Page 168 - Pacifia Paradises - 2020

BORA BORA

The warm shallow water of Bora Bora’s majestic lagoon A boat trip around the lagoon provides endless opportunities to
is world famous for its unspoiled beauty. Pristine white snorkel and explore small motus on the way, and arrive in time to
sand beaches line the main island and its motus (islets), watch the regular feeding of sharks only a few metres away. Deep-
providing the perfect backdrop for sun-loving travellers. sea fishing off the sheltered waters of Bora Bora offers the chance to
catch marlin, yellowfin, tuna, sailfish, wahoo and mahi mahi.
Bora Bora lies 240 kilometres northwest of Tahiti in the Leeward
Society Islands and impresses from the moment it comes into view Bora Bora is dotted with several maraes, temples of the ancient
on the short 50–minute flight from Tahiti. An exhilarating landing on Polynesian religion. The most important marae is Marae Marotetini
a nearby motu emphasises the height of the island’s towering peak on the point west of Farepiti wharf, beyond a huge banyan tree. There
as well as the stunning array of greens and blues that make up Bora is only one navigable pass on Bora Bora. It faces the principal village
Bora’s famed lagoon. A short ride in a boat launch is all it takes from of Vaitape. A partially paved road circles the island passing colourful
the airport on Motu Mute to Vaitape Village on the main island. Local villages, archaeological sites, army bunkers and cannons remaining
transport options include a local bus, known as Le Truck, or minivans from World War II when 5000 American GIs arrived to defend the
to the numerous accommodation options available on Tahiti’s most island.
developed island. The boutiques in many of the hotels are well stocked with suntan
lotion, film, T-shirts, pareus, souvenirs and black pearls for that retail
Resorts, hotels, pensions and camping grounds offer a host of tours
and activities to keep visitors entertained, from outrigger speed canoe fix.
excursions and scuba diving, to picnics on motus, catamaran cruising
and barbecue parties. Travellers can opt to browse local boutiques or
discover the island’s secrets independently on foot.

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