7 Best Hikes in Bora Bora
Explore Bora Bora’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
The best hikes in the lush and breathtaking Bora Bora scale the central peaks of Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, relics of an extinct volcano. This French Polynesian Island boasts a mountainous landscape with trails suitable for all skill and fitness levels. If you’re heading for the mountain trails, pack your hiking boots, as those trails are steep and challenging. They are also unmarked and notoriously difficult to find, so we recommend that you hire a local guide.
For easier terrain that’s equally picturesque, stick to the coastline. Along the shore you’ll have access to paved trails and it’s a great way to see the entirety of the island. And photographing the iridescent turquoise water never gets old.
1. Valley of the Kings
Home to ghost houses where ancient nobility were buried
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura, História
Hiking the Valley of the Kings in Bora Bora is not only stunning but can also be considered a spiritual journey as it’s where the island’s early history is concentrated. Along your way through lush jungle, you’ll also come across the ruins of ancient villages and the burial site of kings.
The hike takes approximately 3 hours to accomplish and is rated moderately difficult. Hiking with a guide, you’ll learn all about the medicinal properties of the forest plants and the importance they hold in Tahitian culture. The highlight of the hike is the panoramic overlook of the turquoise Bora Bora lagoon and neighbouring islands.
Localização: G776+FM, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Valley of the Kings
2. Mount Pahia
A challenging hike with rewarding views
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
A short but tough hike, reaching the top of Mount Pahia will give you some of the best views in Bora Bora. From the peak you can see the shades of blue mixing in the lagoon just beyond the rolling hills of the jungle below. You can find the trailhead near the fire station in Vaitape.
The reason the 3.2-km out-and-back hike is considered challenging is that it requires some scrambling. Ropes are stationed at 5 different points to help you pull yourself up. Note that if you’re starting your hike from the main road that will extend the length of the hike by quite a bit, so bring plenty of water.
Localização: G725+3MJ, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Mount Pahia
3. Mount Otemanu
This jagged peak defines the island
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura, Viagens alternativas
Bora Bora’s central mountain, Mount Otemanu, towers over the island at more than 700 metres high. When visiting the island, you’ll want to get a picture from the coast featuring the iconic peak, but hiking to the top and seeing the splendid view from above is also worthwhile. Stand in the mouth of the Mount Otemanu cave and you can see all the way to Taha’a.
The hike is difficult, and even experienced hikers should hire a guide since the trail can be hard to find. Bring plenty of water and wear sensible hiking shoes. Though it is rigorous, you’ll be glad you did it when you’re staring up at the signature atolls and down at the dreamy coastline.
Localização: F7X8+7X3, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Mount Otemanu
4. Matu Pupu
For panoramic views of the whole island
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
From the top of Mount Mata Pupu, you can see both sides of Bora Bora’s main island. The far-reaching view is what makes this challenging hike one of the best in Bora Bora. The 2.5-km out-and-back trail should only take about an hour to traverse but can become quite steep towards the top.
It’s best to hike Mata Pupu on a dry day as rain can make the steep portions of the trail treacherous. Plan to wear sturdy, close-toed shoes and make use of the ropes on the trail to help you out. Our biggest tip? Don’t forget a camera. You’ll want to remember that view forever.
Localização: F7MF+44, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Matu Pupu
5. Point Fitiuu Cannons
Where you’ll find Hiro’s Finger, a unique geologic feature
Ideal para: Casais, História, Foto
Many visitors to Bora Bora enjoy the scavenger hunt of finding the forgotten cannons left behind after World War II such as the 2 cannons in Point Fitiuu. This hike takes you to the eastern side of the island. It’s one of the best hikes for those looking for leisure mixed with panoramic views.
This easy trail is just over 1 km in length, the perfect distance for bringing a picnic lunch. Along the way you’ll see both cannons as well as a picture-perfect view of Mt Otemanu. It’s worth noting that the trail crosses through private land, so you’ll need to ask permission to cross through, or go with a guide who will secure permission in advance.
Localização: G75M+RR5 Fiti’u’u, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Point Fitiuu Cannons
6. Farepiti Cannons
A glimpse of World War II history
Ideal para: História, Aventura
Go just past the cargo vessel quay in Farepiti and you’ll find the trailhead that takes you to the Farepiti Cannons. Eight cannons in total were left behind by the US Forces after the war ended, though only 4 are publicly accessible. On this Farepiti trail, you’ll get to see 2 of them.
One reason the cannon trail is one of the best hikes in Bora Bora is because they are located at key lookout stations. A prime lookout for a soldier also means clear, stunning views for tourists today. The hike to each spot is relatively short but can be steep. Take a little rest at each and admire the views of Mt. Otemanu, Mt. Pahia and Mothu Ahuna.
Localização: Nūnu’e, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Farepiti Cannons
7. Bora Bora Loop
Circle Island Road, well, circles the island
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding all-day hike, the Bora Bora Loop is for you. This 32-km trail takes you around the entire island. Do it in 1 long day or bring backpacking gear to split it up into a 2- or 3-day adventure. You can either camp or stay at hotels along the way since you’ll never be too far from town.
The Bora Bora Loop follows the coastal road. It is paved and open year-round regardless of weather and it’s also possible to cycle it. Best of all, when you leave Bora Bora, you can be content in the knowledge that you saw it all.
Localização: Route 101, Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora Loop
Este artigo inclui opiniões da equipe editorial dos Go Guides. A Hoteis.com remunera os autores dos textos publicados neste site, o que pode incluir custos de viagens e outras despesas.