Mount Otemanu
Mont Otemanu
The twin basalt peaks at the heart of Bora Bora, rising 727 meters. Their steep slopes are mirrored in the lagoon, making this the island's most recognizable postcard view.
Mont Otemanu is the remnant peak of an extinct volcano on Bora Bora. It rises about 727 meters and is built of basalt, with near-vertical slopes. Alongside it, the slightly lower Mont Pahia (about 661 meters) forms the central skyline of the island. Because the rock is brittle and crumbly, climbing Mont Otemanu is prohibited. Visitors usually admire it from lagoon boat trips, from overwater bungalows on the eastern motu, or from Matira Beach. The mountain glows golden when the evening sun hits it, which is the most spectacular time to see it. For a closer look, join a 4x4 safari tour around the island. It follows dirt tracks along the mountainside to the World War II American gun battery ruins and viewpoints overlooking the full lagoon. Fit hikers can climb Mont Pahia with a guide, a steep round trip of about 5–6 hours. Getting around: the ring road on the main island is about 32 km long. You can rent an e-bike or bicycle, or join a tour. Please note: mountain trails are slippery and steep, so a local guide is required. The summit is often shrouded in clouds, so for photos, choose the dry season and visit in the morning.
Opening hours
Open all day (view from afar)
Nearby sights
- Mount Pahia Hike
- Bora Bora Lagoon
- Marae Fare Opu
- Vaitape
- Bloody Mary's
- Bora Bora Turtle Center
- Matira Beach
- Overwater Bungalow Resorts