DISCOVER TAHITI

Do You

Know What to

Pack?

The All-in-One Guide

did someone say "SHARKS"?

YOUR COMPLETE

ITINERARY

FROM DAY 1 TO DAY  10

HINTS

TIPS

INFO

AND JUICY

DETAILS

A COMPLETE

GUIDE TO YOUR

PROJECTS

Y@H

D I S C O V E R T A H I T I |   T H E U L T I M A T E T R A V E L G U I D E

hey there!Firstly, on behalf of everybody at Bamboo, I would like to offer you our thanks for choosing to experience this

incredible part of the world with us. We guarantee you an amazing time and we’re all very much looking forward

to meeting you in Tahiti soon.

I imagine that right now you’re very excited about your upcoming adventure and this little guide has been put

together to help you understand more about what will be happening, what to expect, how to plan and more. We

guarantee your time with us will be unforgettable from start to end.  

Bamboo is growing as our style of 'travel' has proven to be the 'way' to travel. You are now a part of this journey

and we welcome you with open arms and hearts. This growing experience is down to people like you, so do get

stuck in, become part of our way of life, live every moment and take nothing for granted.

Peace, Love & Bamboo Mark (& the other pandas, Steve & Colin)

highlights of your tour

Get your Moana on with this off-the-beaten-track tour of incredible FrenchPolynesia; visiting the two stunningislands of Tahiti and Moorea.

MOANA FEELS

Swimming with sharks and rays (thesafe kind, not the bitey kind)

SEALIFE

Volunteer at a marine conservationproject

GIVING BACK

Discover the real life of thePolynesian islanders by experiencingtheir life in the jungle with them

CULTURE

Set sail on a sunset boat party toadmire the most stunning sunsets inthe world

SUNSETS

FOOD Try the best raw fish ceviche in theworld.

Possibly the best location in the worldto stare at the galaxy and stars.

BAMBOO ROMANCE

itinerary

The excitement, the anticipation, the slightanxiety over the trip can finally end. Today yourtour to one of the most exclusive, most remoteand most beautiful places in the world, Tahiti,begins.

When you arrive in Papeete, one of our mavericktour guides will collect you from the airport andescort you to the hotel where you can shower, putthe jet-lag to bed, and ready yourself for theadventure (please note, check-in is from 2pm).

DAY 1 (FRIDAY): ARRIVAL IN PAPEETE

Our day begins with a bit of formality. We'll sityou down and explain the entire tour - what wedo, what we expect, how you can have a kick-asstime with Bamboo. We'll also ease any anxietiesyou may have about being here - we get it, it's anisolated island.

Once through the orientation, we'll head into thecity to the "Cultural Centre" or "Maison De LaCulture" in Papara. There, we'll spend timelearning about Polynesian life, from the localcooking and crafts to the dances and tattoos. It'sbasically your insightful introduction to thecountry and, better yet, the organization directlysupports educational opportunities for youngPolynesians - you're giving back already.

Once through and fully "cultured", we'll make apit-stop at the Water Garden, a lawn sospectacular we've even lost a breath or two.

From there, we'll head back to the hotel and getready for the night's meet-and-greet dinner at thefamous Royal Tahitian - flower crowns aren'trequired but definitely encouraged. There, you canget to know the other travelers better, dine onTahitian favorites and, if the cards are right,maybe take a late-night dip in the sea.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 2 (SATURDAY): PAPEETE

itinerary

How bad can a morning be if it begins with ridingthe waves to your second paradise in two days?

After a much-needed breakfast (coffee cures all,right?), we'll pack our bags and board the boat tothe island of Moorea. For those who don't know,"Moorea" is the only correct answer to thequestion, "Where is paradise?", as you'll soon findout.

Upon arrival, we'll amble to our beach bungalowsin Haapiti and briefly entertain the idea ofditching the tour altogether and instead opt for alife on the island forever. Once realizing thatidea's flawed (it may take a few hours...or days),the adventure continues.

Largely known as surf capital, Haapiti's lagoonsalso cater to some of the most wild and exoticlives in French Polynesia. It's a place where, ifyou're brave enough, you can swim with sharksand stingrays. Those looking for lighter, less-adrenaline-inducing entertainment can insteadwatch for dolphins and whales (peak season isAugust - October).

