possible to gain access to the summit further. 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's an example for us all. 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! Seen as a form of paganism by the missionaries the cutting of hair was soon encouraged! maxi (Adults or Child from 10 y.o), minimum 10 y.o requested! In the low season, when Bora Bora is quiet, he continues his research. Budget travelers should aim to spend no more than $500 per person on a week-long stay in Bora Bora. read Azdine's story of finding Paradise. You will be rewarded at the end with spectacular views, but there are still some steep cliffs to climb. A local guide is very useful. The highlight of this hike is, well everything. research. Find the bliss of an overwater bungalow closer to home: the Caribbean's most worthy alternatives. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. In 2003, with his life in a backpack and 20,000XPF, a young Frenchman, whose parents had immigrated from Morocco, set out to However, its best to ask around when you get there as nothing is signposted. This kind of activity is recommended for guests in very good physical condition. See. Add these best free (and nearly free!) The temperature at sea is 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Adventure or leisure? . of us at Bora Bora Island guide love to 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). A Certified Tahiti Specialist can help you uncover hidden gems. archeological sites. 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. Mount Otemanu is one of two peaks on Bora Bora (along with Mt. This is how it looked in 2008/2009 : Here is how it looked when we arrived yesterday 23rd April, 2014: It is a story of reckless ignorance, of destruction & of greed. island's main village was originally located there. For 15 years Azdine dreamed of coming to French Polynesia. 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). You hike through fertile valleys amongst lush tropical 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. Hikers cant physically get to the very top of the mountain's 727 meters (2385ft) as the towering peaks are both crumbly and vertical. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. Pahia). Are there 2 bedroom overwater or beach bungalows? 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. have fun, but we also have to keep the site up and running! 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. outdated. Hikers can see all the way over to the islands of Tahaa and Raiatea across the deep blue sea. Located near Papeete, the Fautaua Valley trail offers a relatively easy hike through a forest of lush, tropical vegetation. Climbing Mt. 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. However, the rainy season typically runs from November to April, so visitors should avoid hiking in the Valley of Kings during this time. They could be embalmed & then stood upright in-between the roots of the tree. We are interested in visiting the archaeological site of the Valley of Kings. Mt Pahia Climb of 6 hours is for the very fit who don't suffer from vertigo. Because the trail passes through private property, it is not possible to go without a guide. The vibrant city of Papeete blends traditional and modern Polynesian . However if beaches are your priority, then Fiji would be the better choice. Many signs of ancient life have been uncovered in Pathways go through ancient villages, ceremonial sites, sacred spots, and through trees bearing coconuts and wild fruits. this same view across to the Bora Bora Valley of the 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. is an experience unlike any other. And boy, it's tough to argue with that perception when you see this magical place in the flesh. The crumbly vertical cliffs of the towering peak prevent further ascent as they do not hold clamps. 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. You will learn the virtues of medicinal plants as well as tales & legends of Bora Bora with your ethnobotanist guide. Bora Bora is exclusive and expensive because it is very hard to get to. The Bora Bora Loop, as you approach the entire main island, follows a coastal road. Azdine, the guide, will share information about geology, ancestral plants, medicine and sacred trees. Beyond the turquoise lagoon and glistening bays lie emerald peaks, fragrant pineapple fields, and lush valleys just waiting to be explored. Those who plan on going on a hike in flip flops and swimsuits should avoid going. The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. Re: Valley of the Kings trailhead. Located east of Papeete, the Faananu Valley is renowned for its rich and diverse endemic vegetation. 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. Tickets, which cost 100 Egyptian pounds (approximately $11 . Fall in love with lush, tropical shores and experience Mana. The island of Bora Bora is located in the Pacific Ocean and is known for its lush vegetation and warm waters. views from various vantage points. 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. 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. Taste. The Mount Otemanu hike is a four-kilometer trail that is moderate in terms of difficulty. Here you can find the only hike in Tahiti that allows access to the Mt. Small cruise ships must travel slowly through the narrow pass in the lagoon. Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and Raiatea are the most visited islands. Breathtaking view point: Climb up to the edge to enjoy a panoramic view over the lagoon of Bora and the neighbour islands of Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine and Maupiti. Copyright 2011 - 2023 BoraBoraIslandGuide.com. Tel. Orohena volcanic crater. French expat and founder of Polynesian Island Tours Azdine Oualid leads tours to the Valley of the Kings, a marae . Get a life instead! Home FAQ When To Hike In The Valley Of Kings Bora Bora. Some say that the panoramic views from the summit are some of the best in the world. 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". 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. His outdoor shower hangs from a tree in his pretty garden. He lives in a modest, immaculate home, near the Kaina Hut, The lava tubes, hidden pools, and waterfalls are well worth the effort. What is the number 1 island in the world? Bora Bora Island Guide can devote the time to providing you want a phenomenal day out exploring the inner island on foot. 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. 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 . Direct payment at the pension. The island is small and there isnt all that much to see. He hadn't become When it comes to planning your South Pacific Island trip, there are many things to consider.