French Polynesia’s Society Islands contain the tiny island of Bora Bora. It is a well-liked vacation spot for newlyweds and affluent vacationers because of its beautiful seas, tropical scenery, and overwater villas. Here are five fascinating details about this lovely island.
Bora Bora was formed by volcanic activity
French Polynesia’s Society Islands are home to the island of Bora Bora. About three million years ago, volcanic activity created it. Mount Otemanu, the central summit of the island, is a 727-meter-high remains of an extinct volcano. The lagoon that surrounds the island was formerly the caldera, or crater, of the island. This lagoon is a well-liked location for snorkeling and diving since it is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, and rays. Visitors can take a boat excursion to explore the lagoon and even stop at any of the nearby small islets, including the well-known Motu Tapu.
The island’s black sand beaches were also produced by the same volcanic activity that developed Bora Bora. These beaches are made of volcanic rocks and pebbles that have washed up on the shore after being crushed by the sea. A wonderfully amazing scene is created by the way the black sand contrasts so brilliantly with the emerald green foliage and the clear blue waters. Visitors have a choice of relaxing on the black sand beaches or hiking Mount Otemanu for sweeping views of the island and lagoon.
The island was once a haven for pirates
Bora Bora was well-known as a sanctuary for pirates and whalers in the 18th and 19th centuries. These maritime crooks found the island’s thick foliage and deep bays to be the perfect hiding places. The island served as their base from which to attack passing ships and sell the looted goods.
To combat piracy, the French acquired the island in 1843 and set up a penal colony. In order to defend the island from subsequent assaults, they also constructed the Fort de France military fortification. Instead of being a hotspot for crime, the island is now renowned for its calmness and quiet. The ruins of Fort de France, which is now a historical monument, can still be seen by visitors who want to learn more about the island’s pirate history.
The island has a rich Polynesian culture
The rich Polynesian culture that has been passed down from generation to generation may be found at Bora Bora. The Maohi, the locals of the island, have a strong bond with the land and water. They continue to engage in traditional practices like tatau, or tattooing, which plays a significant role in defining their cultural identity. A spiritual ceremony known as the tatau is performed to commemorate significant life milestones like the passage from childhood to adulthood. The tatau’s designs are frequently symbolic and have special value for the person getting them.
The island’s cultural attractions, such as the Bora Bora Pearl Museum, which displays the island’s pearl farming industry and the ancient methods used to produce and harvest pearls, are excellent places for tourists to learn about the island’s rich history and culture. Additionally, there is the Marae, a traditional Polynesian temple where the Maohi would hold religious rituals. A traditional dance performance, which is a vibrant and vivacious display showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage, is another option for tourists.
Bora Bora is home to a variety of wildlife
A large diversity of fauna, including rare and endangered species, can be found in Bora Bora. Numerous species, including the imperiled Polynesian ground dove and the black-naped fruit dove, have a home on the island’s luxuriant flora. Only a few islands in the region are home to these special birds, which are only found in French Polynesia. To see these and other bird species in their native habitat, tourists can go on a guided birding excursion.
Sharks, rays, and a variety of vibrant fish are among the aquatic animals that call Bora Bora home. Visitors can snorkel or dive in the lagoon to get up up and personal with these critters. The green sea turtle, a protected species, is also found on the island. A guided tour is available for guests to see the turtles in their natural setting and learn more about the conservation efforts being made to safeguard them.
Bora Bora is a popular destination for luxury travel
Luxury resorts in Bora Bora are well-known for providing visitors with a very opulent and intimate experience. The resorts on the island are situated on their own exclusive motus (islets), and they include overwater bungalows, exclusive beaches, and a variety of facilities. As a result of the resorts’ thoughtful design, they provide visitors with a sense of privacy and seclusion, making them the ideal hideaway for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway.
The resorts on the island also provide a variety of activities that let guests discover the island’s natural beauty and marine life, such snorkeling, diving, and water sports. To get a bird’s eye view of the island, visitors can also embark on a sunset cruise, go island hopping, or take a helicopter tour.
To sum up, Bora Bora is a genuinely unique location that presents tourists with a singular blend of stunning natural scenery, a vibrant culture, and luxurious travel. Bora Bora has something to offer everyone, whether you want to explore the island’s volcanic scenery, discover its history as a pirate stronghold, or just unwind in an opulent environment. It’s hardly surprising that Bora Bora is regarded as one of the most stunning and unusual locations in the world given its clean waters, rich flora, and plethora of species.
Our Top FAQ's
Bora Bora has a rich history of piracy, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Pirates were attracted to the island because of its location, which provided a safe haven for their ships and a source of fresh water and food.
Bora Bora offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including snorkeling, diving, water sports, island hopping, and helicopter tours. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise, and explore the island’s natural beauty and marine life.
Bora Bora’s volcanic landscapes are significant because they provide a unique and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of plant and animal life. The island’s volcanic origins also give it a unique and dramatic landscape that is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Bora Bora offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. The island’s luxury resorts are located on private motus and offer overwater bungalows, private beaches, and a wide range of activities and amenities.