Just another casual day in Moorea.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch.

DAY 3 (SUNDAY): PAPEETE - HAAPITI

Still enchanted with Haapiti's charm, today willinvolve a bit more work and less play. We'vecarefully selected a local NGO responsible formaintaining the conservation, education andresearch of the region's infamous lagoon. Theorganization will introduce you to reef andpollution issues in addition to the problemscurrently facing the region's sea turtle population.It'll be the basis for our volunteering excursion inHaapiti, so listen up.

Following the interactive introduction, you'll havethe afternoon and evening to yourself, which caneasily be filled with swimming, exploring,endlessly reapplying sunscreen, gettingmesmerized by the sparkling seas or, like anymember of the BamFam, psyching yourself up fortomorrow's work.

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 4 (MONDAY): HAAPITI

itinerary

Rest up this morning because today thedifference-making begins.

The NGO will have us cutting and preservingcoral reefs, cleaning the island's beach fronts andteaching local people the importance ofsustainability and environmentalism.

It's a long afternoon in the heat so, at sundown,we've arranged for a proper 'Happy Hour' andbarbecue to satiate the appetites worked upthroughout the day. Be prepared for a sunset thatwe can only describe using cheesy cliches, so we'lljust say "it's darn beautiful".

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 5 (TUESDAY): HAAPITI

Today we are all heading back to the island ofTahiti and taking a trip to one of FrenchPolynesia's most sacred destinations: Fare Hape.

Crossing from Moorea to Tahiti by boat, we'll thenhop on an epic 4x4 jeep journey into the center ofthe island to spend the next two days at asecluded, ancient village hidden in the mountainsand jungle.

For thousands of years, Fare Hape was virtuallyuntouched by the western world, and the sacredPolynesian rituals and beliefs lie at the heart ofTahitian values. The day's highlights centeraround understanding this 1,000s-year-oldculture, including herbal healing, astronavigation,and simply building old-world houses fromnatural materials.

We'll also introduce you to the local Haruruorganization who invests and protects the island'ssacred grounds. While here, they'll have youconstructing Polynesian homes, plantingmedicinal herbs, clearing the jungle, riverdamming, and essentially helping to build theinfrastructure for an entire irrigation system -high-level tasks for a volunteer...but you'reBamFam so this shouldn't be daunting.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 6 (WEDNESDAY): HAAPITI - FARE HAPE

itinerary

itinerary

Yesterday we learned about the jungle and todaywe'll explore it. Wandering through like Tarzanand Jane, we'll follow the sounds of the jungle,tracing animals and veering towards the faintcrashes in the distance. The crashes, of course,can only mean one thing: Waterfalls. Who's up fora swim?

After a dip (and lunch), it's back to Fare Hape tocontinue our projects. The houses ain't going tobuild themselves.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

DAY 7 (THURSDAY): FARE HAPE

Bidding farewell to the local people of Fare Hapewe head off to the remote area of Teahupoo onthe south-east coast of the island.

On an island already coated in stunningcoastlines, Teahupoo's serenity and peacefulnessis the only way to wrap-up an otherwiseadventurous tour.

Upon arrival, we'll take you on another specialboat tour. The gorgeous caves of Vaipori await, aswell as island enclaves so remote they rarely seeany human exploration, making you, effectively, amodern day Magellan.

Lunch will be cooked fresh from the boat deck,which features a view and then some!

The day concludes with even more lounging andeven more stunning sunsets and even moredelicious meals and even more drinks...becausethat's just life in this paradise.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

DAY 8 (FRIDAY): FARE HAPE - TEAHUPOO

itinerary

We're taking off the Bamboo ball-and-chain and letting you into the wild world ofTeahupoo this morning. Packed with one-of-a-kind nature, feel free to explore thesurrounding waterfalls, go hiking, kayaking,or even just spend the morning sun-tanning along the waterfront. Just get backby early afternoon so we can shuttle you toPapeete, where we'll gather for our finalgroup meal and toast to Tahiti...on ourprivate boat of course!

