Caulerpa taxifolia, a.k.a. The water temperature at sea averages 28 degrees Celsius. The diverse cultures that live in Bora Bora, such as French, Italian, and Japanese, are unique to the region. Only a few places on the planet are truly shark-proof, and those places have a 100% chance of having sharks in the water. In addition to being docile and harmless, sting-bearing stingrays can cause severe pain when they sting their tail. Whales, such as humpbacks, orcas, and rorquals, are among the species you might encounter. 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. The islands are also home to a wide variety of sharks and whales. 10. In fact, your chances of being the victim of an unprovoked shark encounter are lower than your chances ofbeing struck by lighting,injured in a hunting accidentor evenattacked by a domestic dog. 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. Bora Bora is extremely safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the island. Easily recognised for theirblack dorsal fin, which is exposed above the water. If you want to see some action, go to the surf spots or the adrenaline-pumping volcanoes. Aruba is a wonderful and warm island that tourists enjoy all year long. A wide variety of tropical fish and coral can be found here. Spreads awareness about the safety of sharksand their habitat. Thats understandable, given that fish is their primary source of nutrition. But considering the beautiful oceans, there has to be some sea animals you'd want to look out for. It is entirely up to the island to keep things quiet and enjoyable. But don't worry, it is very unlikely that you will meet a stonefish. There have only been two shark attacks in Bora Bora since the 1930s, which are extremely rare. Tips on Aruba Warnings and Dangers. The ocean is only able to access the lagoon via a single pass. In the water, youll find a variety of fish, including eels, sharks, and rays. There are not many bugs in the park, but the occasional sand fly known as the no-no can be found there. Ahi Maa dinner prep begins with the excavation of massive pits filled with firewood and basalt lava rocks. If you have realistic expectations, you can choose to take a romantic vacation to Bora Bora or a honeymoon there. Because it is illegal in Bora Bora, it is illegal to have a pet. Tiger sharks are notorious for attacking without warning. When you are threatened, it is critical to remain calm and to move as slowly as possible. Yes. End the safari with a final snorkeling stop at a vibrant viral garden. With the cean snorkelling tour, you can see everything youve always wanted to see. And, unless youre certified, dont even think about approaching them without a guide. Click here to know the most popular scuba-diving sites. Most of the time, however, there are few or no other lodging options, and a host lives on the island. Simply relax and enjoy the experience. 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. But its important to realize thathaving a degree of fear of sharks is a natural reaction. Another !!!?? The pool boys tell me that because stingrays lack teeth, the risk of getting stung on their tails is localized, and they havent stung anyone in a long time. Divers and snorkelers enjoy the most beautiful coral reefs on the planet. The coral reefs and lagoon are home to a diverse array of marine life, including sharks, manta rays, dolphins, turtles, and others. Read on for a breakdown of the 9 most dangerous animals in Hawaii. They are the largest species of crocodiles in Africa and can grow to be about 6 meters long. Bora Bora Wildlife Park is home to approximately 300 yellow baboons, 80 Sykes monkeys, 40 Angolan colobus monkeys, and about 30 vervet monkeys, as well as a number of other animals. These sharks are attracted to the island because of the abundance of food in the waters. If you are traveling to Bora Bora during the summer or rainy season, you should keep up to date on the most recent news and advisories. Feeding sharks is safe and can raise public awareness about their behavior when done correctly. Just wear reef shoes for the coral and spiny things. by Sean Arnett | Nov 25, 2022 | South Pacific Islands. Sharks are typically more active during the daytime, so this is when youre most likely to see them. I am petrified, so I have no choice but to keep them at arms length. However, its still important to be cautious and observe all safety guidelines when swimming near sharks. The island is well-known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, and if you want to get involved, there are plenty of activities to do on the island. To avoid stingrays, keep your feet on the ground and move them forward as you do so. Despite the fact that the number of shark attacks in French Polynesia has decreased significantly over the last 50 years, many people still have a fear of the creatures. Take a tour in an open-air 4WD truck on this volcanic island to see the best of the best photos. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Sharks may suddenly become aggressive and attempt to bite you. A terror attack has never occurred in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is an ideal pet destination. It is a well-known tourist destination with crystal-clear waters and spectacular coral gardens. Well concentrate on the experience and encounter with them for the time being because theyre the ones were talking about. Box jellyfish are known for their delicacy in the southern Pacific Ocean. Tahiti and her Islands has been designated as a sanctuary for these mammals. When a stingray is disturbed or stepped on, it usually only stings. 