Bora Bora is more than just a postcard-perfect island; it’s a playground for those eager to explore its vibrant waters, lush interior, and fascinating history. With crystal-clear lagoons teeming with manta rays, reef sharks, and colorful fish, it’s no surprise that snorkeling tours dominate the top experiences. We love the Reef Discovery Half Day Group Signature Tour for its ease, expert guidance, and awe-inspiring marine encounters, like swimming alongside manta rays and eagle rays. For those who want to see the island from a different perspective, a Bora Bora ATV-Quad Tour offers spectacular views from the mountain summits, providing both adventure and insight into Polynesian culture.
Whether you’re after a laid-back cruise, an adrenaline-pumping jet ski trip, or an immersive land tour, Bora Bora’s diverse tours cater to all tastes. From private boat excursions to family-friendly safaris, this list highlights the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty and local charm. Scroll down for detailed descriptions of each tour and find your perfect match.
- 1. Reef Discovery Half Day Group Signature Tour
- 2. Half day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour in Bora Bora
- 3. Bora Bora Atv-Quad Tours
- 4. Bora Bora Half Day 4X4 Island Safari Tours
- 5. Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise
- 6. Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour
- 7. Tohora Bora Bora Snorkeling Lagoon Tours
- 8. Island Tour & Getaway on the Bora Bora Mountains by Quad / ATV
- 9. Maitai Tours Self-Drive Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour
- 10. Bora Bora Island Tour By Jet Ski
- 11. NEW!!! ATV TOURS with a local tour guide
- 12. Reef Discovery Private Half Day Lagoon Tour
- 13. Half day lagoon safari tour in Bora Bora – Shared tour
- 14. Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour
- 15. Bora Bora Lagoon Snorkeling Tour by Private Boat
- How to Choose the Right Tour
1. Reef Discovery Half Day Group Signature Tour
Snorkeling in Bora Bora’s vibrant coral reefs is a must, and this guided tour makes it effortless. Towels and snorkeling gear are included so you can travel light, and the tour features three incredible stops: manta rays, coral gardens, and shallow waters with reef sharks and stingrays. A qualified guide points out marine life and shares insights about the underwater ecosystem, making it suitable for beginners. The tour also offers hotel pickup and drop-off, adding convenience to your adventure.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of ease, expert supervision, and the chance to swim with manta rays—a highlight for many travelers. Reviews consistently praise the guides and the variety of marine encounters. For around $143, this 3.5-hour trip delivers excellent value and unforgettable underwater sights. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of education and fun without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers of all levels, this tour offers hassle-free access to Bora Bora’s most iconic marine life in a relaxed setting.
2. Half day Snorkeling Shared Boat Tour in Bora Bora
This tour hits the best spots of the lagoon with a knowledgeable captain at the helm. Leaving from Vaitape, the shared boat snorkel tour is a favorite for families and nature lovers alike. It’s a relaxed, all-included experience—just hop aboard for about 3.5 hours and cruise to three or four of Bora Bora’s prime snorkeling sites, selected based on conditions and wildlife activity.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, making logistics seamless. Reviewers rave about guides like Vincent and Rudolph, who add a personal touch and share extensive local knowledge. Expect to see eagle rays, manta rays, vibrant coral gardens, and even dolphins. The price point (~$130) offers great value, especially given the small group size and flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free snorkeling experience in Bora Bora’s lagoon without the need for technical gear or strenuous activity.
3. Bora Bora Atv-Quad Tours
Exploring Bora Bora by ATV is a terrific way to see the island’s interior and learn about Polynesian culture. This small-group tour includes snacks and refreshments, and the 3-hour ride takes you up to breathtaking viewpoints such as Mount Popoti and the Rock of Anau. Your guide, Santi or Tuari, shares stories of local history and traditions along the way, making it both an adventure and an educational experience.
Guests praise how easy the ATVs are to operate and how the tour caters to different ages and skill levels. The highlight is reaching the summit for panoramic views of the lagoon and neighboring islands. Reviewers like the fact that the tour is personalized and not overcrowded, with plenty of stops for photos and cultural insights. For roughly $229 per group, it’s a good deal for active travelers seeking unique vistas and culture.
Bottom Line: A fun, engaging way to combine land exploration with cultural learning, especially suitable for active families or groups.
