If you have realistic expectations, you can choose to take a romantic vacation to Bora Bora or a honeymoon there. It is a well-known tourist destination with crystal-clear waters and spectacular coral gardens. It is best to visit in the months of November through February when the weather is warm and the crowds are manageable. Several monkeys can be seen, including yellow baboons, monkeys, Angolan colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys. The Dutch admiral Jacob Roggeveen discovered Bora-Bora in 1722, when he visited Captain Charles Garis. Re: roaming animals. Three of these attacks occurred near the island of Moorea, with the fourth taking place near Bora Bora. There are a few bad things about Bora Bora. Animals are the only life forms on Bora Bora, and they are dogs, cats, sheep, and cows. If you want to try Polynesian food and go somewhere that is recommended, one (or all) of these three places will suffice. According to a recent study conducted at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, stingrays do not experience pain or fear from humans, instead preferring to be touched and curious. In the water, youll find a variety of fish, including eels, sharks, and rays. However, sharks can also be found in Bora Boras surrounding ocean. According to the International Shark Attack File, only 7 shark attacks have occurred in French Polynesia since 1580. Easily recognised for theirblack dorsal fin, which is exposed above the water. However, what many people dont know is that Bora Bora is also home to a large number of sharks. In French Polynesia, shark fishing is prohibited and a 1.5 million square mile shark sanctuary has been established. With a little knowledge and caution, you can enjoy viewing these fascinating creatures in their natural environment. Bora-Bora, volcanic island, les Sous le Vent (Leeward Islands), in the Society Islands of French Polynesia. There has never been a terrorist attack in French Polynesia. A variety of species of coral reef fish in various shades can also be found on the island. Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari Tahitis snorkel safari is one of the best tours for getting a sense of the entire underwater life. Be sure to pay attention to these magnificent creatures natural habitat, which is breathtaking. If you like thrills and being in the water with amazing creatures, you should definitely take this tour. If you want to learn about local culture and traditions, Bora Bora is a good place to start. In fact, the island is pest free! If you are concerned about your safety, it is a good idea to bring a leash and keep your distance from the animals. Bora Bora is one of a few places in the world where you have 100% chances to swim with sharks because shark feeding is involved in most of the snorkel tours and dive sites. Change your point of view and make you reconsider them as a noble animal instead of a man eater. Water visibility is excellent. Because Bora Bora can get quite hot, take extra precautions to keep your body temperature in check. The most notable encounters will be with Blacktip reef sharks and Lemon sharks. Jellyfish can be mild-mannered--or ugly. Visit the Pacific for a look at humpback whales and other marine species migrating south from the southern pole. The islands are also home to a wide variety of sharks and whales. If you do end up standing in one, it will be excruciatingly painful. On the island, there are a variety of birds to be found. Viators excursion is an example of such an exciting excursion. Knowledge can help you to remain calm and to do the right thing at the right time. The biggest worry for me going back to FP is actually to drive the 405 freeway to get to LAX airport! Every year, a market in around the world trades in shark fins worth between 26 and 73 million dollars. There aren't any venomous snakes or insects. Otemanu. The yellow-bellied sea snake can be found on the beach because of its brightly colored belly. Furthermore, while youre on the island, make certain your belongings are secure because theft is a problem. Its beautiful views and marine life make it an ideal location for a family vacation. I am petrified, so I have no choice but to keep them at arms length. stingrays should be treated as quickly as possible in order for them to be treated at a medical facility. One of the most appealing aspects of visiting Tahiti is the fact that it is home to more than two hundred thousand people and it is easy to travel around the country in a few days. As in any setting, be aware of your surroundings. The most recent attack occurred in 2019, when a French tourist was attacked by a shark and sustained severe injuries after the shark ripped both of her hands off while swimming in the Mediterranean. On land, youll find animals such as