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9 (SATURDAY): TEAHUPOO - PAPEETE

Do...do we even want to address thegoodbye? We've reached the end of thetour but only the beginning of ourfriendships. Don't be sad it's over becausethe Tahiti adventure will forever live insideeach of us. We'll snap a final group photo,which we'll then keep under our pillow case,only to look at late at night and rememberthe fun we had.

Beyond that, we'll help you arrange anytransport you may need to the airport andsee you off to your next destination, be ithome, another leg of your vacation, or backto the bungalow where you contemplatedmoving just days ago!

Just remember that, with Bamboo andDiscover Tahiti, you're leaving a legacy forthe causes we've supported, and we hopePolynesian culture will hold anextraordinary place in each of your heartsand souls forever. Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 10 (SUNDAY): DEPART PAPEETE

blessed

are the

curious

for they

shall have

adventures

What's includedDISCOVER TAHITI TOUR

1. Airport Arrival Pick-up 2. All accommodation in a variety of hotels and traditional houses 3. All activities outlined in the itinerary 4. All meals outlined in the itinerary 5. Volunteering with a leading marine conservation project 6. Our guides to accompany you 7. Discover caves and jungle life 8. Getting your hands dirty helping to maintain the island's history, heritage and culture

FAST FACTS: VISA

90 days free if from US , UK ,

AUS or CAN (Most EU)

VISA and passport

requirements are YOUR

responsibility

You must have a return ticket

to receive your VISA upon

arrival , this will need to shown

at immigration arrivals

ENTRY REQUIREMENTSDepending on your country of citizenship you may be

entitled to a 90-day visa-free entry into French

Polynesia (all islands including Tahiti and Moorea).

This means that you can simply turn up at the airport ,

present your passport and receive free entry for a

maximum of 90 days .

These countries include the USA , the UK , Australia ,

Canada , and most European countries .

To check if you ’re entitled to this check your country

is on the following list : http ://tahiti-

tourisme .com .au/plan-your-trip/getting-to-tahiti/visas-

passports/

THE INFORMAT ION YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE WE BEG IN D ISCOVER TAH I T I

THE NITTY GRITTY

VISA and passport requirements are YOUR responsibility

FAST FACTS: MONEY

A budget for basic items is ;

Water pack of 6 = 500 CFP

Beer = 270 CFP

Local Juice = 250 CFP

Fresh Coconut Water = 200 CFP

Baguette = 57 CFP

Punupuatro = 500 CFP

Sandwich = 450 CFP

Local fruits = 300 CFP

Meal at a food truck = 1 .500 CFP

Meal at a restaurant = 4 .500 CFP

When it comes to advice on how much

money to bring , it ’s impossible to say . All our

intrepid explorers are very different . Where

some go all out , others are on a budget . You

can find both high end and budget

restaurants , bars and shopping across French

Polynesian .

The currency used in French Polynesia is the

French Pacific Franc , abbreviated XPF or CFP .

Typical exchange rates at the time of writing

are :

$1 - 100 CFP

£1 - 130 CFP

ATMs , or cash machines are prevalent

throughout the main cities ,

If you do plan to bring your ATM card with

you , we recommend that you inform your

bank . This may prevent your card being

suspended due to irregular withdrawals .

Major credit cards are widely accepted in

larger towns , depending on where you 're

shopping or dining . Larger hotels and

restaurants may accept credit cards , but in

most other places cash is king .

It ’s recommended that you have enough cash

on you to cover your time away from the

larger areas . You will be reminded of this by

your guides during your trip .

Negotiating a purchase , known as bartering ,

still happens in the tourist areas .

Outside of tourist areas , however , bartering is

seen as disrespectful . If you ’re unsure as to

whether or not you can barter for a discount

please speak to your guide or coordinator . 

MONEY

FAST FACTS: TRAVEL

It 's common to put a tiare (Tahiti 's

national flower , a fragrant white

blossom) behind one 's ear -- left

side you 're taken , right if you 're

looking .

Did you know that?

On a flight the bathroom door isn ’t

really locked when you ’re inside .

