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Bora Bora
Experience Bora Bora, the ultimate luxury escape with turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush volcanic peaks. Relax on pristine beaches, explore coral reefs, and enjoy one of the best Polynesian travel destinations.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 10. October
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature
Expenses
Over 200€
Temperature
Over 30°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Oceania
Currency
CFP franc
Languages
Tahitian, French
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is typically warm and sunny with lower humidity, making it ideal for enjoying the island’s stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
- May to October: Offers pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, and calm seas, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. This period is also less humid and has fewer mosquitoes.
The rainy season, from November to April, brings higher humidity and more frequent showers. Although the island is still beautiful and less crowded during these months, you may experience occasional storms and higher humidity.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-October (Dry Season)
Budget Vacation ($150-250/day)
Accommodation: $70-150/night (budget guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $30-50/day (local eateries, food trucks).
Activities: $20-40/day (beach activities, sightseeing).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($300-500/day)
Accommodation: $150-300/night (mid-range hotels, beachfront bungalows).
Food: $40-80/day (local restaurants, resort dining).
Activities: $40-80/day (snorkeling, boat tours).
Transportation: $20-40/day (private transport, bike rentals).
Other Costs: $20-30/day (luxury activities, excursions).
Luxury Vacation ($800+/day)
Accommodation: $400+/night (luxury overwater bungalows).
Food: $100+/day (fine dining, exclusive resort restaurants).
Activities: $100+/day (private yacht tours, private diving experiences).
Transportation: $50+/day (private boats, luxury transfers).
Other Costs: $30+/day (luxury shopping, spa treatments).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Rainy Season)
Budget Vacation ($100-150/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (budget hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $20-30/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $10-20/day (beach, hiking).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal extras).
Mid-Range Vacation ($200-350/day)
Accommodation: $100-200/night (mid-range bungalows, Airbnbs).
Food: $30-50/day (local food, resort dining).
Activities: $30-50/day (boat tours, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $15-25/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (shopping, extras).
Luxury Vacation ($500+/day)
Accommodation: $200+/night (luxury resorts, overwater bungalows).
Food: $50+/day (gourmet dining).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, underwater diving).
Transportation: $25+/day (private boats, luxury transfers).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
Bora Bora is a small island in French Polynesia and does not have multiple cities. The main settlement on the island is:
1. Vaitape
- The largest town and the main hub of Bora Bora, Vaitape is known for its shopping, dining, and local markets. It provides access to various attractions and is the primary point of entry for visitors to the island.
Bora Bora
Islands
Bora Bora is itself an island, but it is part of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, which include several notable neighboring islets:
1. Motu Mute
- Located near Bora Bora's main island, Motu Mute is known for its luxury resorts and beautiful beaches. It is a popular spot for visitors looking for high-end accommodations.
2. Motu Tapu
- This small, uninhabited islet is known for its stunning white sand beaches and clear waters. It is often visited by boat tours for its scenic beauty.
3. Motu Piti Aau
- Located on the eastern side of Bora Bora, this islet is known for its luxury resorts and serene beaches. It is a popular destination for relaxation and water activities.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Mount Otemanu
- The highest peak on Bora Bora, Mount Otemanu is an extinct volcano that rises dramatically from the center of the island. Hiking or taking a 4x4 tour around its base offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lagoon and the island’s lush interior. The summit itself is difficult to reach, but exploring the surrounding area is a must.
2. Lagoon of Bora Bora
- The island’s lagoon is famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and rich marine life. Snorkeling and diving here are unforgettable experiences, where you can swim among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, rays, and even reef sharks. The lagoon is also ideal for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and boat tours.
3. Matira Beach
- Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Matira Beach offers powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a romantic sunset. The beach is public, making it accessible to everyone.
4. Coral Gardens
- Located near the barrier reef, the Coral Gardens are an underwater paradise for snorkelers. The area is teeming with marine life, including vibrant coral formations, tropical fish, and sometimes even turtles. Guided snorkeling tours are available for those who want to explore this underwater wonderland.