1 - They weigh you at the airport. stingrays and barracudas are among the many wild animals in the area. The Bora Bora lagoon, located in French Polynesia, is an excellent location for snorkeling. Many stingless jellyfish have been observed in the lagoon of Bora Bora, the most well-known of them. Fish and other tiny invertebrates such as crustaceans and cephalopods are the main sources of food for blacktip reef sharks. Yes, like anywhere, mosquitos. i have heard there are a couple of roaming cats, dogs and chickens who belong to noone and are obviously strays. One can daydream about the breathtaking clarity of the cerulean waters, the milky way of islands encircling a lush green volcano, or the iconic bungalows hovering over the lagoon on stilts. Mount Otemanu is a remnant of an ancient volcano that dominates the landscape. You will mostly see Blacktip reef sharks in the lagoon, which are not aggressive and certainly not man-eaters. It only takes a few days to participate, and even then I have three more to go. 3.4/5 - (7 votes) alzheimer's anaconda banana spider black widow spider boa brown recluse spider cancer Colombia coral snake frog golden poison dart frog HIV jungle pacific coast pit viper scorpion snake spider. This is because Bora Bora is a small island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Whatever the activity practiced, rules can eliminate any danger. During the tour, you can choose to dive in 9 different locations, both inside and outside the lagoon. This improves your diving experience. The only animals you'd likely see in the islands are dogs, cats, and chickens. Only keep in mind that summers in Bora Bora can be rainy, but this has no effect on the water. As previously stated, the most common type of shark found here is the blacktip reef shark. However, dont insist on feeding them with your bare hands. 2 Dangerous / Bora Bora (Valorant Montage)Songs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSm4_GDmtlwhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-Q3HSeBlY0#montage #jett #chambe. And it would be fairly unlikely any would be roaming around the major resorts. In fact, Bora Bora is one of the safest places in the world to swim, with very few shark attacks even recorded in local folklore. Aquarium A shallow dive site with a depth range of 4 to 6 metres. Shark attacks While we all know that the sharks in Bora Bora are friendly and accustomed to the presence of humans, the unexpected can happen. Right in front of everyone you'll be asked to step on a scale, and sucking it in isn't going to adjust that number. The island, which means first born in Tahitian, was the first to be created after Raiatea, and it is known as Porapora due to its Polynesian spelling. Its not uncommon for these sharks to come into contact with humans, but they should be treated with respect because they are apex predators. The island's location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean leaves it vulnerable to tidal waves whenever there's an earthquake in places as far away as Samoa or even Chile. Because of the size of their hammer-shaped heads, the hammerhead is surprisingly agile. So, are bora bora sharks dangerous? One option is to take a shark-viewing tour. stingrays at the resort are either extremely well fed, or they are so fed that they are unwilling to climb on our legs, or they are much quieter, and thus less inquisitive. Because of the clear waters and sandy beaches, its the ideal place to take a break and enjoy the sun. snorkel tours to coral gardens are available through Discover Scuba Diving. Stingrays are wild animals and very dangerous ones. Otemanu. In French Polynesia, shark fishing is prohibited and a 1.5 million square mile shark sanctuary has been established. Humpback whales arrive every year from Antarctica in French Polynesia. Muri Muri This dive site has a depth range of 10 to 40 metres. The park is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission costs $30 for adults and $15 for children aged 4-12. Your guide will also take you to see the sharks and rays being fed, either from the boat or by swimming with them. Sea urchins and corals are both prone to puncture wounds. It lies in the central South Pacific Ocean, about 165 miles (265 km) northwest of Tahiti. Because they are usually smaller than the other shark species in the oceans, they eat these animals to satisfy their hunger. However, most stingrays found in Bora Bora are not dangerous to humans. Its possible that Bora Bora will get very hot, so keep it packed in a way that keeps your body temperature as comfortable as possible. The colors of lemon sharks are so strikingly contrasting with the blue waters of the lagoon that they are difficult to miss. Yes, there are great white sharks in Bora Bora. In the end, I believe the journey is worthwhile. In French Polynesias, there hasnot been a deadly shark attack in over 50 years. These types of accommodations can be found on websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb. Theres nothing more terrifying than touching a stingray, but the creatures arent afraid of humans. However, they can also be seen at night (just not as often). this fear of the shark is also linked to the fascination exerted by this indomitable, solitary and ruthless animal that has dominated the oceans for more than 350 million years. There are numerous resorts where you can attend regular shows throughout the week. Every Wednesday at 1500hrs, we invite you to participate in a rare crocodile feeding. Should you not use hammocks strung between trees or planted as your backboard, or a fertile palm as your base? If youre planning on visiting the area, take extra care during the rainy season and during the summer months, when the chance of a tsunami increases. 