Fa'anui: Marae Fare-Opu and hiking trails

Explore Fa'anui through three specific questions: What is the history of Marae Fare-Opu, where does the walk from the village lead, and how does the guided hike differ? When choosing a holiday rental, these distinctions can help you narrow down what you want to focus on during your stay. History and activity offer different ways to include Fa'anui and Bora Bora in your travel plans.

Marae Fare-Opu and its history

Marae Fare-Opu is in Faanui Bay, near the lagoon and opposite the Teavanui Pass. Its location offers three clear points of reference: the bay, the lagoon and the pass. The land on which the marae stands bears its name and belongs to the descendants of the family of the high chief Ma’i. Ma’i ruled over part of Bora Bora in the 15th or 16th century. The marae thus brings together a local name, family ties and the history of a leader. The ownership information refers to the land where the marae stands; Ma’i’s rule, in turn, extended over part of Bora Bora. For travellers interested in history, this is a specific place associated with a person from a particular period and a distinct family history.

From the village to the viewpoint and onward to the cannons

An easy walk of less than two kilometres leads from Faanui village to a viewpoint. Continue along the ridge trail to two American cannons from Operation Bobcat in the Second World War. The route is easy to follow: the walk leads to the viewpoint, and the ridge trail continues on to the cannons. You can decide whether the walk to the viewpoint is enough or whether you would also like to include the continuation in your plans. Check local conditions before setting out.

A guided hike as a longer option

A private guided hike on Bora Bora starts at around 8:30 a.m. at Faanui Church. The circular route is four kilometres long, has little elevation gain and takes about three to four hours. It is suitable for beginners. In addition to the distance, the circular route and elevation gain provide further points to consider when choosing a hike. If you are travelling with children, you can factor the approximate duration into your plans for the day. Availability and conditions may change; check both in advance for your preferred date.

Factor hiking ideas into your choice of location

The two hiking ideas offer different experiences: an easy walk from the village to a viewpoint, with the option to continue to the cannons, or a private circular hike lasting about three to four hours. So when comparing them, consider more than just the distance: the destination, elevation profile and time required also matter. The starting points can help guide your choice of holiday rental: the walk starts in Faanui village, while the guided hike starts at Faanui Church. If either activity suits your plans, consider Fa'anui as a possible base.

Discover more destinations: Faie, Tefareri'i, Fare, Opoa, Uturoa, Pātio, Tapu'amu, Vaitape.

For the main travel overview: Leeward Islands.