Why you should choose Maupiti over Bora Bora!
When thinking of Polynesia I am sure what comes to your mind is the spectacular landscape of Bora Bora. Turquoise waters, overwater bungalows surrounded by green volcanic mountains. It’s a paradise on Earth.
But is it really the best place to visit in Polynesia? Well, the answer depends on you and what you are looking for. We have a good proposal tho: Maupiti! Let' me tell you more about it.
Taxi boat in Maupiti - The only way to get around
When we did our research before traveling to Polynesia, we talked to some local friends and other seasoned travelers, they all recommended Maupiti over Bora Bora, if you want a more authentic travel experience with equally amazing landscape. It is what Bora Bora was in the 60s, before the expensive luxury hotels and the full tourist takeover.
True remoteness in the middle of the Pacific.
Maupiti is the furthest society island in French Polynesia and you can only take flights twice a week directly from Papeete, bringing less tourists to the island. This means only a handful of tourist arriving on a small plane.
This means also that you need plan well in advance your trip to fit on one of the small plans flying to the island.
Staying with the Polynesian locals!
As I mentioned there are no hotels at all on the island. You can find 1 airbnb and 1 on booking accommodation. That’s it.
You need to search your location on Facebook, forums or Google Maps and call the numbers/send emails etc. as they usually don’t have any websites. Why is that? Because the pensions are run by local people, not professionals and you will live in private homes. It’s truly fun experience and taking you back to a more simple times.
The locals are preparing for lunch time.
The Nature of Maupiti
On the top of Maupiti - Mount Teurafaatiu
The centre of Maupiti can be only reached by little taxi boats as it’s fully covered by beautiful and often very shallow ocean. It feels like a swimming pool from heaven. On the main island you find Mount Teurafaatiu, which is a short but steep hike. It is totally worth is as it provides amazing 360 view of the island.
The island is also a busy cleaning station for Manta Rays! If you want to see these angle like creatures without a big crowed, Maupiti is for you.
Check out the full travel story below!
