Traveling to Bora Bora? You’re probably dreaming of turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. This particular tour, offered by Bora Bora Activities Center, promises a full day of exploring both land and lagoon with a mix of off-road excitement, water speed, and a delicious Polynesian BBQ on a secluded motu. It’s a package that appeals to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, especially if you’re after a well-rounded taste of the island in a single day.
What really caught our eye about this experience? First, the fact that you get to discover Bora Bora’s land and lagoon in one go—something that makes the day feel packed with variety. Second, the local guides seem genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, adding an authentic touch that enhances the trip. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that it’s a full day, which might be demanding if you prefer slow-paced or relaxing activities. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a dynamic, active day with a good mix of adventure and cultural insights.
Key Points
- Combines land and water exploration on a single day for a comprehensive island experience
- Guided by local, native guides, offering authentic stories and insights
- Includes a Polynesian BBQ lunch on a remote motu, providing a taste of local cuisine
- Limited small group size (up to 8 participants), ensuring personalized attention
- Offers a mix of off-road ATV riding and jet skiing—perfect for adventure enthusiasts
- Not suitable for pregnant women or mobility-impaired visitors
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting the Day: ATV Adventure
Your day kicks off around 9:00 am with an exciting ATV tour. We loved the way this segment gives you a broad view of Bora Bora—driving through three off-road trails, visiting three lookout points, and checking out the historic WWII guns. These guns, still visible from the past, add a dash of history that might surprise some travelers. Our guides, who are native to the island, provided engaging commentary about each stop, sharing stories about the island’s past and nature.
The off-road trails are designed to showcase Bora Bora’s diverse terrain, moving through lush foliage and revealing glimpses of the island’s true wilderness. The lookouts provide stunning vistas—perfect for photos—and the guides are keen to point out local flora, fauna, and hidden stories. Along the way, you’ll enjoy refreshments such as tropical fruits, local juice, coconut cake, and plenty of water, which keep you energized through the adventure.
What to Expect:
– About 2 hours of ATV riding
– Visits to 3 lookouts with panoramic views
– A quick look at WWII guns, adding historical context
– Local guides sharing insights about Bora Bora’s land and history
– Refreshments and snacks included
What Reviewers Say:
Morgane from Belgium called it “a super day,” highlighting the ATV tour as a perfect way to circle the island and enjoy its natural beauty. She appreciated the informative guides and the delicious snacks provided. Another reviewer praised the guides’ professionalism, saying Caleb’s explanations made the exploration even more enjoyable.
The Lagoon & Jet Ski Adventure
After a morning of land exploration, you’ll break for lunch at noon, heading to a Motu—a small islet—by jet ski. This part of the tour combines the thrill of speeding across the lagoon with the relaxation of a tropical meal. The Polynesian BBQ menu is quite hearty, featuring grilled chicken, grilled fish, salad rice, raw fish with coconut milk, and sweet treats like banana donuts and coconut bread. Many reviews mention how delicious the food is and how special the setting feels, dining on a remote motu, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
The jet ski segment lasts around 3 hours, giving you time to explore the lagoon, stop at a famous natural sand bar (known for being “good for the skin”), and visit a volcanic lagoon. There’s also a stop at a Motu where you’ll enjoy your barbecue meal. During the jet ski ride, guides provide commentary about the lagoon’s geology and marine life, possibly including sightings of manta rays, according to Morgane’s review.
What to Expect:
– Guided jet ski tour around Bora Bora’s lagoon
– Stops at a Motu for a Polynesian barbecue lunch
– Visits to the natural sand bar and volcanic lagoon
– A chance to see the lagoon’s vibrant marine environment
– Refreshments during the ride
What Reviewers Say:
Chris from the US called the guides “friendly, entertaining, and great,” and the BBQ “awesome,” highly recommending the experience. Florian from France highlighted the beautiful lagoon views and praised Caleb for his professionalism and explanations, making the whole day a fantastic discovery.
Practicalities and Tips
This tour runs for about 6 hours, starting early in the morning and wrapping up in the early afternoon. The small group format (up to 8 participants) makes it more intimate, and guides are bilingual, speaking both French and English. The pickup is only available by car on the main island, so you’ll want to plan for that in your logistics.
You’ll need a driver’s license to operate the ATV or jet ski, which is standard. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users—so plan accordingly. Be sure to bring your ID, and if you want to enjoy the water activities, wear swimwear and bring a towel.
On the value front, considering the combination of land and lagoon exploration paired with a traditional Polynesian BBQ, many see this as a well-balanced experience for the price. It’s a full, active day but worth it if you’re looking to maximize your time on Bora Bora with a mix of adventure and cultural flavor.
Authentic Experiences and Real-World Insights
Based on reviews, the guides are a standout feature—knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share their local insights. Morgane appreciated the “super journée” with the quad and jet ski, especially noting the snorkeling opportunity to see manta rays, which adds a memorable marine highlight.
The food also gets high praise, with many travelers describing the BBQ on the motu as “delicious” and “filling,” making the afternoon meal a highlight rather than just a break. The combination of adventure and relaxation seems to strike the right balance for most.
While the tour is quite active, the pace is generally considered good, though it might be tiring if you prefer a slow day. The small group size helps maintain a friendly, personalized vibe, and the guides’ local knowledge enriches the experience beyond just the rides.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits adventure lovers who enjoy being on the water and exploring on land, and those eager to see multiple facets of Bora Bora in a single day. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in local culture, history, and cuisine. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or mobility-challenged travelers, so keep that in mind.
If you’re traveling with a group that enjoys active pursuits, this tour offers a comprehensive, fun-packed day that feels well-organized and authentic. Families with older children might find it suitable, provided they’re comfortable with the activities.
Bora Bora: Combo ATV & Jet Ski Day Trip with Polynesian BBQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driver’s license for this tour?
Yes, you need a driver’s license to operate the ATV and jet ski, which is standard for watercraft and off-road vehicles.
What are the start times?
The tour begins at 9:00 am for the ATV segment and continues with jet skiing around noon. Check availability for exact starting times.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s mostly geared toward adults and older children comfortable with water and off-road activities. It’s not explicitly family-friendly for younger kids.
Is pickup included?
Pickup is available only by car on the main island of Bora Bora, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.
How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 6 hours, including all activities and lunch.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothes for the land and water segments.
Is there a lot of waiting or downtime?
No, the schedule is quite tight, with each part of the day planned smoothly for a full experience without long waits.
If you’re looking for an experience that combines thrill, culture, and incredible views, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember, it’s a full day, so come prepared to move and explore. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or simply want an authentic day on Bora Bora, this trip has a lot to offer—and the glowing reviews from past travelers confirm it’s quite a hit.
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