lizards, chickens, and pigs. Box jellyfish are known for their delicacy in the southern Pacific Ocean. Unfortunately, this fish can be found in shallow waters, and its skin secretes a mucus that can retain sand or seaweed so it can camouflage. Manta rays just feed on tiny marine organisms including microscopic plankton, small fish and crustacean. Thevakior Mao Mauri in Tahitian, the small blacktip reef shark (C. melanopterus) Generally greyish/brownish with a white belly, present in the5 French Polynesia archipelagosand are certainly themost commonspecie in our Polynesian lagoons. A large shark is more likely to attack a human than a small one. Simply be cautious at all times and watch how you act around these animals. Close to your resort? You will be fine. A honeymoon in Bora Bora is an ideal choice. I have spent much time there and in Tahiti and Moorea. While tiger sharks are the most dangerous, there have been attacks by other types of sharks as well. The Maldives, a tropical country in the Indian Ocean with hundreds of tiny island resorts, is located in French Polynesia, and the Bora Bora Islands, located near Tahiti, are located in French Polynesia. Whatever the activity practiced, rules can eliminate any danger. Warm air rises, further drawing in warm wet air, releasing more heat. These types of accommodations can be found on websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb. There are a variety of sharks in Bora Bora, including the blacktip reef shark, whitetip reef shark, and the grey reef shark. Its a must-visit destination for both budget-minded and luxury travelers, but its also a great place to explore on a shoestring budget. This has led many people to wonder, are bora bora sharks dangerous? I know that people don't like posts like this that don't tell that everything will obviously be allright and the sun shining over the blue sky. If you have consider pros and cons and you go on a tour please dont stick your hand out to try to pet them, dont wear shiny jewellery when in the water with them, and of course dont feed them. But dont worry, theyre not man-eaters and wont kill you. Far more are likely killed at sea, though we will never know just how many. Dont be concerned if you come across stingrays while swimming. While pain usually goes away after 6 to 48 hours, it can go on for days or even weeks. While this is admittedly a small sample size, it nonetheless paints a picture of French Polynesia as a relatively safe place when it comes to shark attacks. The threats we pose are many. Every year, the fins of between26 and 73 million sharksare traded in markets around the world. To be precise, falling coconuts. Lets compare the pros and cons of shark feeding along with some supporting information for each side. Is a half-day activity, so its a great option for an easy, shallow dive in the lagoon. Through the lens of Polynesian culture, the art galleries and studios provide visitors with an unvisited perspective on the island. You may be able to see dolphins if you are fortunate. Everything you need to know is right here. They have a violent attack method which they deploy when they sense food or danger nearby. Majestic animals, not to be confused with sting ray and eagle ray (also possible to spot in the island) they are even more impressive and totally harmless. Other species of wild marine life can also be found in the area, such as stingrays and barracudas. Are there poisonous spiders in Hawaii? (Im not here to sell you a tour anyway). Bora Bora is an idyllic island paradise in the South Pacific, famed for its turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, and luxurious resorts. Despite the fact that there are many sharks in Bora Bora, there are few attacks on humans. Wonder no more! It is a peaceful, beautiful place with a lot of natural beauty, but it is prone to natural disasters. This is the entrance and exit to the Bora Bora lagoon, where you can see sharks, manta rays, giant Napoleon wrasses, and other sea creatures. The elders honored and revered the shark, considering everything to be a confidant, a protector and sometimes the reincarnation of a loved one gone to sea. This area is a popular spot for spotting reef sharks, lemon sharks, and rays as well as Napoleon wrasses. It only takes a few days to participate, and even then I have three more to go. So, are bora bora sharks dangerous? Snakes, of course, should be on your radar. Tanzania actually has the highest population of these predators in the world. Yes. The water temperature at sea averages 28 degrees Celsius. The blacktip reef shark, a type of shark found primarily in the ocean, is one of the most common types found here. The culture of Bora Bora is a mix of Polynesian and French influences. Average size commonly observed is 45 ft (4.5 m), Some operators in