Mount Otemanu, the Extinct Volcano at the Heart of Bora Bora

Those who have holidayed in the islands of French Polynesia have long known that paradise on Earth exists. And Bora Bora, with its wonderfully doubled name, is proof of it. This is where you can experience true island life without bustle or noise—just a gentle, harmonious balance of body and soul. Thinking of travelling here? An excellent choice. Villas above crystal-clear turquoise water, swimming that is a pleasure in itself, cuisine centred on fruit and seafood, and the underwater beauty of the coral reef await visitors from May onwards, after the rainy season that lasts from November to April. While brief showers are still possible in April and May, stable sunny weather usually arrives in June. The island enjoys around 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, leaving plenty of time to relax on the beach.

But beyond the calm, slightly secluded pace of island life, visitors can also enjoy a thrill. The island’s extraordinary beauty was shaped by a vast volcano. After its eruptions, it left behind fragments of its former grandeur, creating the dramatic contours of Bora Bora’s landscape. The atoll itself consists of basaltic lava, while the surrounding motu islets are formed from coral fragments and sand. The island’s highest point is majestic Mount Otemanu. At 727 metres, it may be modest compared with some of the world’s better-known peaks, but it is dangerous for climbing. This proud, unconquered mountain, offering views over the flawless natural lagoon and the vast Pacific Ocean, is closed to climbers. The risk of accidents is too high, even for experienced mountaineers. Climbing the fragile volcanic rock is extremely hazardous, so ascents of Mount Otemanu are prohibited. How, then, can you get closer to the heart of the island and enjoy its captivating views? There are several ways to approach the mountain.

The first is by air—and it is probably the most exciting option. You will see not only the extinct volcano and its main peaks, Otemanu, Pahia and Mataihua, but also the entire island from a bird’s-eye view. Tahiti Nui Helicopters offers helicopter flights of varying durations.

In a helicopter seating up to five passengers and offering excellent panoramic visibility, you can choose from four types of island flight. The mountain is visible on every route, with the added highlight of either a wide circuit over the lagoon or a flight above the beautiful heart-shaped island of Tupai. Flight times range from ten to thirty minutes, depending on the chosen route. The shortest flight costs $136, while the longest costs $409. Choosing an option that includes a forty-minute beach break raises the price to $1,717. If you would like to give someone special an unusual gift, gift certificates are also available.

In addition to aerial adventures, hiking excursions are available, usually combined with travel by car or quad bike. Private mountain tours are particularly popular. Since Mount Otemanu’s summit cannot be reached, tours instead use its “shoulders” or nearby elevations that are easier to climb.

Choosing a quad bike gives you two and a half to three hours of adrenaline-filled riding along rocky roads, with short breaks along the way. These excursions usually include food and drinks, so all you need to consider is comfortable clothing, suitable footwear and sun protection. There are some physical restrictions: the activity is not recommended for children whose feet cannot reach the footrests, pregnant women, or people with back pain and other health concerns. However, if you are in good health, this is a great way to add vivid memories to your trip.

Several viewpoints offer the chance to take spectacular photographs of the lagoon from above. The view may not be quite the same as from a helicopter, but you have a better opportunity to capture a perfect shot while standing still. The lush vegetation covering the slopes can provide a beautiful natural frame for your composition. Although island tours are private, their routes vary little. They typically include a visit to the centre of Vaitape, the Amanahune Plateau, where you can see just how many shades of blue blend into the tranquil lagoon waters, and often Matira Beach. From there, visitors continue to the climbable Ana'u Rock, where they can admire Bora Bora’s main mountain, Otemanu. After seeing the island’s only pass, “Canon’s Pearl,” guests are taken to a local village to learn about the island’s history. Prices for open-jeep tours start at $600, while quad-bike rides start from $900 per group. Departure points may also vary. Read the tour conditions carefully to check whether hotel transfers are included or whether the meeting point is elsewhere and must be reached independently.

Overall, Bora Bora’s tourist-restricted heart reveals the island’s sincere and generous spirit. These journeys, conversations with local people, and encounters with the authentic lives and traditions of islanders offer something deeper. While staying in this beautiful paradise, set aside at least one morning to step beyond the hotel walls and discover a history that began on a majestic sleeping volcano.