Are you traveling to Bora Bora soon? The Bora Bora Islands are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations for individuals who enjoy spending time by the sea. But is Bora Bora safe?
Located in the central South Pacific Ocean, this small group of islands draws plenty of tourists from across the globe to explore the pristine beaches, translucent waters, and tranquil surroundings.
Despite being a paradise for travelers, many people are concerned about safety in Bora Bora. The post below aims to put visitors’ fears to rest and answer the question about Bora Bora’s safety.
You can enjoy an interruption-free holiday and avoid any hazards if you follow the safety advice mentioned in this article and properly understand the threats that this location poses, which are minimal.
So let’s start and discover everything you need about traveling to Bora Bora!
Why Visit Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is a small group of islands (part of the Leeward Islands) with a lot of beauty. The closely connected group is only about six miles long and slightly more than two miles wide. A dormant volcano erupts at its heart, spreading over a lush jungle before crashing into an azure lagoon.
Bora Bora was termed “the most beautiful island in the world” by American novelist James Michener, who also penned “Tales of the South Pacific.” Additionally, it was named the “Pearl of the Pacific” by British explorer James Cook in the 18th Century.
Overall, Bora Bora is the epitome of a tropical holiday, with its magnificent resorts, friendly locals, warm waters, and bright sky. Famous for a diverse range of adventurous activities and beautiful luxury resorts, Bora Bora Island has plenty to offer visitors. So whether you prefer a calm day at the beach or like to get your adrenaline racing, Bora Bora has numerous options.
The Motu, or tiny island, is known for its white-sand beaches with coconut trees. The surrounding coral reef and the bright, blue waters of the South Pacific Ocean offer some fantastic activities like scuba diving, with colorful tropical fish and enormous manta rays drifting slowly through the coral gardens.
The beautiful Mount Otemanu in Bora Bora’s center is the island group’s highest point, ideal for tourists looking to venture beyond the sandy beaches.
Surrounded by a serene environment and breathtaking views, it is understandable why this 12-square-mile island group is considered one of the most picturesque and intimate holiday spots.
Where is Bora Bora Situated?
Bora Bora is an island in French Polynesia. It’s situated in the Pacific Ocean, almost in the middle of the United States and New Zealand.
French Polynesia includes more than 100 Pacific islands and is an overseas collectivity of France. This land is considered French sovereign soil, so you’re technically visiting Europe when you visit Bora Bora.
All the beautiful islands of French Polynesia cover an area of more than 4,000 sq km. This means that the area surrounding the most eastern and western island is roughly around 2,000 kilometers – which is almost the exact distance between Amsterdam and Athens!
Furthermore, the nearby islands are split into five groups. Bora Bora belongs to the Leeward Islands, which forms the western part of the Society Islands group. Besides that, it is only a 50-minute flight from French Polynesia’s capital city, Papeete, located on the island of Tahiti.
Here is a map of Bora Bora and the Leeward Islands to help you get oriented with this iconic tropical island.
See Related: Bora Bora vs The Maldives: What’s the Difference?
How to Reach Bora Bora
As Bora Bora is near Tahiti, it is best to fly to Tahiti first from the Papeete airport and then board a transfer flight to Bora Bora. Flying to Papeete may take some time, depending on your origin. However, once you reach Papeete, it only takes 50 minutes to Bora Bora.
Safety in Bora Bora
If you plan to travel to Bora Bora, you may be concerned about your safety because it is a relatively distant location with a distinct culture.
Rest assured that Bora Bora is a very secure location. However, when it comes to Bora Bora safety, here are a few things you can keep in mind:
Natural Disasters
Natural disasters, particularly tsunamis, constitute a moderate threat in Bora Bora. As the island is located in the center of the Pacific Ocean, the island is vulnerable to tidal surges if an earthquake strikes somewhere as far away as Chile or Samoa. Hence, if you hear about a tsunami warning when you visit Bora Bora, stay away from the beach and get to higher ground.
