Tahiti And French Polynesia
Air travel provides the main way of reaching Bora Bora. This involves an international flight to Tahiti, followed by a domestic flight to Bora Bora. All international flights arrive at Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti.
Air Tahiti is the sole inter-island airline. It operates frequent flights from Tahiti (PPT) to Bora Bora (BOB), approximately 50 minutes. Book inter-island flights well in advance.
Flight frequency higher in high season (May-Oct), prices elevated. Low season (Nov-Apr) offers potentially lower prices. Flexibility for savings.
Dollar Flight Club for flight deals. Skyscanner for price comparisons.
PPT (Tahiti) offers restaurants, shops, currency exchange. BOB (Bora Bora) has very basic facilities.
When booking inter-island flights with Air Tahiti, consider purchasing an "Air Tahiti Pass" if you visit multiple islands. This can offer savings over individual tickets.
Book international and inter-island flights well in advance, typically six to twelve months prior, to secure better rates and availability, especially for high season.
For international flights, arrive at PPT at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights at BOB, 1 hour is usually sufficient, considering boat transfer time.
Land transportation mainly applies to the main island of Bora Bora. The island lacks connections to other landmasses. Driving takes place on the right side of the road. Roads on the main island are well-maintained, and traffic remains minimal outside Vaitape.
Scooters are widely available for rent from various shops in Vaitape. Bicycles are readily available for rent from shops in Vaitape and sometimes directly from guesthouses.
Walking and cycling offer excellent ways to experience the beauty of Bora Bora at a relaxed pace, especially on the main island. The circular road around the main island is approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) long.
Beyond standard options, Bora Bora offers specialized transportation methods, mainly focused on its famous lagoon. Boat taxis are the main means of transport between the main island and motus.
While air travel is the main method of arrival for tourists, sea access plays a role, notably for cruise ship passengers and those arriving from nearby islands on cargo services.
For cruise passengers, immigration procedures are typically handled onboard the ship upon its initial arrival in French Polynesia (often in Tahiti or another port of entry).
No specific departure tax for air travel from French Polynesia is collected separately at the airport. This fee is typically included in your airline ticket.
Domestic flights (BOB to PPT): Arrive at BOB at least 1 hour before flight. International flights (from PPT): Arrive at least 2.5-3 hours before flight.
Bora Bora Airport (BOB) has minimal facilities. Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti offers duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Reconfirm your international flight status and departure gate before leaving your accommodation in Bora Bora, as details can change.