4. Bora Bora Half Day 4X4 Island Safari Tours
If you want a view of Bora Bora from the rugged side, this half-day safari delivers. Riding in an open-sided 4WD, you’ll visit WWII gun emplacements, lush valleys, and the Mount Popoti lookout, which offers sweeping views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. The tour also includes a visit to a local art gallery and a tropical fruit tasting, providing cultural flavor and tasty bites.
Riders love the balance of scenic vistas and historical sites, with many reviewers mentioning the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see parts of the island inaccessible by car. At just over $107 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive half day on the island. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of nature, history, and culture with a bit of off-road adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to combine scenic views, culture, and history in a manageable half-day trip.
5. Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour & Eco Shark / Ray Snorkel Cruise
For thrill-seekers, this 6.5-hour combo tour combines jet skiing with a snorkel safari that includes reef sharks and rays. You’ll zip across Bora Bora’s lagoon on a single or double Jet Ski, exploring remote spots with a guide who shares insights into marine life, culture, and island stories. The tour also includes a boat trip to snorkel with sharks and rays, a lunch, and hotel transfers.
Guests rave about seeing manta rays and eagle rays in the wild, with many emphasizing how unique and exciting the experience is. The tour is pricier at $323, but it delivers a full day of adventure, ideal for active travelers wanting a mix of speed and underwater exploration. The inclusion of lunch and transport makes it an all-in-one option for thrill lovers.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for adrenaline junkies and underwater explorers wanting a comprehensive, action-packed day.
6. Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour
If you prefer a shorter, high-energy ride, this 2-hour jet ski tour offers a chance to race around the lagoon solo or with a partner. Guided by a friendly instructor, you’ll pass by water bungalows and Mount Otemanu, with plenty of photo stops along the way. Hotel pickups make logistics easy, and bottled water keeps you refreshed.
Reviews highlight the fun, safety, and the stunning scenery. Maui, the guide, is praised for his professionalism and friendliness. At $176, it’s a good value for a quick, exciting tour that offers a taste of Bora Bora’s beauty without taking up your whole day. Suitable for those seeking a fun, active experience with a view.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but wanting a memorable, exhilarating ride around Bora Bora.
7. Tohora Bora Bora Snorkeling Lagoon Tours
This small-group snorkeling tour is tailored for a personal experience, with no more than six guests. You’ll wear provided gear and explore manta rays, tropical fish, and coral reefs. During whale season, there’s even a chance to see whales in their natural habitat. Guides share insights about the reef’s ecosystem and local wildlife, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers.
The tour lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours, with hotel pickup available. Reviewers mention how well the guide, who has a passion for marine life, makes the experience memorable. It’s a calm, intimate way to see Bora Bora’s underwater world up close, with prices around $175.78 making it a good value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, educational snorkeling experience in the lagoon.
8. Island Tour & Getaway on the Bora Bora Mountains by Quad / ATV
This mountain and island tour combines scenic drives and cultural stops in an ATV. Starting from Vaitape, you’ll see Mount Otemanu and the famous Amanahune plateau. Highlights include a tropical fruit tasting and panoramic views from Mount Popoti. The 3-hour ride is led by guides who share stories about Bora Bora’s history and traditions.
Guests appreciate how accessible it is, even for those new to ATVs. Many reviews mention the outstanding views and the fun of off-road riding. At about $280 per group, it offers excellent value, especially for active travelers seeking both adventure and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, active tour that combines nature, culture, and spectacular vistas.
9. Maitai Tours Self-Drive Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour
Self-driving a jet ski around Bora Bora offers a flexible, fun experience. This 2-hour tour includes all gear, with options for morning or afternoon. You’ll explore the lagoon at your own pace, with stops to see wildlife like manta rays and sharks, and learn about the island’s legends from your instructor.
Guests love the independence and the chance to control their adventure, with many rating guides like Huni and Patrick highly for friendliness and knowledge. The price of $176 makes it an accessible choice for active travelers wanting a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best for confident swimmers or those wanting a semi-private, flexible way to explore Bora Bora’s waters.
10. Bora Bora Island Tour By Jet Ski
This two-hour guided jet ski tour is an excellent choice for speeding around the island. It includes stops near Motus and the volcano’s center, with stories from a local guide about Bora Bora’s legends. Many reviews mention how personable guides keep the experience engaging, and the scenery is spectacular.
