Marae in Bora Bora Valley

Deep within the lush, verdant valleys of Bora Bora's interior lie the hidden remains of ancient marae, sacred ceremonial platforms that served as the focal point of Polynesian society. Built from massive basalt stones, these structures were used for religious rituals, royal investitures, and communal gatherings long before European arrival. Because many of these sites have been reclaimed by the dense jungle, they are often difficult to locate without the assistance of a knowledgeable local guide who can navigate the overgrown trails lined with mango, breadfruit, and noni trees. Unlike the more accessible coastal marae, these valley ruins offer a serene and mystical atmosphere, preserving the spiritual essence of the island's ancestors. Exploring these sites reveals the sophisticated stonework and social organization of the early settlers, providing a stark contrast to the modern resort lifestyle of the shoreline. For visitors seeking a deeper connection to the island's authentic history, a trek into the valley to see these ancestral stones is a truly profound experience.

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

Uturoa Town Hall

The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Nature

Mount Otemanu

Mount Otemanu is the iconic landmark of Bora Bora, rising 727 meters high.

Bora Bora Turtle Center

This center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles.

Mount Pahia

Mount Pahia is the second highest peak on Bora Bora, known for its distinctive twin summits.

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.

St. Joseph Church Faanui

A charming Catholic church in Faanui village on Bora Bora.

Marae Vaiotaha

This historic marae on Bora Bora was once the island's most significant.

Marae Fare Opu

This small marae on Bora Bora is famous for its stone carvings of turtles.

Vaitape Harbor

Vaitape is the commercial heart of Bora Bora.

Marae Tara

A small, quiet marae on Bora Bora used for ancestral worship.