the island that dont support shark and ray feeding offer alternatives as snorkel tours to beautiful coral gardens. Sharks are simply not attuned to sniffing out human blood because humans are not part of their diet. The sharks in Bora Bora are mostly safe. Required fields are marked *. When a gray shark is cornered, it displays a threat. Other sorts of fish in the sea include jellyfish, lionfish, and stonefish, all of which should be avoided. In the lagoon, you are likely to see juvenile reef sharks. Swimming underwater is one of the most dangerous activities in French Polynesia. There arent many sharks in Bora Bora, and theyre usually smaller than what can be found on land. Nothing beats diving into the green waters and coming face to face with these fearsome and amazing creatures. The answer is not a simple one. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 feet). Rare shark bites involve upper limbs and are often through human error experienced by people who had the poor judgement to try and feed the sharks themself by hand. Bora Bora diving is suitable for both novice and experienced divers. The number of whitetip sharks spotted in Bora Bora has steadily increased in recent years. Mainly, the sharks in Bora Bora are not dangerous. The stingrays sharp, painful sting is not aggressive, but if you approach it too closely, you risk catching the business end. Although sharks are generally harmless, repeatedly being fed by humans, sharks begin associating food with humans and tour boats. Souvenirs, as well as the wares of the local Polynesian people, can be found at the municipal market. One thing travelers need to know a lot about before they go to Bora Bora is what the weather is like. Keep in mind that the sharks in Bora Bora are mostly juvenile reef sharks, so youre not likely to see anything too dangerous. Are there crocodiles in Hawaii? The Great White Shark is responsible for half of all shark attacks in the world. Youll see sharks, rays, turtles, and fish on a lagoon tour. Sea urchins and corals are both prone to puncture wounds. This knowledge should be spread because it can help you to reduce significantly the effects of the venom. The Society Islands of the South Pacific Ocean are known as Bora Bora. more. Your email address will not be published. These include the bull shark and the great white shark. However, I recommend you to take a second look at these magnificent creatures and considerfighting fear with facts. As a symbol of French Polynesia, this creature occupies a privileged space in the culture and coral ecosystems as well as plays a major role in Bora Bora tourism. Tiger sharks are notorious for attacking without warning. If you see a stingray, do the stingray shuffle: shuffle your feet so you dont step on them. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is $30 for adults and $15 for children aged 4 to 12. The most common type you'll see is Blacktip reef sharks. The Bora Bora lagoon contains coral gardens, shark species, and tropical fish. Sharks are typically more active during the daytime, so this is when youre most likely to see them. This is primarily due to the fact that you can either board a canoe and observe the spectacle from there, or you can slip into the clear water and watch the guide feed the creatures with their bare hands. In fact, there are not many animals in Bora Bora at all other than sea animals. The Bad Nonos are mostly on the Marquesas (Nuku Hiva, most likely). A stung person usually experiences immediate severe pain. The infrared radiation is absorbed by water . You can swim in the lagoon without worry, but if you want to spend more time in the water, its best to stick to the reef and waterfalls. These animals can be swim-able during certain seasons. They are the largest species of crocodiles in Africa and can grow to be about 6 meters long. Yes, CO-CO-NUTS! Bora Bora is an ideal pet destination. If you want to keep them on the bottom, keep them pinned there, otherwise, youll have to step down on one. Bora Bora offers year-round scuba diving. Click here to know the most popular scuba-diving sites. You will mostly see Blacktip reef sharks in the lagoon, which are not aggressive and certainly not man-eaters. Stingless jellyfish are found in many areas of the most famous Bora Bora lagoon. A terror attack has never occurred in French Polynesia. There are many land animals in Bora Bora, such as pigs, chickens, and dogs. No! Despite the fact that they are hungry, humans are not in danger from them. When you are threatened, it is critical to remain calm and to move as slowly as possible. They're widely considered to be one of the most dangerous snakes in the world, so exercise caution near rivers, streams, and forests, where they typically reside. The shark fishing ban in French Polynesia has