French Polynesia, usually referred to as Tahiti, is a collection of islands in the South Pacific. The island of Bora Bora is the most visited place in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is a popular tourism destination because of its clean waters, lush greenery, and over-the-water bungalows. We shall examine five important topics associated with visiting French Polynesia’s Bora Bora in this article.
How to Get There
The primary international airport in French Polynesia, which is in the South Pacific Ocean, is in Papeete, Tahiti. You must first take a flight to Papeete before taking a domestic flight or ferry to the island of Bora Bora. There are multiple flights each day from Papeete to Bora Bora, and the flight takes around 45 minutes. There is also the ferry option, however it takes around 3 hours.
It’s crucial to take the price and time of each option into account when making your travel arrangements. The domestic flight is usually speedier and more expensive than the boat. For those who want to enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the islands while traveling, the ferry is a fantastic choice. Whatever route you decide to take, be sure to reserve your tickets well enough in advance because, during the busiest travel times, flights and ferries can sell out very rapidly.
Another thing to bear in mind is that you will have to pay additional taxes on your flight tickets once you arrive in French Polynesia. Because these taxes might be rather significant, it’s crucial to account for them in your spending plan. Furthermore, it’s crucial to keep in mind that domestic flights only run during the daytime, so if you arrive on a late-night trip, you’ll need to stay the night in Papeete before boarding the following flight to Bora Bora.
Where to Stay
Luxury resorts and floating bungalows are prominent features of Bora Bora. These bungalows, which are perched above a lagoon, provide breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and ocean. Beachfront bungalows and villas are also available at many of the island’s resorts. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, and St. Regis Bora Bora Resort are a few well-known hotels.
It’s crucial to take the resort’s location, amenities, and price into account while selecting one. While some resorts are on the main island, others are spread out among the tiny motus (islets) that surround it. Although they can cost more, the motus provide a more quiet and intimate experience. Additionally, a lot of resorts provide all-inclusive packages, which are a wonderful choice for individuals on a budget because they include meals, drinks, and activities.
It’s also crucial to keep in mind that many of the resorts on Bora Bora cater to families as well as couples. Many resorts include amenities like kids’ clubs and babysitting in addition to family-friendly activities like kayaking and snorkeling. Even family-friendly over-the-water bungalows that can host numerous guests are available at some resorts.
What to Do
Outdoor pursuits including snorkeling, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding are very popular in Bora Bora. A great diversity of marine life, including vibrant tropical fish, rays, and sharks, call the lagoon’s clean waters home. Numerous resorts on the island provide equipment rental along with snorkeling and diving excursions. Another well-liked sport is stand-up paddleboarding, which is a terrific way to explore the lagoon and the little motus that surround the main island.
The resorts on the island provide various spa services and yoga lessons for those seeking a more tranquil activity. Traditional Polynesian massages as well as more modern procedures like facials and manicures are frequently offered as spa treatments. Yoga sessions are frequently done outside and provide stunning views of the lagoon and other islands.
Several tour companies on the island provide trips to learn about the local culture and history in addition to the activities provided by the resorts. Visits to traditional Polynesian communities, where you may learn about the local customs and traditions and take in traditional dances and ceremonies, are among the most well-liked excursions. A 4×4 trip of the island is another well-liked excursion. This tour brings you to the most secluded and magnificent regions of the island, where you can witness breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Bora Bora also provides the possibility to partake in kitesurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing for people who are interested in adventure sports. These excursions, which are provided by local businesses, are a fantastic way to see the island in a new light.
When to Go
The dry season, which lasts from May to October, is the ideal time to visit Bora Bora. There is less likelihood of rain during this time, and the weather is pleasant and sunny. It is best to plan your trip far in advance, as it is also the busiest season of the year. It’s also a great time to go during the wet season, which lasts from November to April, but you should be ready for rain and higher humidity.
The island can become incredibly lush and green during the rainy season, and the waterfalls become more active. If you’re looking for a more affordable choice, this is also a fantastic time to travel because costs for lodging and flights are typically lower during this time. It’s crucial to keep in mind that certain sports, including diving and snorkeling, can be restricted at this time owing to the weather.
Tips for Travelers
It’s crucial to be ready for the high cost of living in Bora Bora before visiting. It is necessary to budget appropriately because the costs of meals, lodging, and activities can be fairly costly. It’s also crucial to keep in mind that several of the sports, including diving and snorkeling, call for a certain degree of physical fitness. Prior to making your travel arrangements, be sure to review the activity requirements.
It’s also critical to understand the island’s cultural practices, such as taking off your shoes before entering a home or shrine. In order to stay hydrated in the hot heat, it’s also advised to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Another piece of advice for visitors is to travel light because storage space is at a premium at many of the island’s resorts. Many of the resorts also include laundry facilities, allowing you to bring fewer items of clothing and wash them while you are there.
Last but not least, it’s significant to remember that French Polynesia is a French overseas territory, meaning that French is the official language. However, English is also a common language, so interacting with residents and resort employees shouldn’t be a problem.
In conclusion, Bora Bora is a tropical paradise with pristine oceans, lush landscapes, and opulent hotels that welcomes guests. It’s the ideal location for individuals who wish to unwind and relax with its abundance of outdoor activities, spa services, and yoga courses. Planning ahead and setting aside money for expenses is essential for making the most of your trip. You should also respect the local way of life and traditions. Your trip to Bora Bora will be one to remember with a little forward planning.
Our Top FAQ's
The best way to get to Bora Bora from Papeete is by domestic flight. The flight takes around 45 minutes, and there are several flights per day. Alternatively, you can take a ferry, which takes around 3 hours.
Bora Bora is known for its luxurious resorts and over-the-water bungalows. These bungalows are built on stilts over the lagoon and offer stunning views of the water and surrounding islands. Many of the resorts on the island also offer beachfront bungalows and villas.
Popular activities on Bora Bora include snorkeling, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding in the crystal clear waters of the lagoon. Many of the resorts also offer spa treatments and yoga classes, as well as traditional Polynesian cultural excursions and adventure sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and kitesurfing.
The best time to visit Bora Bora is between May and October, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less chance of rain. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so it is best to book your trip well in advance. The wet season, which runs from November to April, is also a good time to visit, but it is important to be prepared for rain and higher humidity.