Cyclones and hurricanes are two other natural catastrophes that might occur in Bora Bora. Regarding man-made disasters, it’s reassuring to know that French Polynesia has never had a terror attack.
Driving
Driving in Bora Bora can be risky due to narrow roads, slow pothole repair, and the possibility of flooding during the rainy season, which spans from November to April.
Public transit is virtually non-existent except for a few taxis, a free ferry from the airport, and “Le Truck,” which operates along Bora Bora’s main road.
However, most visitors and locals ride bicycles around the island, which is the safest and most pleasurable mode of transportation. No other mode of transportation can top the fresh ocean breezes and fantastic sights while wheeling around on a bicycle.
Temperature
Bora Bora can get very hot, so dress in light-colored, loose clothing that will allow you to manage your body temperature.
Whenever you expect to go outside, apply sunscreen to your skin. Use reef-safe sunscreen to help conserve Bora Bora’s delicate coral systems. Also, remember that you do not want a severe sunburn, especially on an expensive trip.
Furthermore, stay hydrated to avoid exhaustion and heat stroke, but avoid untreated tap water. Water provided by resort restaurants is usually safe, but bottled water is recommended otherwise.
Crime
Bora Bora is one of the safest travel destinations globally, with one of the lowest crime rates. Though the crime on this beautiful island is almost negligible, there are still chances of thefts, like bag snatching and pickpocketing. Just be attentive and careful while exploring this place – like any new place.
Moreover, to secure your valuables put them in an anti-theft backpack or purse.
See Related: Best Travel Sandals for Beach Destinations
Vaccinations
Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations before you travel. CDC (The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) advises that most travelers acquire Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccines. You may also require a COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry.
Scuba Diving
Take measures against decompression sickness, commonly known as “the bends,” a deadly medical condition that occurs when a diver descends too deep, ascends too rapidly, remains too long, or takes an airplane ride too soon.
If you go scuba diving and experience symptoms like exhaustion, joint pain, vertigo, weakness, tingling, itching, shortness of breath, or numbness, get medical attention immediately.
Are There Sharks in Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is home to many sharks, as a barrier reef encircles the main island. There are also various other wild marine creatures, such as barracudas and stingrays, which you must avoid at all costs.
However, shark attacks in Bora Bora are extremely rare — only two have been documented in the previous century. The most recent incident occurred at Bora Bora’s Anau lagoon in 2015 when a blacktip shark bit a 9-year-old kid’s hand as the youngster attempted to feed the animal.
You must also consider other marine life during your Bora Bora visit, including the sea urchins and the coral, which may cause painful puncture wounds. Therefore, do not forget to wear protective water shoes whenever you are in the water.
It is also suggested not to pick cone shells since they can be harmful. Besides, be aware of the well-hidden stonefish, which may look like a rock that can release poison when stomped on.
If you think you’ve been stung by a stonefish, immediately get medical help and apply heat. Wearing foot protection when visiting snorkeling sites and doing other water activities is the easiest way to avoid this.
You will also find a lot of mosquitos in Bora Bora. Remember that mosquitoes spread chikungunya, dengue fever, and other diseases in this area. Hence, use efficient repellent to keep them at bay.
The Best Hotels in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is home to several luxurious hotels. Some of the best places to stay are as follows:
1. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is situated on Bora Bora’s coral atoll.
It features enormous beachfront villa estates and overwater bungalow style suites, designed with indigenous artwork and thatched roofs.
The luxury resort also incorporates four restaurants that provide diverse culinary experiences. Additionally, the resort offers other facilities, such as a tennis court, lagoon sanctuary, and different water sports.
2. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
The St. Regis Bora Bora is set on 44 acres of land, with a pristine lagoon, white beaches, and Mount Otemanu as its backdrop. It has beautiful beach garden villas and overwater bungalows.
You can eat at one of four St. Regis Bora Bora’s restaurants, including the resort’s trademark fine-dining restaurant, Lagoon by Jean-Georges. Every guest has access to a butler service (you can request it before arrival).