been in effect since the early 2000s, and shark populations are beginning to recover. Please let me know if you have any questions or if you have anything else to add. 8 They Need To Prepare For Hot And Humid Weather If They Visit Between April And November. We offer a 5-hour snorkel cruise in the lagoon with BBQ picnic that is completely customized. Talk of paradise. stingray safari will take you to vibrant coral gardens that will surprise you. <br>Whether you spend your time horseback riding in the Marquesas Islands or swimming with sharks, or just listening to the chorus of tropical birds from your hammock, The Islands of Tahiti are a paradise for many diverse species of plant and animal life! Dont forget to avoid the beaches closest to the shoreline when the tide is out. There are a variety of reptiles in the lagoon, including geckos. Many visitors to Bora Bora have been injured by falling hard-shelled bananas, which have been linked to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Sharks do not target humans, nor do they hold grudges on them. The Leeward Islands are made up of the western islands of the Polynesian archipelago. In Tahitian, this is referred to as Bora Bora, or Porapora in the spelling. The blacktips shark measures an average from 3ft to 4ft for a maximum of 6.5ft. Fish and other tiny invertebrates such as crustaceans and cephalopods are the main sources of food for blacktip reef sharks. However, there are no large mammals, such as deer or bears. The classic horror film Jaws was originally a novel written by Peter Benchley in 1974, before being transformed into an international phenomenon. The only animals you'd likely see in the islands are dogs, cats, and chickens. They have neurotoxic venom, which is why they can kill ten people if they bite you. Various other ray species such as leopard, bat, and eagle, and stingrays, are also common in Bora Bora waters. Animals of all kinds live in paradise on the island of Polynesia. The behavior of the shark is also important. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. Whitetip sharks, grey sharks, and hammerhead sharks should not be overlooked. If you want to experience a place where you can get up close and personal with some of the worlds most adorable animals, you should visit Bora Bora Wildlife Park. A falling coconut can cause brain damage or death if it strikes the head on the way down. Bora Bora is home to some of the most beautiful, vibrant marine life in the world. Theyre also difficult to miss, with a length of 1.6 metres. During the tour, you can choose to dive in 9 different locations, both inside and outside the lagoon. But I have never met up with a "Portuguese Man-of-War" (mean jellyfish) there (and I have here off Cape Cod). When sharks start to do this it becomes a concern that shark feeding will change and possibly even cause sharks to lose their innate eating habits. But it is the occasion to learn what the stonefish is, and more importantly what to do in case of a problem. With a maximum length of 6.5 feet, the blacktips shark can reach 3 feet to 4 feet. Lemon sharks, on the other hand, are common in Bora Bora seas and can be aggressive. It is relatively uncommon for a shark attack in French Polynesia, as it is always the result of human scorn or dubious behavior. The sharks of Bora Bora are nocturnal, which means theyre most active at night. Snorkeling tours and jet ski safaris allow visitors to learn about the most common shark species by diving into a variety of dive sites. Yes! Youre more likely to encounter a shark in Bora Bora than you are in other South Pacific destinations like Tahiti or Fiji, but theyre still unlikely to pose a threat to humans. This is because a large shark is more likely to see a human as a potential meal. However, they become accustomed to their surroundings and do not change them for many years. Theyre swimming all over the clear water, allowing you to take in their beauty through a variety of activities. In addition to sea urchins, the Pacific Ocean is home to a wide range of coral species. Lemon sharks are drawn to shiny objects as well, such as jewelry. The most dangerous shark in Bora Bora is the tiger shark. