Bora Bora

Dominating the island are majestic Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, two towering volcanic peaks of black rock that jut out of the center of the emerald-green island. Often draped in white clouds, these landmarks take on mysterious and mythical qualities. With its two dominating peaks and brilliant turquoise lagoon, Bora Bora offers the most dramatic beauty of any island in French Polynesia.

Among the most unforgettable experiences of a Bora Bora visit is the launch transfer from the airport. The airport is built on a palm fringed motu approximately 20 minutes by motor launch from the main village of Vaitape. The ride across the calm translucent waters of the lagoon is like entering a fairyland. From Vaitape Village “Le Truck” or mini-van transports you to the hotel. The road which circles the island will take you to your hotel past a landscape of vibrant, almost surreal, colors.

Bora Bora is an island that most people have heard about, but not many people know that it is part of French Polynesia. It is one of the leeward islands and is located about 150 miles northwest of Tahiti. Just 18 miles around, Bora Bora is the ideal South Pacific island. Hibiscus line the hills and valleys, and the underwater world is a kaleidoscopic of fish flowing through prismatic turquoise water with sun rays dancing on magnificently sculpted coral.

Bora Bora Geography

Bora Bora is situated 155 miles to the northeast of Tahiti (at latitude 16o 30’ south and longitude 151o 45’ west). Bora Bora was formed around seven million years ago.

Of volcanic origin, the composition is essentially a main island about six miles long by 2 ½ miles wide, with a central mountain chain dominated by the summits of Mount Otemanu (2,384 ft.) and the double peaked Mount Pahia (2,030 ft.)

Separated from the principle island by a deep lagoon, is the small island of Toopua and the islet of Toopua Iti. The three islands are the eroded remnants of the slopes of a crater, enclosing the central part of an ancient volcano.

The coast of the main island is deeply jagged and bordered by a fringing reef that disappears in the southern part to give way to the magnificent white sand beaches of Taahana and Matira.

 Bora Bora Tourist Information And Visitors Bureau

P.O. BOX 144 Vaitape – Bora Bora
Tel./Fax. (689) 67. 76. 36
Located on the boat dock at Vaitape, near the Air Tahiti office

Transportation

Direct flights from Tahiti’s Faaa Airport to Bora Bora take 45 minutes. Many flights to Bora Bora also make stops in Moorea, Huahine and Raiatea. Ferry transportation is available but not reliable or recommended for vacations or honeymooners.

The best way to get around the island, which you can tour in a day, is by moped or bicycle, but don’t leave without taking a three-hour jeep safari tour.

Rental Car – Europcar Bora Bora

Next to Vaitape Quay
P.O. BOX 246 Vaitape – BORA BORA
Tel. (689) 67. 70. 03 / 67. 70. 15
Fax. (689) 67. 79. 95