Bora Bora, a stunning island in French Polynesia, is a dream destination known for its turquoise lagoons and luxury resorts. Located in the South Pacific, it is far from Mumbai, making the journey a unique adventure for travelers seeking an exotic escape.

This route is popular among honeymooners, luxury travelers, and adventure seekers. This guide covers all practical options to reach Bora Bora from Mumbai, focusing on flights, transit tips, and travel planning to help you navigate this long-haul journey confidently.

Getting from Mumbai to Bora Bora – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the only practical way to reach Bora Bora from Mumbai, given the vast distance and oceanic location. While there are no direct flights, multiple connecting flights via major hubs make the journey manageable.

• Major transit hubs:

  Common layovers include airports like Singapore Changi (SIN), Los Angeles (LAX), or Auckland (AKL). Flights from Mumbai (BOM) to these hubs are frequent, operated by airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Air India, and Emirates.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Total travel time ranges from 20 to 30 hours depending on layovers. Ticket prices vary widely, typically between ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000 for a round trip, depending on season and booking time.

• Connecting to Bora Bora:

  From hubs like LAX or AKL, you will take a regional flight to Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport (PPT), followed by a short domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB) via Air Tahiti. These flights are less frequent and should be booked well in advance.

• Booking tips:

  Use multi-city search options on airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip or Skyscanner. Booking 2–3 months ahead can secure better fares and seat availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Avoid traveling during the South Pacific cyclone season (November to April) as flights can be delayed or canceled. The dry season (May to October) offers smoother travel conditions and clearer skies.

• Airport transfers and luggage:

  Allow at least 3 hours between connecting flights to accommodate customs and baggage re-checks, especially when switching airlines or countries.

Train

Train travel is not applicable for this international oceanic route. The journey requires air travel for crossing continents and oceans.

• Train travel within Mumbai or connecting to the Mumbai airport is possible via local rail or metro services.

• For airport transfers in Mumbai, the Mumbai Suburban Railway and metro lines offer convenient options to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Bus

Bus travel is not relevant for the international segment but can be used locally in Mumbai to reach the airport or for short transit between terminals.

• MSRTC or BEST buses connect various parts of Mumbai to the airport, offering budget-friendly options for early arrivals.

• Prepaid taxi stands and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are more convenient for luggage and timing flexibility.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to the airport or nearby transit points is possible but not recommended due to traffic congestion and parking challenges.

• The Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Western Express Highway provide the fastest routes to the airport from city outskirts.

• Parking at Mumbai airport is available but can be costly; consider drop-offs or airport shuttles to avoid hassle.

• Self-drive is not an option beyond Mumbai due to the oceanic gap and international nature of the journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Mumbai to Bora Bora efficiently, minimizing stress and delays.

• Book international flights early:

  Secure your Mumbai to major hub flights 2–3 months in advance, especially for travel during peak seasons like June-August or December-January.

• Plan layovers carefully:

  Choose flights with at least 3 hours between connections to handle immigration, customs, and baggage transfers smoothly.

• Arrange domestic flights in French Polynesia:

  Book your Tahiti to Bora Bora Air Tahiti flights separately if not included, as these have limited seats and fixed schedules.

• Reach Mumbai airport early:

  Arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight to clear security and immigration without rush, especially at Terminal 2.

• Pack essentials for long travel:

  Carry snacks, a neck pillow, and entertainment for the long journey. Keep travel documents and boarding passes handy for multiple check-ins.

• On arrival in Bora Bora:

  Use prepaid boat transfers arranged by your resort or local taxis to reach your accommodation from the airport.

Practical Travel Tips

• Visa and entry requirements:

  Indian passport holders need a valid visa or ESTA for transit countries like the USA. Check requirements well before booking.

• IRCTC and airline apps:

  Use IRCTC for domestic train bookings to the airport and airline apps for real-time flight updates and mobile boarding passes.

• Local transport in Bora Bora:

  The island is small; resorts often provide shuttle services. Renting bikes or scooters is popular but limited.

• Currency and payments:

  Carry some US dollars as French Polynesia uses CFP Francs, and not all places accept cards. ATMs are limited on the island.

• Food and water safety:

  Stick to bottled water and eat at trusted resorts or restaurants to avoid stomach issues during your stay.

• Seasonal packing:

  Pack light cotton clothes for warm weather, but include a rain jacket if traveling during the wet season.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Bora Bora is during the dry season when weather is pleasant and flights are less likely to be disrupted. Mumbai’s climate and flight availability also influence your travel experience.

Travelers should avoid the cyclone season and plan flights to avoid peak Mumbai traffic hours for airport transfers.

• Avoid traveling between November and April due to cyclone risks and heavy rains in Bora Bora.

• Depart Mumbai early morning or late night to avoid city traffic and ensure timely arrival at the airport.

• Book flights during May to October for clear skies and comfortable temperatures in Bora Bora.

• Plan around major Indian festivals like Diwali or Holi to avoid inflated airfare and crowded airports.

Arrival at Bora Bora & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Bora Bora Airport, travelers experience a small, open-air terminal with limited facilities but stunning views of the lagoon. The island’s relaxed vibe welcomes visitors immediately.

Local transport mainly consists of boat transfers arranged by resorts or taxis. Nearby attractions include Matira Beach and Mount Otemanu, with most accommodations clustered near the lagoon.

Prepaid boat shuttles are recommended for hassle-free transfers. If arriving late, confirm your resort’s pickup service in advance or use local taxi boats available at the dock.

Conclusion

Flying remains the most efficient and practical way to reach Bora Bora from Mumbai, with well-planned connections through major international hubs. Booking flights early and allowing ample layover time ensures a smooth journey.

With careful planning and awareness of seasonal factors, travelers can confidently embark on this exotic trip to Bora Bora, ready to enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful island paradises.