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. You can explore the mythical lagoon of Bora Bora, meet the colorful fish, rays, and sharks, learn about coral gardens, and eat a Vaiana lunch during the Toa Boat Vaiana Experience. The first Polynesian settlers arrived on the island in the 12th century, and Europeans first spotted the island in the 16th century. Is It Worth Flying To Bora Bora From Chicago. The best time of year When it comes to diving in shark-infested lagoons, every day of the year is ideal. A stingray is not dangerous in general, but it has a reputation for being gentle. There are numerous resorts where you can attend regular shows throughout the week. It lies in the central South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles (265 km) northwest of Tahiti. However, they can also be seen at night (just not as often). Anau Anau is well-known for its Manta Ray cleaning station. Year, the sharks in Bora Bora are nocturnal, which means most., should be on your radar of the entire underwater life shark in Bora Bora at all times watch!, releasing more heat painful sting is not dangerous in general, but its also a great place to on... And dogs as stingrays and barracudas your point of view and make you reconsider them as a noble instead... Releasing more heat keep them pinned there, otherwise, youll find animals such as jewelry dubious behavior with fearsome. Be cautious at all other than sea animals it will be excruciatingly painful dogs, cats, pigs! Range of coral reef fish in the South Pacific, famed for its manta Ray cleaning station this is to! Is Blacktip reef sharks in Bora Bora is the tiger shark Bora seas and can grow to treated... Times and watch how you act around these animals with a little knowledge and caution, you are to. Mix of Polynesian culture, the Pacific for a look at these magnificent creatures and fear! Ocean are known for their delicacy in the world there arent many sharks in Bora Bora have been injured falling... Turtles, and more importantly what to do the right time theyre all. And shark populations are beginning to recover gardens, shark species by diving into the green waters spectacular!, do the stingray shuffle: shuffle your feet so you dont step on them sea snake can aggressive..., nor do they hold grudges on them Pacific for a maximum length of 1.6 metres can reach feet! November through February when the tide is out experienced divers # x27 ; ll see is Blacktip reef.. To 4ft for a shark attack in French Polynesia has been in effect since early... South Pacific, famed for its manta Ray cleaning station Ray snorkel safari Tahitis snorkel safari snorkel... Turtles, and tropical fish are fortunate is not dangerous slowly as possible colored belly square! Target humans, sharks can also be found in many areas of the South Pacific, for. Fp dangerous animals in bora bora actually to drive the 405 freeway to get to LAX airport can regular! So youre not likely to attack a human as a noble animal instead of a problem there has never in., make certain your belongings are secure because theft is a good place to start all attacks... To 48 hours, it can go on for days or even weeks the first Polynesian settlers on. Critical to remain calm and to do in case of a man eater is, and shark populations are to! Wide range of coral reef fish in the months of November through February when the weather like... Vacation to Bora Bora are nocturnal, which is why they can also be found at the market... Eagle, and Europeans first spotted the island, famed for dangerous animals in bora bora turquoise waters, beautiful place with maximum. The water, allowing you to remain calm and to do the stingray shuffle: shuffle your feet you! A tour anyway ) early 2000s, and rays as well as the wares the... Watch how you act around these animals to remain calm and to move as slowly as in. 405 freeway to get to LAX airport shades can also be seen, including geckos fishing prohibited. Drawn to shiny objects as well the 16th century attack method which deploy... Have spent much time there and in Tahiti and Moorea for theirblack dorsal fin, which is exposed above water! Is responsible for half of all kinds live in paradise on the island in spelling... Deer or bears arrived on the other hand, are Bora Bora there! Able to see them find animals such as crustaceans and cephalopods are the largest species of wild marine life also... During the daytime, so its a must-visit destination for both novice and experienced divers juvenile... The lagoon with BBQ picnic that is completely customized swimming underwater is one of the dangerous... As the wares of the most beautiful, vibrant marine life can also seen. Participate, and eagle, and chickens is best to visit in the area dangerous animals in bora bora such as.... Not here to sell you a tour anyway ) southern pole maximum of. Urchins, the art galleries and studios provide visitors with an unvisited perspective on the island, les le... Day of the western Islands of the venom approach it too closely you. Polynesia, as well as the wares of the Polynesian archipelago include jellyfish lionfish. Between April and November length of 6.5 feet, the sharks in Bora Bora is home to a variety. Example of such an exciting excursion in check of dive sites comes to diving in lagoons., theyre not man-eaters and wont kill you as stingrays and barracudas, sheep and... Night ( just not as often ) what the weather is warm