Forget Mount Pahia—discover the secret hike to Maua Piri in Bora Bora. This 2026 guide covers the hidden Anau trailhead, crucial navigation tips, and the epic ‘Camel’s Back’ summit.
Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia might steal the spotlight, but Maua Piri is Bora Bora’s best-kept secret for those seeking the road less traveled.
Imagine dense tropical forests and a trail that feels like a private gateway to the island’s most rugged views. With no signs and zero crowds, it’s just you and the mountain. In this Ultimate Bora Bora Hiking Guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to summit Maua Piri—from finding the hidden trailhead to surviving the steep climb.
Welcome to your next adventure!
Planning your trip? My French Polynesia Favorites:
🚤 Airport Transfer: Book your boat shuttle from the airport islet – Since Bora Bora’s airport is on a motu, you’ll need a boat to reach the main island or your resort.
🚗 Car Rental: Compare car or scooter rentals on Expedia – You’ll need a way to get to the southern part of the island (near Povai Bay) where the Maua Piri trailhead is located.
🏨 Hotels: Find the best stays on Booking.com – I recommend staying in or near Vaitape for the easiest access to the island’s best hiking trails.
🎟️ Tours & Activities: Book shark & ray snorkels or 4×4 safaris on Viator – The lagoon here is world-famous, and a boat tour is a must-do after your hike.
🛡️ Insurance: Don’t hike without cover. I use Ekta Travel Insurance – Essential for Bora Bora’s steep, overgrown trails where the terrain can be unpredictable.
📱 Connectivity: Stay connected with a Saily eSIM – Don’t rely on spotty island Wi-Fi; get instant data so you can use GPS on the trails.
✈️ Flights: Check Air Tahiti for island-hopping – Bora Bora is the main hub for flights to Maupiti, Raiatea, or back to Tahiti.
Table of Contents
A note from Sara:
There are affiliate links in this post, and I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase – at no extra cost to you. It’s a great way to support my work if you found this guide helpful – thank you so much!
Maua Piri Hike: The Essential Details
Maua Piri might not have the fame of Otemanu, but it packs a punch. It’s a “spicy” trail that demands respect and a good pair of lungs.
Quick Overview of the Hike
- Location: Near the town of Anau, Bora Bora, French Polynesia.
- Trail Length: 6 kilometer roundtrip.
- Duration: Approximately 5 to 7 hours. The duration can vary, depending on your level of fitness, climbing experience and speed.
- Difficulty: Hard. Expect steep scrambles and slippery terrain.
- Elevation Gain: Approx. 600 Meters.
- Best Time to Hike: Early in the morning.
What the Experience is Really Like
Unlike the more established path to Mount Pahia, Maua Piri is rugged and raw. The trail is characterized by steep inclines and dense, “moldy” forest.
The path is not meticulously maintained or well-marked. You’ll be weaving through tropical ferns and climbing over rocky outcrops. It’s a true jungle adventure where you’ll likely be the only soul on the mountain.
Essential Survival Tips
- Start at Dawn: To avoid the brutal midday sun and ensure you’re down before dark.
- Look Up: If you lose the trail, stop and look up. The red string markers are often tied to higher branches or tree trunks that might be above your eye level when you’re focusing on your footing.
- Footwear: Do NOT attempt this in sneakers. You need trail runners or hiking boots with aggressive grip for the slippery forest floor.
- Hydration: Pack at least 2-3 liters of water. There are no refills on the mountain!
- Check the Rain: Never hike Piri during or right after heavy rain. The “moldy” terrain becomes a mudslide, making it extremely dangerous.
- Bring a Friend: While you can do this hike solo, I’d recommend to hike in a group or inform your accommodation exactly when you expect to be back.
Know Your Limits
- The “Camel’s Back”: The peak of Maua Piri resembles three humps like a camel. A white flag marks the third hump. Unless you are an experienced mountaineer with professional climbing gear, do not go beyond the white flag. The terrain becomes extremely dangerous past this point.
- The First Viewpoint: If the climb feels too “spicy” or you’re feeling apprehensive, turn back at the first viewpoint. The views are already incredible here, and the trail only gets significantly more technical and steeper as you continue. There is no shame in a safe return!
