Bora Bora, Polynesia: where is it, when to go and what to see

Bora Bora is a magnificent Polynesian resort. This unique place is considered by many to be a true natural paradise with unique and unforgettable beauty. Millions of people year after year decide to spend their holidays in Bora Bora, finding peace, relaxation and serenity. Indeed, there are those who say that after visiting Bora Bora it was really difficult to return to the tiring and stressful daily routine. It seems, therefore, that this place has a magical atmosphere. So, let's take a closer look at the exceptional features of Bora Bora, trying to understand where it is, when to go and what to see!

Informed travel: useful info

• Inhabitants: 8,800

• Capital: Vaitape

• Languages: French, Thai

• Local currency: Franc CFP (€1.00=120 f CFP)

• Climate: tropical, average temperatures approaching 28 C°

• Time zone: GMT-10 (-12h compared to Italy)

• Vaccinations: no vaccination required

• Entry requirements: passport with residual validity of at least 3 months (6 months in case of stopover in USA), return ticket, ESTA in case of stopover in USA

• Distance from Italy: approx. 17,000 km (26-28 flight hours)

Location

Bora Bora is geographically and organisationally part of French Polynesia. This means that it is located in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean, practically in the middle between Australia and South America. Compared to the rest of the islands that are part of this overseas collectivity, Bora Bora is located in the north-west. It is about 280 km from Tahiti, which can be reached in a one-hour flight.
It must be remembered, however, that politically, Bora Bora belongs to France.

How to get there

• FromMilan or Rome: the best way is to leave from Fiumicino with Air Tahiti, which has a 2-hour technical stopover in Los Angeles. Once in Tahiti, internal flight with Air Tahiti Nui from Papeete to Bora Bora. In total, the expected travel time can range from 26 to 28 hours, but can easily go up to 40 hours if the combinations include a few more stopovers. The internal flight from Tahiti to Bora Bora, on the other hand, takes about 1 hour.
  Compare flights from Rome or Milan - from €1,970.00

• From the main European capitals: it can be useful to leave from Paris, choosing the scheduled airline Air France. In this case, travel time is reduced and you can arrive at your destination in around 25 hours.
  Compare flights to Bora Bora - from €1,970.00

When to go? Info on climate and best time

• Climate: tropical. Generally, the average is 28°. The average sea temperature is close to 30°. The estimated annual precipitation is 116 days / 1,935 mm.

• Best period: during the so-called'Polynesian winter', which begins in May and ends in October. During this period the temperatures are warm but not sultry and annoying rainfall is avoided.

• Period to avoid: November to April, also known as Polynesian summer. During this period the rains increase and the humidity becomes unbearable.

• Tips: definitely pack swimwear and masks or snorkelling accessories as well as light, summer clothes. Also recommend comfortable footwear and maybe some good books to read while relaxing on the beach.

10 things to see: beaches and places of interest

1. Mount Otemanu: a mountain towering over the island, it is considered the symbol of the island. A wonderful place to try rock climbing and nature excursions.

2. Playa Matira: enchanting beach considered one of the best on the island. The sand is beautiful and white. The water here is crystal-clear and the scenery is picture-perfect. What more do you want from life?

3. Mount Pahia: a small fishing village that fully identifies the Polynesian way of life. When visiting the small town, you will feel the affection and serenity of the villagers.

4. Bora Bora Lagoonarium: a unique experience that you absolutely must try if you love snorkelling. You will have the chance to come face to face with colourful fish and other fascinating sea creatures!

5. Bora Bora Turtle Centre: a treatment centre for injured or dying turtles found at sea. You will be in close contact with these animals and interact peacefully with them.

6. Leopard Rays Tranch: an enchanting excursion and activity that allows you to swim with the formidable Manta rays. This takes place in a crystal-clear sea, where it is possible to observe the bottom even without diving.

7. Paroisse Saint-Pierre Celestine: parish where Catholic mass is celebrated in both Tahitian and French.

8. Vaitape: the most crowded centre on Bora Bora. Despite the tranquillity of the island, Vaitape sometimes has an influx of people that would make a metropolis envious. The real beating heart of the resort.

9. Art du Pacifique: an art gallery showing various works by local artists. Inside, you can also admire handicrafts typical of the island, which feature unusual and unusual shapes.

10. Bora Bora Lagoon: there is a fascinating lagoon in the centre of Bora Bora. Exploring it through the different tours is an absolute must. You might want to repeat the experience several times before leaving the island for good.

What to do in Bora Bora: excursions and tours

How much does a holiday on Bora Bora cost? Prices, offers and tips

A holiday in Bora Bora is by no means cheap. After all, it is one of the most expensive locations in the world. Few people can afford a long stay here, especially during the high season, defined as the Polynesian winter. During this period, the climate on the island improves and rainfall is practically non-existent. However, the price of accommodation, services and excursions rises exponentially. In fact, if one considers only the flight + hotel package, the cost reaches €6,000 per person.

Living costs are also particularly high, especially in the culinary sphere. In fact, one must bear in mind that Bora Bora's cuisine is strongly influenced by French cuisine, one of the most refined and expensive in the world. For this reason, if you do not have a large budget at your disposal, the advice is to eat at certain places that offer local snacks at reasonable prices. Alternatively, you can go to some local supermarkets in the vicinity of Vaitape that offer various products to cook at home at reasonable prices.

As far as purchases such as souvenirs are concerned, the prices are in the middle/high range. However, when visiting the island, it is impossible not to be won over by the black pearls, the main product of the local traders. Practically everyone on the island sells this pearl to tourists, which is regarded as a symbol of good fortune and eternal prosperity. Impossible not to buy such a souvenir, truly a product of rare beauty!

• Where to stay: Hotels, accommodation and resorts from €130.00 per room - see offers

• Low cost flights: from €1,970.00 - look at the offers

• Flight + hotel: return flight + 15 days from €2,826.00 per person - look at the offers

Images and videos of Bora Bora

Resorts and beachfront accommodation in Bora Bora

Leopard Rays Tranch, swimming with Manta rays

Sharks and other fish in Bora Bora

Transparent seabed in Bora Bora

View of Bora Bora from above

View from an internal flight in Bora Bora

Manta rays in the Lagoonarium of Bora Bora

Fish in the transparent waters of Bora Bora

View of Mount Otemanu and the seaside resorts

Mount Pahia seen from Bora Bora Lagoon