Priced at nearly $290 per group, it’s a bit of a splurge but offers a memorable, fast-paced way to see the island’s highlights. Suitable for active travelers ready for a quick but thrilling ride.
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging tour for those eager to cover the island swiftly with a friendly guide.
11. NEW!!! ATV TOURS with a local tour guide
This recent addition offers a 3-hour ATV ride led by local guides who share stories about Bora Bora’s culture and sights. You’ll visit Mount Otemanu, enjoy panoramic views, and taste exotic fruits. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and pick-up from hotels is available.
Guests love the authentic experience and the guides’ knowledge. Many mention the spectacular views from Mount Popoti and the fun of off-road riding, making it a strong choice for active travelers.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to see the island’s interior and learn about its culture with a personable local guide.
12. Reef Discovery Private Half Day Lagoon Tour
For those seeking privacy and flexibility, this private lagoon tour is unmatched. You’ll have the boat all to yourself, with options to select your snorkeling spots, including manta rays and eagle rays. The tour lasts about 2 to 4 hours and includes all gear, towels, and refreshments.
Reviewers praise the personalized service, especially the captain Fabian, who shares great stories and shows you the best spots. At $783.76 per group, it’s ideal for romantic getaways or small groups wanting intimacy and customization.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers valuing privacy, customization, and a personal touch.
13. Half day lagoon safari tour in Bora Bora – Shared tour
This half-day safari takes you in a sturdy boat to explore Bora Bora’s underwater world. With limited groups, guides like Vahi show you colorful coral gardens, sharks, rays, and the island’s scenic landscape. It includes snorkeling gear and cold drinks, lasting about 4 to 5 hours.
Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the stunning underwater sights. It’s a flexible, fun way to see the lagoon with the added bonus of optional stops for photos and cultural insights. At $159.90, it’s a solid value for a comprehensive boat safari.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a relaxed, guided snorkeling adventure with good value.
14. Bora Bora: Half Day Island 4WD Guided Tour
This 4WD tour takes you around Bora Bora’s interior, visiting WWII sites, tropical plantations, and lookouts. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a broad overview of the island’s scenery and history in a compact 3-hour window. Guides like Moana and H are praised for their storytelling and local knowledge.
Guests appreciate the well-organized stops and the opportunity to see parts of the island inaccessible by car. Price at $91.59 offers good value, especially for those with limited time but curiosity about Bora Bora’s rugged side.
Bottom Line: An efficient, informative tour for travelers eager to discover Bora Bora’s diverse landscapes and history.
15. Bora Bora Lagoon Snorkeling Tour by Private Boat
For ultimate privacy and flexibility, this private boat snorkeling tour offers the chance to visit 4-5 snorkeling sites with your group. All gear, towels, and refreshments are included, and the boat captain tailors the itinerary to your interests, including chances to see manta rays, sharks, and coral gardens.
Reviewers mention how attentive and knowledgeable the captain is, making it perfect for romantic trips or small groups seeking personalized service. At $650 per group, it’s an investment, but one that guarantees exclusivity and a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a private, flexible, and highly personalized snorkeling adventure on Bora Bora’s lagoon.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Bora Bora, consider your interests and style. If underwater marine life is your focus, tours like the Reef Discovery Half Day Group Signature Tour and Tohora Bora Bora Snorkeling Lagoon Tours provide immersive experiences with manta rays and sharks. Active travelers might prefer the Bora Bora ATV-Quad Tour or Island & Mountain ATV Tour. For those craving privacy, the Reef Discovery Private Lagoon Tour offers a customizable, intimate experience.
Budget-conscious travelers will find the Bora Bora Half Day 4X4 Island Safari and Lagoon Safari excellent value, while adventure seekers should consider the Jet Ski & Eco Shark/Ray Cruise for a full day of high-energy fun.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, and be sure to match your choice with your physical activity level and interests. Many tours include hotel pickup, making planning even easier.
Bora Bora’s tours cover a broad spectrum—whether you want to glide over reefs, conquer mountain vistas, or relax on a private boat. We recommend balancing your wish for adventure with practical considerations like time and budget. For pure marine encounters, the snorkeling tours provide unforgettable memories; for active explorers, ATV rides reveal sights most visitors miss. And if privacy or customization matters, the private lagoon or custom boat tours are hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, Bora Bora’s natural beauty guarantees a memorable experience. Be sure to book early, particularly if visiting during peak season, and enjoy every minute exploring this stunning island.