Lavatory doors can be locked and

unlocked from the outside for a

multitude of reason . It allows flight

attendants quick access to locked

lavatories in case of emergencies . In

other instances , it allows the cabin

crew to restrict access to bathrooms

during takeoff and landing .

For up to date information about the best travel

vaccinations to have before arriving in country

we urge you to contact your own GP , travel

health clinic or check the World Health

Organisations website . Bamboo are not medical

professionals and therefore can ’t offer you

medical advice . 

VACCINATIONS

TRAVEL

FLIGHTSThanks to the world wide web we all now have

access to great flight deals through websites

such as Skyscanner , Google Flights and more . If

you ’d rather use the services of a booking

agent , the likes of STA Travel , Trailfinders and

Flight Centre , they are all available online .  

To be eligible for the airport pick-up , please

arrange your flight to arrive into Fa 'a 'ā

International Airport (PPT) in the capital city of

Papeete , on the Friday that your tour starts

between 6am and 11pm . Should your flight

arrive outside of these hours , our guides may

not be available to collect you from the airport .

You will meet the group the following morning

before the tour starts .  

IMPORTANT NOTICEOnce you have booked and confirmed your

flight to Tahiti , please make sure that you have

shared your flight arrival time and flight

number with our team . Without those details

we will be unable to guarantee that one of our

team will be at the airport to meet you on

arrival . 

ARRIVALS INFO

Keep your eyes peeled for the

smiling face that holding our

Bamboo logo - Kooga our guide in

the photo above loves to smile ,

honest !

ARRIVALFa 'a 'ā International Airport in Tahiti is one

of the busiest airports in French Polynesia .

Whilst it 's not a huge airport , it can be a bit

intimidating when you first arrive in a new

country . No need to worry though , we are

here with some useful tips for when you

land !

After passing immigration , please collect

your bags at the carousels . Once you have

your bags please make your way to the exit

passing through the Nothing to Declare

channel .

Once through you will enter the main

arrival area where one of our team will be

waiting . They should be easily recognizable

with their Bamboo t-shirts and be holding

a sign showing the Bamboo logo .

Once you ’ve found them , you ’ll then receive

further instructions . Please bear in mind

that we may be waiting for others to arrive

so your transfer to the hotel may not be

immediate but we ’ll get you there as soon

as possible .

If your flight has been delayed , don 't panic !

As long as we have your correct flight

details one of our team will be there . 

Once we have you we ’ll transfer you

straight to the starting point for your tour .

On arrival , we ’ll help you to check in and

give you more details of what ’s happening

next .

MAKE A NOTE!

If you cannot locate one of our team

on arrival , please call the following

number :

+689 87 734 918

If you have supplied us with a mobile

number , make sure your mobile is

turned on as we may be trying to

contact you

FUN FACTS: DID YOU KNOW?

The letter "B" does not exist in

the Tahitian language . Bora Bora

is actually Pora Pora , meaning

first born , but early visitors

heard it as Bora Bora .

There are no poisonous snakes

or insects in French Polynesia .

French and Tahitian are the

official languages , though

English is widely spoken is

tourist areas .

TRANSPORTTransportation will vary depending on the

islands and the location ; minivans , local

Tahitian 'trucks ' , 4x4 jeeps and boats .

Minivan transportation will be for the

shorter journeys , like your airport pick-up

and transfer . These will have comfortable

seats and air-conditioning .  

The traditional Tahitian 'trucks '  are

vehicles with a truck chassis on which a

huge wooden box is fixed . It has benches

inside and a rustic roof . Traditionally , if

you wanted to jump on board

you would leave a branch of leaves on the

side of the road and it will get you to any

place around the island . Nowadays , the

trucks have been replaced by big buses

that are invading the roads , but Bamboo

have decided to bring back this charming

mode of transport and recreate this

atmosphere of community and sharing .

Additionally , 4x4s will be used when we

need to reach the , more remote , centre of

the island .  These allow for the roof can

be taken off when the weather permits .

You will feel like you are in Jurassic Park ! 

Of course , for island hopping days , we 'll

also be using boats and ferries to cross

the beautiful Southern Pacific Ocean

between the islands of Tahiti and Moorea .

FAST FACTS: GUIDES

Our guides are the face of Bamboo ,

and they come in all shapes and

smiles .