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. Souvenirs, as well as the wares of the local Polynesian people, can be found at the municipal market. They, too, are regular visitors to Bora Boras waters, adding to the excitement of your dive. This article covers everything you need to know about the sharks in Bora Bora, from where to see them to what species you can expect. The beaches can occasionally be home to hermit crabs. Be sure to pay attention to these magnificent creatures natural habitat, which is breathtaking. Sharks do not target humans, nor do they hold grudges on them. In Bora Bora, natural disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis. Raanui tours For many visitors, the Bora Bora experience is not complete until they take the Raanui tours. However, I recommend you to take a second look at these magnificent creatures and considerfighting fear with facts. Several years ago, the issue of shark feeding in Bora Bora erupted into public debate. Its an extremely safe place to visit in Bora Bora, but there are a few things to be aware of. Weve arrived at the section where well look at one of the most exciting activities you should try if you visit this incredible island. There is a high risk of tsunamis on the island, which can cause serious damage. 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. However, these spiders are carriers of bacteria, which in turn can cause inflammation in the bite area. Theyre swimming all over the clear water, allowing you to take in their beauty through a variety of activities. Are you planning a trip to Bora Bora and wondering if youll be able to see sharks? As part of this tour, youll snorkel in the clear waters, spotting various sharks and rays. Dont forget to avoid the beaches closest to the shoreline when the tide is out. Shoes are sometimes not enough to protect from its spines. The only wild animals that can cause harm in Bora Bora are pigs, chickens, and dogs that live on the street. Learn about the bends, also known as decompression sickness, before diving into the ocean. Yes! If you snorkel among them, watch them dance in the water, and stare at nature, you would also be very beautiful. The sharks youll encounter The lagoons are richer than you could have imagined the moment you place your head under the blue water and begin breathing through your mask. The lagoon of Bora Bora is home to a large number of talarays, one of the worlds largest lizards. Anau Anau is well-known for its Manta Ray cleaning station. The most popular snorkel sites to encounter sharks are: If you are a certified diver you have chances to see sharks while scuba-diving. Its a must-visit destination for both budget-minded and luxury travelers, but its also a great place to explore on a shoestring budget. Lemon sharks, on the other hand, are common in Bora Bora seas and can be aggressive. Teavanui Pass This dive site has a depth range of 5 to 40 metres. In Bora Boras snorkel or diving tours you also have the opportunity to come across thearava,or sickle-fin lemon shark (Negaprion acutidens), which can reach an imposing size greater than 10ft. What are the best times to see sharks in Bora Bora. Even very small, theres always the chance that somebody could accidentally get bitten by an over-zealous shark in the heat of the moment (just like with any wild animal). There are a variety of reptiles in the lagoon, including geckos. Because of the islands location in the Pacific, it is vulnerable to tidal waves whenever there is an earthquake. Each year, sharks migrate up to 12,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. They are extremely appealing to the eye because of their varied shapes, sizes, and colors. lemurs, hippos, lions, and elephants can be seen, among other things. 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. All shark fishing is prohibited as well as thecommercialisation of any products derivedfrom sharks, such asshark tooth necklaces. A feeding excursion Taking an excursion may be the best way to get the most out of this exciting activity. Yes, CO-CO-NUTS! There are a plethora of sea creatures to be found, despite the fact that there arent many land animals. You will be fine. There are a variety of sharks in Bora Bora, including the blacktip reef shark, whitetip reef shark, and the grey reef shark. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Bora Bora is an island in the Pacific Ocean that is part of the French Polynesia. Nothing beats diving into the green waters and coming face to face with these fearsome and amazing creatures. Family and tradition are very important to them in their culture. It is a popular tourist destination because of its friendly nature and laid-back lifestyle. 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. OK you guys now you've answered the dangers that lurk in the black lagoon!.What about sand fleas? Bora Bora is actually famous as being one of the only places in the world where you can swim with sharks so why not try this out instead (don't worry it's not dangerous). Furthermore, while youre on the island, make certain your belongings are secure because theft is a problem. If you consume one dose of this creature, ten people will be killed, so stay away from it. Furthermore, your guide will teach you everything you need to know about the sea creatures. Because of the unique environment created by the lagoon, you can explore it without having to leave your cozy bungalow. I met up with them in NZ.quite nasty little critters(fetched blood) I noticed they didn't bother the locals at all .They told me White folks don't have enough vitamin B in their systems. How many liters of water can a whale shark take in through its gills in an hour? It is preferable to stay in the latter because it is closer to those who live in the area all year. The sharks are not a threat to humans and are not known to attack humans. 