5. Shark and Ray Feeding
- A popular excursion in Bora Bora is the shark and ray feeding experience. You can take a boat tour to shallow waters where you’ll have the chance to interact with and feed blacktip reef sharks and stingrays. It’s a thrilling and unique way to get up close with these incredible creatures.
Cultural and Historical Sites
1. Vaitape
- The main town on Bora Bora, Vaitape is where you’ll find most of the island’s shops, restaurants, and local markets. It’s a great place to explore local culture, pick up souvenirs, and enjoy Polynesian cuisine.
2. Marae Temples
- Scattered around the island are ancient Marae, which are traditional Polynesian temples. These sites hold historical and cultural significance, offering insight into the spiritual practices of the island’s original inhabitants. The most notable is Marae Fare Opu, located near the airport.
3. World War II Relics
- During World War II, Bora Bora served as a strategic military base for the United States. You can still find remnants of this period, including bunkers, cannons, and other military installations scattered around the island, particularly in the Matira area.
4. Faanui Bay
- Faanui Bay is a quiet and picturesque area known for its tranquil waters and traditional Polynesian life. It’s a lovely spot to visit to see local homes, gardens, and small churches, giving you a glimpse into the daily life of Bora Bora residents.
Adventure Activities
1. 4x4 Island Tour
- A 4x4 tour around Bora Bora is a great way to see the island’s interior, including its rugged terrain, lush forests, and panoramic viewpoints. These tours often include stops at historical sites, World War II relics, and cultural landmarks.
2. Helicopter Tour
- For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over Bora Bora. The aerial views of the island’s lagoon, coral reefs, and Mount Otemanu are absolutely breathtaking and provide a unique perspective of this tropical paradise.
3. Sailing and Sunset Cruises
- Explore the lagoon and surrounding waters on a sailing trip or a sunset cruise. These excursions offer a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy Bora Bora’s natural beauty, often including stops for snorkeling or a beach picnic.
How to get around
1. Bora Bora’s Water Taxis
- Given Bora Bora’s unique geography with its lagoon and motus (small islands), water taxis are a common and scenic way to travel. They can take you between the main island and surrounding islets or to various resorts.
2. Bicycles
- Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Bora Bora’s main island. It’s a great option for covering shorter distances and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
3. Scooters
- For more flexibility than a bicycle, you can rent a scooter. It’s a convenient way to get around the main island and is well-suited to the island’s relatively small size.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is another option, though it’s less common due to the island’s small size. It provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit more remote parts of the island.
5. Resort Transfers
- Many resorts offer shuttle services or private boat transfers to and from the airport or between different parts of the island. Check with your resort for these services.
6. Taxis
- Taxis are available but less common than other modes of transport. They can be used for short trips around the main island.
Water taxis and bicycles are generally the best options for getting around Bora Bora, with scooters and cars providing additional flexibility if you want to explore more of the island.
What to eat
1. Poisson Cru
- A signature dish of Bora Bora made with fresh raw fish (often tuna or mahi-mahi) marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, mixed with diced vegetables.
2. Mahi Mahi
- A popular local fish often grilled or baked, typically served with tropical fruit salsas or sauces, highlighting the island's fresh seafood.
3. Roulé de Crabe
- Crab rolls made with fresh crab meat, wrapped in rice paper, and served with a dipping sauce, showcasing the island's abundant seafood.
4. Vanilla Crème Brûlée
- A delicious dessert made with rich vanilla custard topped with a caramelized sugar crust, reflecting the island's famous vanilla production.
5. Faraoa
- A traditional Polynesian dish made from taro or breadfruit, often served as a side dish or used in salads, embodying the local ingredients.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Bora Bora Airport (BOB)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €1,500 to €2,500.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: July to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and March.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,500 to $3,000.
- Cheapest Months: January and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and March.
- Peak Prices: July to August.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,800 to $3,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers do not need a visa to enter Bora Bora for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and most EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens from many countries can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply at a French embassy or consulate, as Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as short-stay visas for tourism purposes, typically valid for stays of up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry, but travel insurance is recommended for medical emergencies.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the CFP Franc (XPF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 220V, and plug types C and E (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, with 10% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Orange and Vini. They can be purchased at stores, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Bora Bora, people drive on the right side of the road.