You will also find swimming pools, various beautiful beaches, and a naturally filtered private lagoonarium with a brilliant assortment of tropical species. To add to the experience, the Clarins Miri Miri Spa is set on a secluded islet inside the lagoonarium.
3. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a lush tropical paradise with an extensive white sand beach in Bora Bora, situated in a lagoon of black lava rock and clear blue waters. It has several villas and suites, including over-water villas and two Presidential overwater bungalows on a private island.
In-room dining is available 24 hours a day, and all rooms include solar panels, soaking baths, a Nespresso coffee machine, and king-size mattresses.
4. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Step off the private deck of your magnificent over-water villa at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa Resort into the warm embrace of a calm lagoon.
The breathtaking resort features scuba diving, sunset excursions on neighboring reefs, an award-winning spa, and a pristine beach.
The resort also recently launched a new Brando Suites Bora Bora Experience, featuring vast living spaces, including two bedrooms and a dining and living area.
It also boasts an expansive outdoor terrace, the largest private infinity pool, and uninterrupted 180-degree spectacular views of Mount Otemanu and Bora Bora island.
5. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts
Situated on the beach at Motu Tevairoa, Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts features beachfront suites with a private hot tub, garden suites with private pools, and overwater bungalows with direct access to blue waters.
You can choose between three different restaurants, including Tevairoa Restaurant, which provides al fresco dining on the terrace and overlooks the turquoise waters of the Bora Bora Lagoon. Other amenities at the resort include:
- A diving center.
- A large outdoor swimming pool.
- Tavai Spa.
- A flood-lit tennis court.
6. Maitai Bora Bora
The Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is adjacent to Matira Beach — Bora Bora’s only public beach and is surrounded by magnificent tropical gardens. They provide excellent, reasonably priced lodging, a friendly environment, and a Polynesian welcome.
The hotel includes two bars, two restaurants, souvenir shops, and more. The Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora is an excellent choice if you want to stay on the beach at a reasonable price while visiting the Society Islands of Tahiti and French Polynesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need a Passport to Go to Bora Bora?
A passport is required to exit the United States and enter Bora Bora, French Polynesia. All international travelers must possess a valid passport. Most nations may additionally require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your intended entry date and that you have a return flight ticket.
Is Tahiti Safe?
Tourist-targeted violent crimes in Tahiti are almost unheard of, and even petty crimes are rare. However, it does not mean you should risk your life by leaving a valuable camera in the passenger seat of your car rental or on the beach. Take care of your belongings, no matter where you are.
Overall, there are no big frauds in French Polynesia. Some believe that this is because the place is super expensive; hence, visitors do not need to overcharge.
Is Bora Bora in the US?
Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific, is not a part of the United States. Bora Bora is in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and South America. As a result, it is also not a part of these nations. It is, nevertheless, a part of French Polynesia.
As the letter “B” is not found in the indigenous alphabet, the island’s name is “Pora Pora.” The people who live on the island communicate using a blend of Tahitian and French.
The term Pora Pora means “the firstborn.” This indicates that the island is ancient, maybe around seven million years old. However, the island was first found in 1722 by Dutch admiral Jacob Roggeveen.
Are There Any Bora Bora Travel Restrictions Due to COVID-19?
The State and Government of French Polynesia decided at the beginning of January 2022 that vaccinated tourists from the United States and orange zone nations will be exempt from the compelling reason and quarantine.
Recently, the government extended this ruling to all red-zone countries.
As a result, vaccinated passengers from red zone nations are no longer subject to quarantine and no longer have to provide a compelling motive to visit Tahiti. You can visit the Bora Bora tourism website for more information.
So is Bora Bora a safe place to visit? You’ve most likely already discovered the answer. It is one of the safest sites for nature-loving tourists.
Plan your vacation as soon as possible, and do not worry much about safety concerns! If you follow everything mentioned in the post, you will always be safe.
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