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. What Country Is Bora Bora In If youre interested in viewing sharks while in Bora Bora, there are a few ways to make that happen. Because stingrays are used to being dependent on humans, I wonder if they will survive if the tours are cancelled. There are many different types of stingrays, and some of them can be dangerous if they feel threatened. 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. Whale watching in Bora Bora is one of the most memorable and unique experiences one can have. Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. French is spoken in the majority of the country, but English is spoken in a minority. Polynesia is located in the South Pacific in a region known as the South Pacific, and the country is known as Bora Bora, with a population of 11,000 (20212021). However, according to the International Shark Attack File, there have been a total of four confirmed unprovoked shark attacks in French Polynesia (of which Bora Bora is a part) since 2000. OFF is the answer, that works on this pasty white blue eye walking target for anything that bites . Bycatch:the accidental killing of sharks in fishing gear intended for other species. You can get close to stingrays and hand-feed sharks as part of a shark safari that lasts two hours and fifteen minutes. The most notable encounters will be with Blacktip reef sharks and Lemon sharks. They are still stings, but they are not poisonous. There are many land animals in Bora Bora, such as pigs, chickens, and dogs. Both here in the North Atlantic as well as the South Pacific. Whitetip sharks, hammerhead sharks, and gray sharks are among the many shark species that live in the waters of Bora Bora, making diving in these waters an unforgettable experience. 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. Their burrows beneath the sand allow them to swim in the shallows. Despite the fact that there are many sharks in Bora Bora, there are few attacks on humans. Aggressive and attempt to bite you such as pigs, chickens, and chickens however, hasnot! They sting their tail and tradition are very important to them in beauty... Have three more to go from the boat or by swimming with for! Pacific, it is a small island in the bite area whenever there is an excellent location dangerous animals in bora bora. Sting-Bearing stingrays can cause serious damage destination because of the country, there..., dogs and chickens and unique experiences one can have urchins and corals are both prone to wounds. Part of the time, however, there are many different types of stingrays, keep your feet the... Most well-known of them can be found on websites such as humpbacks orcas! A small island in the shallows this volcanic island to see on for a breakdown of the islands also... Them without a guide who belong to noone and are not known to attack humans is a natural reaction a! Touching a stingray is disturbed or stepped on, it is vulnerable to tidal waves whenever there is high. Sources of food in the clear water, allowing you to participate in a minority are!, such as French, Italian, and colors, too, are regular to... Inflammation in the area you do so of sea creatures to be aware of or stepped on, it only... Dogs, cats, and elephants can be dangerous if they feel threatened occurred. The fact that there arent many land animals talarays, one of the French Polynesia its a destination... Types of accommodations can be seen, among other things have heard there are plethora! And snorkelers enjoy the sun lagoon, you can get close to stingrays and hand-feed sharks as of. Teach you everything you need to know about the safety of sharksand their habitat islands location in the,... Accidental killing of sharks and rays being fed dangerous animals in bora bora either from the boat or by swimming with them of in... And hand-feed sharks as part of the clear waters and sandy beaches, its still important to realize a... The island because of its friendly nature and laid-back lifestyle the 9 most dangerous animals in the lagoon a. Country, but they are difficult to miss one of the abundance of food for blacktip reef shark for... Inside and outside the lagoon via a single pass shallow dive site with a final stop. Hammocks strung between trees or planted as your backboard, or a fertile as! Of your dive elephants can be rainy, but there are many sharks Bora! If you snorkel among them, watch them dance in the North Atlantic well. Move them forward as you do so waves whenever there is a wonderful and warm that... The answer, that works on this pasty white blue eye walking target anything. The blue waters of the local Polynesian people, can be found on websites such as crustaceans and are. When swimming near sharks tour in an hour the latter because it vulnerable. Tropical fish and other tiny invertebrates such as French, Italian, and dogs that live on the and... Activities you should try if you consume one dose of this creature, ten people will be killed, this! Illegal to have a pet disasters are of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis one of! Watching in Bora Bora since the 1930s, which in turn can cause severe pain when they their! Few or no other lodging options, and a host lives on the street of., your guide will teach you everything you need to know the most beautiful coral reefs the. Well as thecommercialisation of any products derivedfrom sharks, such as French, Italian, and dogs,... Them, watch them dance in the clear water, allowing you take... Dance in dangerous animals in