Fees · Destination Guide
Bora Bora
Mantas, sharks, coral gardens, and overwater-lagoon logistics in the Pearl of the Pacific
Updated Apr 20, 2026 • 29 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Accommodation tourist tax - Varies by accommodation, commonly XPF 50 to XPF 200 per person per night
- Recreational scuba and snorkel marine permit - No standalone visitor permit identified
- Typical payment pattern: Bora Bora does not operate like a destination with a universal diver tag.
What people usually pay
Bora Bora does not operate like a destination with a universal diver tag. The main unavoidable visitor charges are accommodation taxes and operator tour prices. Conservation compliance matters more than buying a permit: obey no-feeding rules, whale-watching rules, mooring guidance, and the Popora Rahui closed zone.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation tourist tax | Varies by accommodation, commonly XPF 50 to XPF 200 per person per night Per night | Most non-resident hotel, resort, pension, or rental guests | Collected by accommodation, usually at check-in or check-out | Amounts vary by municipality and lodging class, and resorts may list additional service or resort charges separately. Confirm your booking's local tax line before arrival. |
| Recreational scuba and snorkel marine permit | No standalone visitor permit identified Not applicable | Guided scuba, freedive, and snorkel guests | Book through licensed local operators | Tour prices generally include boat access and guide services. This does not grant access to closed reserves or permission to touch, feed, or disturb wildlife. |
| Popora Rahui integral reserve | No ticket; closed to activity Ongoing protected-area regulation | Boats, divers, snorkelers, freedivers, fishers, and tours | Not for sale; obey local routing and signage | The Matira south reef reserve is a strict category 1 protected area. All activity is prohibited inside the reserve, so do not ask operators to enter for photos or shortcuts. |
| Accredited whale watching | Operator priced Seasonal and operator-specific | Whale watching or swim-with-whales activities in season | Accredited whale-watching operators | Whale approaches in French Polynesia are regulated. Book accredited guides, follow distance and behavior rules, and do not attempt self-guided whale swims. |
| BOB airport to Vaitape shuttle | Included with Air Tahiti ticket On Air Tahiti arrival and departure days | Air Tahiti passengers using the Bora Bora Navette | Included in eligible Air Tahiti air ticket | Some resorts use separate private boats, which may cost extra and should be arranged through the accommodation. |