Plizio Visual Lab
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Leopard Ray Trench is a premier marine observation site within the iconic turquoise lagoon of Bora Bora, specifically renowned for frequent sightings of spotted eagle rays. These graceful creatures are often seen gliding in synchronized groups over the shallow, sandy floor of the lagoon, which serves as a vital feeding and resting ground. The unique geography of this underwater trench creates gentle currents that the rays utilize for movement, providing snorkelers with a front-row seat to their elegant underwater ballet. As part of a protected marine zone, the area features a rich biodiversity, where visitors can also encounter stingrays and blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat. The incredible water clarity and the bright white sand below create optimal lighting conditions for photography and for appreciating the intricate leopard-like patterns that give these majestic rays their name.
- Location: French Polynesia
- Top sights: Le Meridien Wedding Chapel · Lagoonarium · Lagoon Service Bora Bora
- Nearby: Faanui (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 198 | 174 | 142 | 118 | 93 | 60 | 42 | 42 | 34 | 72 | 111 | 216 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time is from May to October, when underwater visibility is best and rays are sighted more frequently. During summer months, the lagoons are warm and calm, handy for snorkeling.
Best time of day
Early morning, rays are often foraging in the shallow areas of the lagoon. Late afternoon, when the sun is lower, shadow contrasts are smaller and animals are easier to distinguish.
Etiquette
Touching or feeding the rays is forbidden, as it disturbs their natural behavior. Divers and snorkelers must keep a respectful distance of at least two meters.
What to bring
Good snorkeling gear with fins makes moving through the shallow lagoon water easier. A waterproof underwater camera or a housing for your camera is recommended.
Getting there
The leopard ray trench is located in Bora Bora's lagoon and is reachable by boat from main resorts. Many operators organize guided snorkeling trips to this area.
What to expect
Rays are often numerous, but they can retreat to deeper areas - stay calm in the water and wait. Sometimes it's enough to linger in one spot until the animals come closer on their own.
Geography
Facts
- Depth: 10 m (33 ft)
- Species: Spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari)
- Protected since 2010
- Visibility: up to 40 m (131 ft)
- Maximum rays observed: 50
- Water temperature: 27°C (80.6°F)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench (5)
Historic Area
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim with rays in Bora Bora?
Yes, there are many guided tours where you can safely swim with rays in the lagoon.
Are the rays dangerous?
The rays found in the lagoon are usually peaceful but should never be harassed.
What is the best time for observation?
Mornings are convenient when the water is clear and tours are less crowded.
Do I need special gear?
High-quality snorkeling gear is perfectly sufficient to see the animals underwater.
Is it allowed to feed the animals?
Avoid feeding to not interfere with the natural behavior of the wildlife.
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench: where is it located?
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench is located in French Polynesia.
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench: what is there to see?
Highlights include Le Meridien Wedding Chapel, Lagoonarium, Lagoon Service Bora Bora.
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Bora Bora Leopard Ray Trench: why is it worth visiting?
The Leopard Ray Trench is a premier marine observation site within the iconic turquoise lagoon of Bora Bora, specifically renowned for frequent sightings of spotted eagle rays.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Oceania
More places in French Polynesia →
Nearby cities
Faa'a
Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.
Papeete
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.
Puna'auia
Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.
Pirae
Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.
Vaitape
Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.
Paopao
Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.
Haapiti
Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.
Uturoa
Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.
Afareaitu
Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.
Teavaro
Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.
Faanui
Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.
Papetoai
Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.
Tevaitoa
Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.
Faie
Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.
Fare
Fare is the capital of Huahine island, offering a relaxed atmosphere with small shops and a lively harbor.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Papeete Town Hall
Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.
Vaitoare
Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.
Vaiare
Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.
Marae in Bora Bora Valley
Hidden archaeological remains in the interior of Bora Bora island.
St. Joseph Church Faanui
A charming Catholic church in Faanui village on Bora Bora.
Alain Despert Gallery
The gallery of internationally renowned artist Alain Despert on Bora Bora.
Marae Faremiro
A historic marae on Bora Bora known for its ritual stones.
Marae Vaiotaha
This historic marae on Bora Bora was once the island's most significant.