Welcome to Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
In this blog post, we’ll cover EVERYTHING you need to know about Mount Otemanu. This guide contains everything for a first-timer’s visit to Mt. Otemanu!
Key Takeaways:
- Mount Otemanu’s Cultural and Historical Significance: Described as “heaven on Earth,” it’s visible from anywhere on the island, symbolizing its central importance.
- Hiking Mount Otemanu: While reaching the very peak of Mount Otemanu is not possible due to safety concerns with loose rocks, guided tours can take you to the ‘top’ of the summit.
- Diverse Activities Around Mount Otemanu: Beyond hiking, Mount Otemanu serves as a hub for a variety of activities, such as lagoon tours and helicopter rides.
Why is Mount Otemanu so famous?
Mount Otemanu is famous for being not only a stunning mountain and volcano, but it is also a symbol of Bora Bora.
The Bora Bora mountain is the highest point of the island, and rises up to a sharp point at 727 meters (2,385 feet) from the surface of a turquoise lagoon. It is just as famous as most of the Society islands, such as Maupiti and Huahine, which are blessed with stunning scenery for taking Instagrammable pictures.
Locals even call Mount Otemanu “HEAVEN ON EARTH,” as it can be seen from every part of the island.
Now that you know that the Bora Bora mountain is an important elevation point on the island, you should also know its role during World War II. The island was chosen to be a United States REFUELING BASE, and it was actually Mount Otemanu that provided a high vantage point to place large cannons and radar equipment for maximum effectiveness.
Can you climb Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora?
YES! You can climb Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora. However, it’s important to note that it is impossible to get to the highest point because of the loose rocks. The ascent to the summit is considered dangerous and is not allowed for safety reasons.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important features of the Mount Otemanu hike:
- Guided Tours MANDATORY: The complexity of the terrain requires the guidance of local experts who know the paths and can ensure the safety of hikers. You can book your guided hike here!
- Duration of the hike: 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace of the group and stops along the way for photos and rest.
- Physical Difficulty: Moderately. the hike involves navigating through uneven terrain, inclines, and sometimes slippery paths, especially after rain. It’s suited for individuals with a fair level of fitness.
- Starting Point: Most hikes begin at the base of the mountain, accessible via a short drive from Vaitape, Bora Bora’s main city. Specific starting points vary depending on the tour operator.
- Ending Point: The hike ends back where you started, with groups often ending at one of the scenic lookout points offering views of the island and its turquoise lagoon.
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- Permits and Permissions: No special permit is required. However, booking through a registered tour operator is necessary for access and guidance.
- Scenic Views: Along the hike, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Bora Bora lagoon and the surrounding islands, making for unforgettable Instagram opportunities.
- Flora and Fauna: The hike also offers a chance to observe the island’s rich biodiversity, including various tropical plants, flowers, and perhaps even sightings of the island’s unique bird species.
- Cultural Sites: Along the way, there are opportunities to visit ancient Polynesian temples, known as Marae, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural history.
- Physical Challenge: While the hike is not to the summit, it still provides a good physical challenge. Based on our fitness level, we would say that the hike is moderately difficult.
How long does it take to climb Mount Otemanu?
Hiking up Mount Otemanu’s lower slopes usually spans between 3 to 4 hours depending on the pace of the group and stops along the way for photos and rest.
Top Activities at Mount Otemanu
Mount Otemanu is not only a hiker’s paradise but also a hub for various other activities. Here are some top activities to consider during your visit to Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora:
- Lagoon Tours: Embark on a boat tour around the lagoon to admire Mount Otemanu from different angles. The turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the greenery of the mountain, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. These tours often include snorkeling stops where you can explore the vibrant marine life.
- Helicopter Tours: For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over Mount Otemanu and Bora Bora. From the air, the full majesty of the mountain and the surrounding lagoon is laid out before you in a breathtaking panorama, giving you a unique perspective on this tropical paradise.
- Jet Ski Adventures: For those seeking a thrill, jet skiing around the island provides an exhilarating way to enjoy the lagoon’s azure waters while admiring the mountain from sea level.
- Cultural Experiences: Delve into the rich Polynesian culture with visits to local communities around Mount Otemanu. Learn about traditional Polynesian crafts, enjoy a local dance performance, or even partake in a traditional Tahitian feast, known as a “Tamaaraa”.
- Photography: Mount Otemanu and its surroundings are a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, the natural beauty of this place provides countless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, vibrant sunsets, and the unique flora and fauna of Bora Bora.
- Visit ancient Polynesian Kings: As it is in the center of the island, it is also an important and sacred place as well for the people who have been living there for many centuries. There are areas on the mountain that contain bodies of the ancient Polynesian Kings. On the southern side, massive circular stone walls of a temple can be seen, which is said to house the king’s spirit.