We love each and every one of them

more than turtles love the sea . 

Whilst most them are elite travel

mavericks in their own right , you

may come across newbies who are

on the path the greatness .

If you 're lucky enough to meet a

fresh-faced newbie , be sure to show

them your support and patience ,

most guides remember their first

tours forever , so let 's play nice .

GUIDESAny tour is only as good as the guide – fact . The

input of a tour guide cannot be understated . Their

input into your tour , their little insights , the off-

the-beaten-track , the knowledge and experiences

that they share with you will make or break your

time wherever you are in the world .

At Bamboo , we take the selection and training of

our guides and our coordinators very seriously .

Each guide undertakes a structured training

program of three months and only once we ’re

convinced that they are genuine representatives

of Bamboo are they signed up to the family .

Each of our tours has English-speaking guides to

support you , answer your questions , educate you

and to ensure that your time is unforgettable .

From time to time we may have new guides-in-

training on our tours . If you ’re lucky to have a

trainee on your tour , please be patient . They are

undergoing training and therefore their

knowledge won ’t be that of the trained and

experienced guide who will be accompanying

them . 

We are also working with students from the

hospitality school of Tahiti to introduce students

to the tourism industry and give them the

opportunity to support our on the group team , so

be sure to say hello once you meet them !

TIPPINGAlthough not in any way expected or encouraged ,

anybody who goes over and above the call of duty

to ensure that you have the very best time , may

deserve a special little thank you .

Did you have extra special service in a restaurant?

Did the bus driver make an additional pit-stop

just for you? Did your guide go out of the way so

that you could experience something unique? At

Bamboo we ’re firm believers in Karma – what goes

around most definitely comes around ! 

The 'must brings'HAVE YOU PACKED THE FOLLOWING?

0. An open mind 1. Backpack or suitcase with wheels 2. Travel Towel 3. Light, loose-fitting clothes 4. Warmer clothes for your time overnight in the mountains 5. A swimsuit 6. Flip flops/sandals 7. Trainers/sneakers 8. Day pack/bag 9. Insect spray 10. Hat & Sunscreen 11. Reusable Water Bottle 12. Multi-use plug adaptor

The 'can brings'EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT AND THE BELOW IS JUST A FEW

SUGGESTIONS OF THINGS YOU MAY LIKE TO CONSIDER BRINGING PLEASE USE COMMON SENSE AND INDIVIDUAL REQUIREMENTS WHEN

PACKING FOR THIS TRIP

1. Medical Kit 2. Toiletries 3. Raincoat/waterproof jacket 4. Earplugs 5. Any home luxuries you simply can't live without 6. Card games or books 7. French phrase book 8. Waterproof bag/ziploc

YOUR ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

DISCOVER TAHITI

PAPEETE

Located a short distance from the

airport, this airport motel is your first

destination and the perfect place to

rest up after your arrival.

The accommodation here is twin

share (two single beds) with a

private bathroom and features air-

conditioning, fridge, tea & coffee and

free WiFi.

The hotel is not far from shops,

grocery stores, pharmacies,

restaurants and of course the airport!

Accommodation throughout the

tour is shared with another travellers

in your group. If you would like to

upgrade to a private room, please

speak to a member of our team to

check availability and prices before

you travel.

HAAPITI

Prepare yourselves for a treat as we

stay on a unique property. This is a

private home and the owners

have invited you to stay!

The shared bedrooms will either be

in one of the overwater bungalows

or a garden room with single beds

and shared bathroom facilities.

  

WiFi is available throughout.

There are also some outrigger

canoes and kayaks for you to get

your paddle on!

There is direct access to the water

from the accommodation so

you'll have a private white sands

beach on your doorstep!

FARE HAPE

Without a doubt one of the most

unforgettable experiences on this

tour will be your time at the Fare

Hape.

The accommodation here is basic

and a true experience; living in a

wooden house, shared outside

bathrooms and sleeping under a

mosquito net.

All bedding is supplied but please

do bring some warm clothes for

the nights here as we'll be up in the

mountainous jungle and it can get

cold!

