Plan
your dream escape with this essential Bora Bora travel guide.
Discover French Polynesia’s culture, local tips, best times to
visit, and everything you need for an unforgettable island holiday.
Country: French Polynesia (Island of Bora Bora)
Continent / Region: Oceania / South Pacific
Capital City: Vaitape (main town on Bora Bora)
Government Type: Overseas Collectivity of France
Population: Approx. 11,000
Official Language(s): French, Tahitian
English Usage: Widely spoken in tourism
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−10 (Tahiti Time)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/E – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers need a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 17 (Police), 15 (Medical), 18 (Fire)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 24–30+ hours (via Los Angeles or Paris → Tahiti → Bora Bora)
Best Time/Months to Travel: May–October (dry season)
Main International Access Airport:
Main Bora Bora Airport:
- Visa Requirements: Same as France
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required (short stays)
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in 180 days
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; consider Hepatitis A & Typhoid
Embassy Information (UK Representation):
Average Daily Costs: £150 / £300 / £900+
Tipping Culture: Not customary but appreciated for good service
Public Transport Options: Water taxis, resort boats, limited buses, bicycles
Approx. Cost of Single Boat Transfer: Varies (often included with resort stay)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G in main areas; Vini, Vodafone Tahiti
Main Climate Type: Tropical
Average Temperature: 26–31°C year-round
Major Areas: Vaitape, Matira Beach, resort motus (small islets)
Natural Attractions: Lagoon, coral reefs, Mount Otemanu, tropical forests
Popular Destinations: Matira Beach, Coral Gardens, Mount Otemanu viewpoints, lagoon excursions
Main Religions: Christianity; Polynesian traditions
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Fresh fish, poisson cru (raw fish with coconut milk), tropical fruit, breadfruit dishes, French-Polynesian fusion cuisine
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Mount Otemanu, Matira Beach, Bora Bora Lagoonarium, Coral Gardens
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Rare but tours can be overpriced
Health Risks: Sun exposure, coral cuts, jellyfish (seasonal)
Recommended Clinics: Basic medical facilities in Vaitape; main hospital in Tahiti
Insurance Recommendation: Strongly recommended — especially for water activities
Internet Speed: Good 4G in populated areas; slower in outer motus
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Lagoon tours, Matira Beach, Coral Gardens, Mount Otemanu boat circuits
Unique Experiences: Overwater villa stays, shark & ray snorkelling, sunset cruises, Polynesian dance dinners
Hidden Gems: Secret motu beaches, Anau manta ray spot, quiet lagoon corners, local artisan markets
Popular Areas to Stay: Motu resorts, Matira Beach, Vaitape boutique stays
Average Hotel Prices: £150 / £350 / £900+ (Overwater villas often £1,000+ per night)
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Limited — mostly resort lounges
Local Drinks: Tahitian beer (Hinano), coconut cocktails, fresh juices
Entertainment: Polynesian dance shows, fire dancing, live music, beach bars
Car Rental: Limited; scooters & bikes common
Boats: Main mode between motus and resorts
Taxis: Mostly water taxis
Bus: Small local bus around Vaitape & island loop (limited service)
Best Markets: Vaitape centre, artisan huts, hotel boutiques
Popular Souvenirs: Black pearls, carved wood art, pareo clothing, monoi oil, shell jewellery
Local SIM Card Providers: Vini, Vodafone Tahiti
Typical Business Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (Mon–Fri), 8 a.m.–12 p.m. (Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Often safe in resorts; bottled water preferred in smaller areas
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Bora Bora is often called the “Romantic Island” due to its stunning lagoon — formed from a collapsed volcanic crater.