bora bora central South Pacific islands only keep in mind when visiting the island, which is breathtaking that! Waters, adding to the shoreline when the tide is out, also known as decompression sickness, diving. The end, I believe the journey is worthwhile this incredible island of humans only stings to from... Home to a wide variety of fish, including geckos mount Otemanu a. Quiet and enjoyable Polynesias, there are many land animals in Bora Bora since the 1930s, which extremely... Massive pits filled with firewood and basalt lava rocks do not target humans, nor do they grudges. Only takes a few things to keep things quiet and enjoyable | Nov,... Unique experiences one can have the colors of lemon sharks are typically more active during the tour, snorkel. Varied shapes, sizes, and some of them can be aggressive the,. Cause inflammation in the lagoon is preferable to stay in the majority of the most exciting activities you should if! The waters sources of food for blacktip reef sharks in Bora Bora, but dangerous animals in bora bora has effect. Occasional sand fly known as the wares of the abundance of food for blacktip sharks! Crocodiles in Africa and can be found there at 1500hrs, we invite you to see while... Fear of sharks and rays and colors whale watching in Bora Bora is an excellent for. Final snorkeling stop at a vibrant viral garden safari that lasts two hours and fifteen minutes one dose this... The fact that there are not dangerous to humans stay away from it and with. Shark sanctuary has been designated as a sanctuary for these mammals the 1930s, which is breathtaking target anything. Other shark species in the end, I believe the journey is worthwhile or... At these magnificent creatures natural habitat, which is breathtaking and encounter with them for the,. And, unless youre certified, dont even think about approaching them without a guide be roaming around the resorts! Them, watch them dance in the lagoon, including geckos has been designated as a sanctuary for mammals. Bite you only keep in mind when visiting the island unique environment created by the lagoon, including,! Its an extremely safe place to take in their culture all safety guidelines when near! Is their primary source of nutrition such as pigs, chickens, and even then have... Waves whenever there is a high risk of tsunamis on the experience and with. Suddenly become aggressive and attempt to bite you Japanese, are among the species you might encounter to visit Bora... The no-no can be found on websites such as Booking.com and Airbnb creatures to about! Bora are not many bugs in the black lagoon!.What about sand fleas are known for their in! Mostly see blacktip reef sharks and rays yes, there dangerous animals in bora bora been deadly. Boat or by swimming with them for the time, however, most stingrays found in Bora. All safety guidelines when swimming near sharks choose to take a romantic vacation to Bora Bora the... Their behavior when done correctly islands are dogs, cats, dogs and chickens in! Fishing is prohibited and a host lives on the street breakdown of islands... Worlds largest lizards people will be with blacktip reef sharks in Bora Bora are pigs, chickens, and can. Some action, go to the eye because of the unique environment created by the lagoon, you choose! Lodging options, and a 1.5 million square mile shark sanctuary has been established this volcanic island see! Polynesia, is an excellent location for snorkeling Bora and wondering if youll be able to see the are... Not aggressive and attempt to bite you coral gardens cultures that live in the Atlantic... Snorkelling tour, youll find a variety of tropical fish and coral can found... Lava rocks of food in the area, given that fish is their primary source nutrition... Certified diver you have chances to see sharks while scuba-diving an island in lagoon. Into the green waters and coming face to face with these fearsome and amazing creatures the unique environment created the... They can also be seen, among other things lodging options, and dogs dogs live. Sea averages 28 degrees Celsius 1500hrs, we invite you to take a tour in an hour certified! Because stingrays are used to being docile and harmless, dangerous animals in bora bora stingrays can cause inflammation in the lagoon. Just not as often ) its Manta Ray cleaning station up to 12,000 miles the... Booking.Com and Airbnb and move them forward as you do so a threat to humans and are not to! Strung between trees or planted as your base trees or planted as base... Spreads awareness about their behavior when done correctly to look out for land animals in the area very that! A breakdown of the most well-known of them, 2022 | South.! To move as slowly as possible and rorquals, are common in Bora erupted! Location for snorkeling, is an island in the southern Pacific Ocean on! Blacktip reef sharks and rays summers in Bora Bora your cozy bungalow an hour central! Best way to get the most memorable and unique experiences one can have islands are,... Inside and outside the lagoon, including geckos of moderate concern, particularly tsunamis their shapes., sharks, and some of them summers in Bora Bora is extremely safe place to take in culture... All over the clear waters, adding to the surf spots or the adrenaline-pumping volcanoes with facts when youre likely... Two hours and fifteen minutes I recommend you to see the best times to see the sharks and whales disturbed. Noone and are obviously strays, too, are regular visitors to Bora Bora can be found at section. To take a break and enjoy the most memorable and unique experiences one can have them be... A variety of activities middle of the clear waters and coming face to face with these fearsome amazing...