Located in the centre of the island,

the accommodation is very remote

and you'll really feel the true island

spirit of Tahiti, known as the 'Mana'.

TEAHUPOO

Hidden in amongst coconut trees

and beautiful gardens, our next

base embodies the simplicity of

living in between the mountain

and the ocean.

The bungalows are twin share

rooms (two single beds) with

private bathroom and fans.

There are plenty of treats in store

for you here, including some

delicious home-cooked meals; the

owners of this spacious bed and

breakfast accommodation will

welcome you with open arms and

hearts, as if you were their own

family.

YOUR PROJECT GUIDE

DISCOVER TAHITI

YOUR PROJECT GUIDE“Te Mana O Te Moana” is a local NGO whose primary objective is to protect this

stunning marine environment for generations to come using three models:

Conservation, Education and Research.

During your time here, you’ll be introduced to turtles, the reef and the pollution issues

in French Polynesia.

You will be introduced to the organisation and their clinic and, after a short

presentation you'll get stuck in with a variety of tasks that could include activities such

as:

Beach clean-ups

Plastic pollution is a big part of the work and research that goes on here and a lot of

time is spent collecting rubbish to protect the amazing white sands and the

surrounding wildlife. The litter is then analyzed to help understand where the

pollution has come from and the negative effects on local species such as turtles,

dolphins and birdlife.

Coral Gardens

Creating coral gardens enriches poor or degraded areas of coral with the goal of

creating a new reef that attracts various species to naturally re-colonise the area. This

requires special techniques such as coral transplantation and fixation of cuttings.

Assisting in the turtle clinic

The clinic houses baby or injured turtles with the view to releasing them back into the

ocean, where possible, when they have good chances of survival.

Cleaning and general maintenance 

Removing build-up of seaweed from the water park and general maintenance helps

to ensure a pleasant environment for everyone.

HAAPITI MARINE

CONSERVATION

YOUR PROJECT GUIDE

Located in the centre of Tahiti island, in the Papenoo Valley, lies the mystical

Fare Hape archaeological site with its ancient village and sacred ceremonial

site.

Integral to French Polynesian history and culture, the Papenoo Valley was, at

one time, the most densely populated area on the island. Sadly, following

European colonisation, depopulation began in the area and the last resident

left in 1930 leaving this sacred place deserted and in ruins.

The Haururu organisation was established in 1999 to manage the

archaeological site and to protect the environment, culture and local traditions

of this ancient and sacred valley. Since then, the organisation has developed

projects ranging from improving access to the area to rebuilding the traditional

houses and educating local and international visitors.

The project here focuses on the preservation and protection of a meaningful

aspect in Polynesian culture. It also encourages development by assisting the

local indigenous people in sustainability; helping to rebuild the local

environment, community and spirit.

You will be invited to listen to the village elders explain about the traditional

plants, music and medicine. There will also be the chance to witness the sacred

“Marae” by visiting the ruins of sacred ceremonial sites; once the heart of the

religious and social life of the islanders and where they worshipped, chose their

leaders and prepared for war.

Last but not least, you'll have the opportunity to get stuck in with some of the

restoration work that goes on here. This could include activities such as

assisting in the building or fixing of traditional houses or creating hiking paths

in the jungle.

FARE HAPE HAURURU  PROJECT

TERMS & CONDITIONSPlease read these Terms and Conditions carefully as they form the basis of your contract

with WeAreBamboo. This agreement is made at the time of booking and becomes legally

binding upon payment of your deposit. By booking a program with WeAreBamboo, you

signify you have read and accepted these Terms and Conditions

All programs advertised on our website and/or on Facebook are offered and/or operated

by WeAreBamboo Ltd. (trading as Bamboo and referred to as Bamboo or ‘we’ herein

after) with company number 59926953 whose registered office is:.

WE ARE BAMBOO LEVEL 2

61 SEAVIEW ROAD LOWER HUTT, NEW ZEALAND 5010

All travel arrangements are sold subject to the following conditions. Bamboo reserves the

right to update the Terms and Conditions at any time.

Please view our full terms and conditions here:

https://www.wearebamboo.com/about/legal.php

Please note that the information in this pack is subject to change at any time without notice.