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Are sharks in French Polynesia dangerous?

Shark attacks in French Polynesia are rare and are always the result of shark scorn or dubious behavior by humans. Whatever the activity practiced, rules can eliminate any danger.



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For example, tiger sharks Galeocerdo cuvier, which were the flagship species observed at the Vallée Blanche dive site in Tahiti between 2011 and 2017, 7 bite humans more often than any other shark species except the white shark Carcharias carcharodon.

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Despite their fierce reputation, sharks are generally inoffensive because of the abundance of other prey in the waters of The Islands of Tahiti.

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Mainly, the sharks in Bora Bora are not dangerous. They live under the green lagoons and are used to the presence of people. The most common type you'll see is Blacktip reef sharks. They're not aggressive, so you can easily get close to them.

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Is it safe to swim in French Polynesia? Most beaches in French Polynesia are safe to visit as they are in lagoons, which are protected from the dangers of the open ocean. However, some can have strong currents and tides. Some of the marine wildlife in French Polynesia is also dangerous.

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French Polynesia is also great for animals. And that is quite strange because since the islands are so far away from the inhabited world, there are not that many animals at all. You will not find monkeys, deadly spiders or snakes and no crocodiles here.

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You'll find one of the top Tahitian white sand beaches, Plage de Toaroto, west of Papeete. It's sensational for most beach activities including paddleboarding, snorkeling and swimming or sunbathing.

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A total of 13 tidal waves classified as a tsunami since 1837 have killed 2 people in French Polynesia. Compared to other countries, Tsunamis therefore occur rather rarely. The strongest tidal wave registered in French Polynesia so far reached a height of 20 meters.

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Can I drink tap water in Tahiti? Tap water in Papeete (Tahiti's capital) is safe to drink, as well as resorts in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Always check with hotel staff before you do so, just in case there is water contamination from flooding or cyclones.

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Fortunately, in French Polynesia, the islands are so remote and distant that there are no poisonous snakes or any snakes at all. There are also no poisonous bugs, and the only pest around are the sandflies that rarely bother travelers.

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Drinking water:
You can drink tap water in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora and in all the international resorts. It is usually fine in family hotels and in the other islands but we recommend that you ask your hosts for confirmation.

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Low season stretches from December to March when the weather is wet and visitors become mosquito bait. But really anytime is a good time to visit Bora Bora, since the weather is warm year-round.

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November to April (Low Season)
Bora Bora, Tahiti, and French Polynesia weather is hot, humid, and exotic. And while that may sound like the perfect paradise to some, it is not to everyone. If you're looking for the most comfortable visit possible, you'll want to avoid the wet season of November through April.

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There are many sharks in Bora Bora, although attacks on humans are rare. Still, it's best to steer clear of them, as well as Bora Bora's stingrays and barracudas. Wear reliable foot protection whenever you're in the ocean to fend off injuries from stonefish, urchins, and the coral itself.

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