Bora Bora: 4WD Island Tour with WWII Sites & Local Farm

Summary

Circle bora bora by 4wd meet artisans taste fruit see history

You’ll circle Bora Bora by 4WD with a local guide, stopping at WWII canons hidden in lush hillsides and meeting artisans who make sarongs by hand. Taste fresh fruit at a small family plantation and catch glimpses of daily island life along the way. Expect salty breezes, easy laughter, and moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely pulled away from the hotel when our driver, Manu, started pointing out the different shades of blue in the lagoon — he said there’s a word in Tahitian for each one. I tried to repeat one back to him (failed miserably), but he just grinned and kept driving. The air smelled like salt and something sweet I couldn’t place until we passed a roadside stand selling pineapples. The 4WD rumbled as we climbed up toward Matira lookout, wind coming through the windows and making my hair stick to my face. You really do see the whole island on this circle tour — it’s not huge, but every corner feels different.

At Faanui Canon, Manu stopped so we could clamber up to these old WWII artillery pieces tucked into the trees. He told us about the Americans building them during the war — apparently his grandfather used to bring him here as a kid. There was this funny silence while we all looked out over the bay; you can hear birds and sometimes just your own breathing. After that, we visited a tiny workshop where two women showed us how they dye sarongs with hibiscus flowers (the colors get everywhere). I bought one even though I have no idea how to tie it properly — Li laughed when I tried to say “pareo” in French.

The last stop was a family-run plantation. We walked between rows of papaya trees while their dog followed us around, tail wagging like crazy. They handed us slices of starfruit and coconut — honestly, nothing tastes quite like fruit straight off the tree in Bora Bora. The sun was already dipping lower when we got back in the jeep, sticky-fingered and kind of tired in that good way you get after being outside all day. Sometimes I still think about that view from Amanahune Bay; it’s not something you can really photograph right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day 4WD island tour

• Circle Bora Bora island by 4WD
• Stop at East Matira lookout
• Visit Faanui Canon lookout
• See Amanahune Bay lookout
• Explore WWII canons
• Visit sarong and coconut oil workshop
• Taste fruits at small plantation

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Bora Bora 4WD tour?

Yes, hotel or port pickup is included from mainland Bora Bora hotels.

How long does the half-day island tour last?

The tour is half-day; exact times may vary but expect several hours exploring.

What are some stops on this circle island tour?

You’ll stop at Matira lookout, Faanui Canon (WWII site), Amanahune Bay, an artisan workshop, and a small plantation.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No full lunch is included but you’ll taste fresh fruits at a local farm.

Are there any physical restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Will I learn about Bora Bora’s history?

Yes, your guide will share stories about WWII artifacts and island culture throughout the trip.

Is this suitable for kids or families?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not ideal for infants unless they’re on an adult’s lap.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or port on mainland Bora Bora, guidance from a local expert who shares stories along the route, stops at World War II canons and scenic lookouts, visits to an artisan workshop where sarongs are made, plus time tasting fresh fruits at a small family farm before heading back feeling sun-warmed and happy.