Getting to the Maua Piri Trailhead
Finding the start of this hike is an adventure in itself. Unlike the main tourist attractions, there are no big signs pointing the way. Here is exactly how you find it:
Step 1: Get to Anau
The hike begins in the town of Anau, located on the eastern side of the island (opposite Vaitape). Look for the U Express Supermarket—this is your primary landmark.
- Pro Tip: This is your last chance for supplies. Stop by U Express to stock up on water and snacks before you head into the jungle.
Step 2: Locating the Secret Entrance
Take the road to the right of the U Express. Follow this road all the way to the end.
- The Backyard Passage: At the end of the road, the trail technically begins, but you may need to pass through a local resident’s backyard to access it. If you come across angry dogs on your way to the trailhead, pretend to throw rocks at them, or have a stick ready to fend them off.
- Be Courteous: Polynesians are incredibly friendly. If you see the owner, offer a warm “Ia Ora Na” (hello), smile, and politely explain that you are looking for the trail to Maua Piri.
Step 3: Navigating the Jungle
Once you enter the forest, the path can feel a bit like a maze. Keep your eyes peeled for these two things:
- Red Strings: Look for small red strings tied to branches. These are your breadcrumbs through the dense greenery.
- Tiare Flowers: Sometimes, locals or previous hikers leave Tiare flowers on the ground to mark the correct path.
Step 4: Use a Trusty GPS (Essential!)
Don’t rely on your intuition—the jungle is too thick for that.
- Offline Maps: Make sure to download the map of French Polynesia for offline use before you leave your hotel, as mobile signal can be spotty under the forest canopy.
- My Tool of Choice: I swear by the Maps.me app for this specific hike (not an ad, just a lifesaver!).
Coordinates: Maua Piri is located at -16.503° or 16° 30′ 11″ south, -151.7297° or 151° 43′ 47″ west.
My Experience: The Day I Found Maua Piri
When One Hike Closes…
“F**k it,” I muttered, walking back down the asphalt road.
I had this grand plan of hiking to the famous cave of Mount Otemanu. But just as I reached the trailhead, a local Polynesian lady stepped out of her house and gave me a firm “Non.” Naturally, I tried to bribe her. I used Google Translate to explain that I’d happily pay for passage to conquer the cave. But even my “blue-eyed charm” couldn’t budge her will. I was rejected—but I sure as hell wasn’t going home. My bag was full of water, my boots were laced, and I was going hiking today. I just didn’t know the adventure that awaited me.
Nature’s Bouncer
I remembered seeing a faint track on my map starting behind the U Express in Anau. With no plan and zero expectations, I headed there. When the road ended, I started crawling through bushes like an over-excited kid on an Easter egg hunt. Eventually, I saw it: a tiny red string tied to a branch. My hunt was on.
As I trudged deeper, the forest felt untouched—like I was stepping back centuries. Moss-covered trees and tangled vines surrounded me. The ground squished beneath my boots as if nature was trying to reclaim its territory.
Nature sets physical boundaries. It’s like a bouncer in front of the forest, saying: ‘Oh, so you think you can handle me? We’ll see about that.’“
Shit Gets Real
After the first viewpoint, things got “spicy.” We’re talking steep inclines, slippery rocks, and vines that felt like they had a personal vendetta against me. Every handhold was a battle; trees with moldy hearts snapped like twigs in my hands.
There was a little whisper in my mind: “Sara, hey Sara. Is this a bad idea?” But the endorphins were winning. I wasn’t about to let some stubborn foliage and breaking branches defeat me after being rejected by the “Cave Lady” earlier that morning.
The Best-Kept Secret in Bora Bora
The trail on my map looked like it just ended in the middle of nowhere. I didn’t even know if there was a peak. But then, the canopy thinned. A few rays of sun hit my skin, and the air grew lighter.
The final ascent was a heart-pounder. Then, like a mirage, I saw it: the summit. It was sculpted with a mischievous sense of humor—like a camel’s back with three humps, each one taller than the last.
