Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora has always been a dream destination for us, purely based on the many photos we had seen of this tropical paradise. Needless to say we were beyond excited that we got to visit this island twice on this cruise. During our first visit we had a great trip through the lagoon on a catamaran. Second time around was on the second half of the cruise and we had an excursion to the mountains overlooking the lagoon around us.

All photo's can be purchased on various materials through my shop on artheroes.com.

Below are all the photos related to this travel experience including the relevant link to the shop.

The beach on Motu Tapu

Passing a beach on Motu Tapu in the lagoon around the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Crystal clear water and a perfect combination of green, white and turquiose colours are a joy to watch. We really felt privileged to be able to be here.

Mount Pahia behind island To'opua

Mount Pahia rises behind the island of To'opua. One of the many great views while sailing in the lagoon around the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The colours in the lagoon can hardly be described.

Fishing in the lagoon

It's not all fun and games for everyone on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Local people are going about their business as usual. Here someone fishing in the lagoon.

Pretty expensive to stay there

This is what the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia is typically known for. Luxureous overwater bungalows which cost a small fortune to stay at. We couldn't help wondering how it would feel to have paid so much money and constantly having lagoon tours passing your bungalow.

The small island To'opuaiti

Sailing around the small island of To'opuaiti in the lagoon surrounding the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. There are a few more of these motus or islets as they also call these, most smaller.

The mountain is always visible

The mountain is always visible while sailing on the lagoon around the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. We love the specific form of Mount Pahia. So nice to witness this view while sipping a cocktail.

Golden glow

The end of a first great day on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Watching the golden glow of a fabulous sunset on the cruise ship Norwegian Jewel while manoeuvring out of the lagoon.

Off road driving

We are back on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia for the second time within a week. This day was all about off road driving into the mountains. The trip started relatively easy but soon turned into quite a bumpy experience.

Poo Poo Uri Roa cannons

After the second World War the Americans left eight cannons on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Four of those can be reached relative easy by some off-road excursion to the historical site called Poo Poo Uri Roa. It is on private land and only a tour can bring you there.

Most intriguingly the area where the cannons are located is named nothing less than Poo Poo Uri Roa. Given uri is Tahitian for a man’s’ private & roa means big, the derivation of the name is worthy of greater investigation.

Tupai in the distance

Enjoying the views from the historical site at Poo Poo Uri Roa where four of only eight cannons left in World War II are located. Another great spot to visit on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Far in the distance the island of Tupai can be seen.

It's a real challenge

It's a real challenge going off-road on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The only sealed road is at sea level going around the island, but as soon as you want to go somewhere higher up the mountains these are the tracks that need to be conquered. Hold on tight!

Close to Mont Pahia

Strolling around in the small community of Fa'anui on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. A beautiful place to live with exquisite views over the surrounding lagoon and close to Mont Pahia which provides a beautiful backdrop.

Fresh mangos

Fruit is abundant on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. People are free to pick any fruit they want. While exploring the small community at Fa'anui we came across these beautiful fresh mangos.

The tricky road up the mountain

Driving up to a fabulous viewpoint on Mont Popoti on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. A great adventure in itself as the jeep was shaking us back and forth on the tricky 'road' up the mountain. Magnificent views to enjoy though so definitely recommended.

Pointe Ofu O Rau

Looking down into the lagoon surrounding the island while standing high up at Mont Popoti on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The tip of land is called Pointe Ofu O Rau. 

Mont Pahia touched by clouds

So many great views to choose from high up at Mont Popoti on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Here looking at Mont Pahia as its peak is touched by clouds.