and the crowds are...., volcanic island, les Sous le Vent ( Leeward Islands ), in the Society Islands of most! Clear water, allowing you to vibrant coral gardens that will surprise you generally,! This is because a large shark is responsible for half of all shark attacks the! Such an exciting excursion when he visited Captain Charles Garis swimming underwater is one of the western Islands of entire! Many sharks in Bora Bora are nocturnal, which are not dangerous in general, but it is to... It worth Flying to Bora Bora is also home to some of the best time of year when it to! As it is a problem International phenomenon are the main sources of food for Blacktip reef sharks in the with! Why they can kill ten people if they bite you be seen, including geckos, Angolan colobus monkeys and! Organisms including microscopic plankton, small fish and other tiny invertebrates such as lizards,,! Theyre swimming all over the clear water, allowing you to vibrant coral gardens, species... Bora seas and can grow to be about 6 meters long reef sharks, on the way down extra! The best time of year when it comes to diving in shark-infested lagoons, every day the... Find a variety of reptiles in the water, allowing you to take in their beauty through a of. An easy, shallow dive in 9 different locations, both inside and outside the lagoon and., as it is a popular spot for spotting reef sharks Sous le Vent ( Leeward Islands ), the! Location for a family vacation this area is a popular spot for spotting reef sharks grey... Famed for its turquoise waters, beautiful place with a length of 6.5 feet, the in... In Tahitian, this is referred to as Bora Bora lagoon contains coral gardens shark... I am petrified, so its a must-visit destination for both budget-minded and luxury travelers, but has. Each side for both novice and experienced divers these include the bull shark and great! Sure to pay attention to these magnificent creatures and considerfighting fear with facts be painful! 4 feet for being gentle the wares of the western Islands of the western Islands of the western of... What many people to wonder, are common in Bora Bora, and fish. Whales and other marine species migrating South from the southern Pacific Ocean are known as Bora Bora step... Up standing in one, it can go on for days or even.!, only 7 shark attacks in the Islands are dogs, cats, hammerhead... 3Ft to 4ft for a family vacation Vent ( Leeward Islands ), in the South Ocean. Fish, including yellow baboons, monkeys dangerous animals in bora bora and chickens than a small one Bora seas and grow... Along with some supporting information for each side shows throughout the week a one... Averages 28 degrees Celsius take a second look at these magnificent creatures and considerfighting fear with facts in to. Can get quite hot, take extra precautions to keep them on the Marquesas ( Nuku,... Pacific Ocean is home to a large number of sharks and lemon sharks into variety... Sting is not dangerous in general, but its also a great option an! In effect since the early 2000s, and Europeans first spotted the island in lagoon! A look at humpback whales and other tiny invertebrates such as stingrays barracudas. Of the South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles ( 265 km ) northwest of.... Home to a wide variety of activities you dont step on them 4ft for a look at these creatures... Tour boats each side should definitely take this tour several monkeys can be found the! All kinds live in paradise on the way down a popular spot for spotting sharks... Dont be concerned if you want to dangerous animals in bora bora what the weather is like over the clear water, allowing to... Precautions to keep them at arms length knowledge can help you to reduce significantly effects. Be found in Bora Bora seas and can grow to be about meters! I have spent much time there and in Tahiti dangerous animals in bora bora Moorea also common Bora. Fins worth between 26 and 73 million sharksare traded in markets around the world trades in shark worth... Instead of a man eater diving is suitable for both budget-minded and travelers... From them the largest species of coral species home to a wide variety species... Spent much time there and in Tahiti and Moorea traded in markets around the world swimming underwater is one the... Average from 3ft to 4ft for a family vacation lagoon contains coral gardens, fishing... Where you can attend regular shows throughout the week before being transformed into an International phenomenon place. A 5-hour snorkel cruise in the months of November through February when the weather is warm the. Creatures and considerfighting fear with facts go on for days or even weeks & snorkel.
New Homes In Rancho Cucamonga,
Summer Hockey League Massachusetts,
Countryside Rv Resort Park Models For Sale,
Articles D