Bora Bora is often called the most beautiful island in the world. Bora Bora is a 50-minute flight and a 10-hour boat trip from Tahiti. This tiny island – just 18 miles in circumference – is encircled by a protective necklace of coral. Lush mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for the indescribable turquoise, lapis and aquamarine of the sheltered lagoon.
270 kilometers northwest of Tahiti, the pearl of the Pacific, Bora Bora, undoubtedly has the world’s most beautiful lagoon. And the lagoon is what you first see when touching down on the airport “motu”. The airstrip that was built by U.S. troops during World War II. The runway is on a motu (small islet), and visitors must travel by boat to reach the main island. It’s no surprise that most of the island’s activities center on the spectacular lagoon.
The popular shark-feeding excursion puts visitors in the water and within safe view of reef sharks as they’re being fed by guides. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the Lagoonarium, a marine exhibit in the lagoon where the adventurous can swim with sting rays, huge sea turtles and reef sharks. For a half-day journey of exploration, nothing beats a Jeep tour through the interior of this wondrous island. Bora Bora is home to world-class resorts and quaint French-inspired restaurants, and is known for its jet-setting celebrity visitors who relax anonymously on its secluded beaches.
Sightseeing on Bora Bora
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Bora Bora’s Lagoon
Where better for water activities than the dazzling lagoon of Bora Bora, a multi-coloured natural swimming pool, reputedly the most beautiful lagoon on earth. In Bora Bora diving, sailing, jet skiing and canoe trips are all must dos... Sunbathe on the white sandy beaches of Matira Point or onthe “motu” (islets) scattered over the crystal waters of the lagoon.
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Marine Museum
Small museum featuring some 40 models of ancient and modern canoes, tuna fi shing boats and Poti Marara; legendary ships such as the Bounty, the Kon Tiki and the Firecrest. Open upon request from Monday to friday. Free admission.
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Vaitape
The wharf of Vaitape is only accessible via the Teavanui Pass, the sole navigable channel on the island. By the side of the wharf is the beautiful islet of Motu Tapu, where F. M urnau’s famous “Tabou” was fi lmed and the great French explorer, PaulÉmile Victor, sought refuge. The road towards the north of the island leads to Farepiti Point, which overlooks the deep waters of Faanui Bay. Its village was a seat of the former reigning royal family, which explains the presence of several “marae” around the bay. The sheltered, more visited coastline starts at the southerly point of Matira, which has one of the most beautiful beaches with a gorgeous, turquoise lagoon. On a hill about an hour’s walk away, old US artillery cannons point out to sea, as if still watching over the area. After reaching Raititi Point, the tour culminates at the majestic Povai Bay, with a spectacular view of Otemanu Peak and the Motu Toopua, home to the legendary “Hiro’s Bell.” Hotels together with sporting and leisure activities are concentrated on the lively section of populated coastline that stretches to Vaitape.
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Old military tracks
The former tracks laid by the military allow 4X4 excursions into the heart of the island. The best-known track leads from Faanui towards Vairau Bay, with a stop on the peak to enjoy the view of neighbouring islands Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti. Also confi ned to the northern part of the island, a track runs from Taihi Point following the ridge in the direction of Mount Popoti (249 m.), recognisable by its distinctive peak.
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The walk to Pahia
The walk to Pahia is rated as rather diffi cult, with a three hour climb and a two-hour descent, Departing from Vaitape, through the orchards and a forest of “mape” (chestnut trees), the trail arrives at the foot of the cliffs. The path then leads through huge expanses of wild orchids and tree ferns towards the fi rst summit. Finally, the ridge reaches the top of Pahia where, according to legend, the god of war slid down the back of a rainbow. From here the panoramic view over the Leeward Islands is breathtaking.
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The walk to Otemanu Peak
The walk to Otemanu Peak starts off from Vairau Bay and involves a two hour climb. The second part, on a rather steep slope where wild goats roam, can be diffi cult due to possible rock fall, after which the trail stops at the impressive entrance to the grotto situated at the foot of Otemanu Peak. A colony of frigate birds nest here and, from inside the grotto, the view of the ocean is stunning.