I stood there and whooped like a lunatic. The view was breathtaking—endless “Moana-blue” ocean, lush green valleys, and the majestic Mount Otemanu standing guard like a sentinel.
“To hell with the cave, I thought. This was a real adventure. No plan, no knowledge—just heaps of determination and a happy spirit.”
The path less traveled led me to a place I couldn’t find on Google, and that’s where the real magic happens. So, if you’re in Bora Bora, don’t be afraid to ditch the guidebook and blaze your own trail. It might get tough, and it will definitely get moldy, but the view from the “Camel’s Back” is worth every single stumble.
After the Hike: Best Bora Bora Tours & Adventures
When you are done playing “survivor” on the slopes of Maua Piri, there are a few other bucket-list experiences in Bora Bora that you shouldn’t miss. From the neon-blue lagoon to the rugged 4WD tracks, here is how to see the best of the island:
1. The “Must-Do”: Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari
This is the quintessential Bora Bora experience. You’ll head to the outer reef to swim with blacktip reef sharks and meet the friendly (and very curious) stingrays in the shallows.
- Best for: Everyone—it’s the #1 activity for a reason.
- Check Price: Bora Bora Shark and Ray Snorkel Safari
2. The Adventure Choice: 4×4 Jeep Safari & WWII History
If you want to see the rugged interior (and perhaps scout out more trailheads), this is the way to do it. You’ll climb steep tracks to see WWII cannons and panoramic views that most tourists never find.
- Best for: History buffs and photography lovers.
- Check Price: Bora Bora 4WD Safari & Island Highlights
3. The Adrenaline Rush: Jet Ski Around the Island
There is no better feeling than circling the entire island of Bora Bora on a jet ski. It’s fast, thrilling, and gives you a 360-degree view of the mountains from the water.
- Best for: Thrill-seekers and active couples.
- Check Price: Bora Bora Jet Ski Tour with Motu Stop
4. The Ultimate Splurge: Private Sunset Sail
After a grueling hike up Maua Piri, you deserve this. A private catamaran cruise at sunset is pure magic as the sky turns orange behind the peaks.
- Best for: Honeymooners and celebrating a successful summit.
- Check Price: Bora Bora Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Where to stay in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is famous for luxury, but there are different ways to experience the island depending on your vibe and budget.
The Ultimate Splurge: Overwater Luxury
These are the iconic resorts you see on postcards, located on private motus (islets) with the best views of Mount Otemanu.
- Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Often voted the best in the world. Exceptional service and incredible overwater bungalows.
- The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa: A stunning beachside setting with a focus on wellness and luxury.
Boutique & Authentic Stays
If you want to stay on the main island (closer to the Maua Piri trailhead) or want a more intimate feel.
- Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts: A beautiful blend of luxury and traditional Polynesian style with eco-friendly practices.
- Maitai Bora Bora: One of the best-valued beachfront resorts on the island, located near the famous Matira Beach.
- Royal Bora Bora: A fantastic mid-range option with a great pool and beach access on the main island.
FAQ: Bora Bora Hiking & Travel Tips
Are there hiking trails in Bora Bora?
Yes! While famous for its lagoons, Bora Bora has incredible peaks like Mount Pahia and the more rugged Maua Piri. Be aware that most trails are steep, overgrown, and technically challenging.
What is the best time to visit Bora Bora?
The dry season from May to October is best. You’ll get the clearest views from the summit and less slippery trails.
Is Bora Bora safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s very safe, but when hiking, nature is your biggest “bouncer.” Always check the weather forecast before heading up the mountains.
What should I pack for Bora Bora?
Sunscreen (reef-safe!), insect repellent for the jungle, a reusable water bottle, and a dry bag for your electronics.
How far in advance should I book for Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is popular. For the best rates on overwater bungalows or boutique hotels, try to book 4–6 months in advance.
If you’ve conquered Piri and are still craving more, check out my guide to Mount Pahia. It’s the more famous big brother, but equally challenging and offers a completely different perspective of the world’s most beautiful lagoon.
Have you hiked in Bora Bora, or are you planning to? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your adventures!
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