Is there a volcano in Bora Bora?
Yes, Mount Otemanu, at the heart of Bora Bora, is the remains of an ancient volcano. Rising approximately 727 meters (2,385 feet) above sea level, it is not only a significant landmark but also a symbol of the island’s volcanic origins. This extinct volcano, along with Mount Pahia, forms the remnants of Bora Bora, which is an island built on volcanic activity that occurred approximately seven million years ago.
The Volcanic History of Bora Bora
- Formation: The island of Bora Bora was formed by volcanic activity, with Mount Otemanu being the most visible reminder of its origins. Over millions of years, erosion has shaped the island into what we see today, with the mountain standing as a rugged, imposing centerpiece surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and barrier reef.
- Geological Significance: Mount Otemanu’s geological structure is composed of basalt, a type of volcanic rock, which gives the mountain its distinct dark coloration against the lush greenery. Its jagged peak, which cannot be scaled to the very top due to its loose and crumbly rock, adds to the mystical aura that surrounds it.
- Cultural Impact: For the people of Bora Bora, the volcano and the mountain hold significant cultural and spiritual importance. It has been a constant in the lives of islanders for generations, figuring prominently in local mythology and serving as a spiritual site.
- Tourist Attraction: Beyond its geological and cultural significance, Mount Otemanu is a major tourist attraction. Its breathtaking beauty draws visitors from around the world, making it a staple on the itinerary of anyone visiting Bora Bora. Whether viewed from the land, water, or air, it presents a stunning spectacle and a reminder of nature’s power and beauty.
When was the last time Bora Bora erupted?
Bora Bora’s last volcanic eruption dates back to millions of years ago, making the current geological state of the island a product of long-term volcanic dormancy. The once fiery landscape has since cooled and given way to lush greenery and vibrant ecosystems, both on land and within the surrounding lagoon.
This tranquility has transformed the island into a serene paradise, far removed from its tumultuous volcanic origins.
The remnants of volcanic activity, such as Mount Otemanu, stand today not as threats, but as majestic monuments to the island’s rich geological past.
Is Bora Bora at risk of a tsunami?
Given its location in the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” Bora Bora, like many islands in this area, is theoretically at risk of tsunamis.
This risk stems from the potential for UNDERWATER EARTHQUAKES AND VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS in the Pacific, which can generate massive waves.
However, it’s important to note that the island’s surrounding REEF plays a significant role in reducing the impact of possible tsunamis, acting as a natural barrier that diminishes wave energy before it reaches the shore.
Additionally, the geographic layout, with Mount Otemanu and other elevated areas, provides natural high ground that could offer some degree of protection in the unlikely event of a tsunami. While the risk cannot be completely ruled out, historical data suggests that Bora Bora and its inhabitants have been fortunately spared from significant tsunami damage in recent times. Emergency preparedness and evacuation plans are in place as part of the island’s commitment to the safety of both its residents and numerous visitors.
Bora was not considered particularly vulnerable to the tsunami. No tsunami occurred recently across the region, even though the island is far from the major earthquake zones of the Pacific.
What are the mountains in Bora Bora called?
The primary mountains gracing the landscape of Bora Bora are Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, both of which serve as towering remnants of the island’s volcanic past.
- Mount Otemanu is the taller of the two, reaching an elevation of 727 meters (2,385 feet) above sea level. It’s recognized for its jagged peaks and dark basalt rock, which contrast sharply against the lush tropical greenery and azure waters surrounding it. Otemanu cannot be climbed to its summit due to the fragile nature of its rock, but its base is accessible for guided tours, which offer breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Mount Pahia, slightly shorter than its neighbor, is yet another significant peak on Bora Bora. Its slopes are more accessible, presenting opportunities for challenging hikes that reward adventurers with panoramic views of the island and its surrounding ocean. Pahia stands as a testament to the island’s lush, vibrant environment, hosting a variety of local flora and fauna.
What is the tallest mountain in Bora Bora?
The tallest mountain in Bora Bora is Mount Otemanu, which reaches an impressive elevation of 727 meters (2,385 feet) above sea level.
This peak dominates the island’s skyline, serving as a landmark visible from nearly every vantage point on Bora Bora.
Its steep, craggy sides are composed of rugged basalt formations, remnants of the island’s volcanic origins.
Although the summit of Mount Otemanu is inaccessible due to the loose and fragile nature of its rock, its presence is a constant source of awe and inspiration to both locals and visitors alike.
The mountain’s base offers various viewpoints and hiking trails, making it a focal point for explorations and a quintessential part of the Bora Bora experience.
