Jeep, Summit and Motu: A Full-Day Bora Bora Adventure That Covers the Island and the Lagoon
From ragged jeep tracks to a palm-fringed motu: one day that shows both sides of Bora Bora
You step into the jeep and the island exhales: humid, fragrant air that tastes faintly of salt and crushed pandanus. The 4X4 takes a line up a rough ridge and the trees open—sudden, unreal—onto a bowl of lagoon so luminous you check your sunglasses twice. From this side of Bora Bora the water looks like stacked glass: aquamarine close to shore, graduating to deeper blues past the motus. That view is the hook, but the trip’s architecture—rock, reef, and reef-built culture—keeps you there.
Trail Wisdom
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect coral and your skin—apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding the boat and reapply on the motu.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good traction are best for rocky jeep tracks and short hill walks.
Hydrate Early and Often
Carry a refillable bottle and drink before you feel thirsty—the tropical sun and activity add up fast.
Carry a Small Dry Bag
Keep phone, camera, and wallet dry during the boat transfer and while on the motu.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Marae site viewpoints along the jeep route—ask the guide to stop for a quiet moment and context
- •A shallow sandbar near Motu FANFAN where small reef fish gather at low tide
Wildlife
Reef fish such as parrotfish and surgeonfish, Pacific herons and terns along lagoon edges
Conservation Note
Coral reefs are sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and take all trash off motus to protect nearshore habitats.
Bora Bora formed from an extinct volcano; Polynesian settlers created marae (sacred sites) where social and spiritual life centered for centuries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Wildflower blooms, Lush interior foliage
Challenges: Intermittent showers, Soggier trails
Spring (Southern Hemisphere shoulder season) brings green island interiors and occasional rains—great for plant life but pack a light rain shell.
summer
Best for: Warm lagoon swims, Longer daylight hours
Challenges: Higher humidity, Stronger sun
Summer means hot, humid days perfect for water activities—plan early starts and bring sun protection.
fall
Best for: Clear water visibility, Dry weather returning, Good boat conditions
Challenges: Variable winds some days
Fall moves toward the drier season with clearer lagoons—ideal for photography and boat crossings.
winter
Best for: Dry skies, Crisp views from lookouts, Calmer seas
Challenges: Peak travel season and higher prices
The island’s dry season runs through winter months—expect excellent visibility but more tourists and higher rates.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Trail ShoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky jeep tracks and provides traction on uneven terrain.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin while avoiding damage to coral and marine life.
Dry Bag (Small)Essential
Keeps electronics and essentials dry during boat transfers and motu time.
Light Rain Shell
Useful for sudden tropical showers while on island drives or lookouts.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The full-day combo runs about seven hours (approximately 420 minutes), including 4X4 stops, a boat transfer, and time on Motu FANFAN for lunch and beach access.
Is swimming included on the motu?
Yes—there’s time to swim and relax on the motu after the buffet; bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for shallow coral areas.
Are meals provided?
A Polynesian buffet lunch is included on Motu FANFAN featuring grilled fish, poisson cru, taro, and local fruits, plus water and juice.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes—families frequently take this tour; children should be supervised on the motu and while boarding boats.
Do I need special permits?
No permits are typically required for this tour, but follow guide instructions in protected areas and respect private motu rules.
What should I wear?
Wear quick-dry clothing, a hat, closed-toe shoes for land portions, and reef shoes or sandals for the motu and swimming.
What to Pack
Light long-sleeve shirt for sun protection; reef-safe sunscreen; reef shoes for motu shorelines; small dry bag to protect electronics and documents
Did You Know
Bora Bora’s highest point, Mount Otemanu, rises to about 727 meters (2,385 feet) and is the remnant of an extinct volcano, a central landmark visible from many island lookouts.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early in high season (May–Oct); bring local cash for small purchases; arrange pickup in Vaitape where most hotels are; expect limited cell service on motus
Local Flavor
After the tour, head to Vaitape for a casual meal—try poisson cru at a waterfront snack stand, sample local rum at a small bar, or stop by Bloody Mary's for an iconic island drink; these spots connect the day’s landscape to the island’s people and flavors.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest international gateway: Faa'a International Airport (PPT) via Papeete; then a short domestic flight to Bora Bora (BOB/Motu Mute) and a boat transfer; most tours pick up near Vaitape (10–20 minutes drive from main ferry dock); cell service is intermittent on motus; no special permits usually required.
Sustainability Note
Respect reef habitats: wear reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, pack out all trash from motus, and support operators who follow reef-protection guidelines.