Can you swim with pigs in Bora Bora? It’s surprisingly the second time I’ve seen this question pop up in my Facebook group, and I totally get why. Those pictures of pigs swimming in a beautiful blue lagoon that looks like Bora Bora are all over Instagram, so naturally the question arises.
But here’s the thing, I hate to break it to you, but NO, you can’t swim with pigs in Bora Bora. But there are some other pretty cool animals that you CAN swim with. Keep reading!
Can You Swim With Pigs in Bora Bora?
While there are pigs on the island of Bora Bora (you may even spot them near the beautiful Matira Beach), unfortunately, you can’t swim with them.
People often mistake Bora Bora for the Bahamas, where swimming with pigs has become quite popular (that must be so much fun, I’m a bit jealous! 😜).
But don’t be disappointed, Bora Bora offers an array of other amazing animals that you can actually swim with, such as graceful manta rays, colorful tropical fish, and even gentle sharks, creating unforgettable underwater experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike!
What animals can you swim with in Bora Bora?
Swim with Sharks in Bora Bora
Swimming with cute pigs may not be on your agenda, but let me tell you about an adventure like no other – swimming with sharks in Bora Bora! It’s an exhilarating experience that brings you up close and personal with these magnificent creatures of the deep. Imagine diving into the crystal-clear, warm waters of Bora Bora’s lagoon, home to a variety of shark species.
You’ll encounter the harmless blacktip reef sharks and if you’re lucky, the elusive lemon sharks. And guess what? You might even come across whale sharks during this tour if you’re EXTRA fortunate! With experienced local guides by your side, you can safely swim and snorkel among these awe-inspiring predators. Observe their graceful movements and gain a deep appreciation for their vital role in the ecosystem.
Trust me, this encounter will be one of the highlights of your trip to Bora Bora, leaving you with a profound respect for these misunderstood creatures. Get ready for an adventure that will make your heart race and create memories to last a lifetime!
- Best shared tour to swim with the sharks
- Best private tour to swim with the sharks
- Best tour to (potentially) see whale sharks in Bora Bora
Swim with humpback whales in Bora Bora
Another unforgettable animal encounter in Bora Bora is swimming with majestic humpback whales. These gentle giants migrate to the warm waters of French Polynesia during the dry season (July through November) to give birth to the babies, providing nature enthusiasts with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside them.
As you glide through the water next to these magnificent creatures, you’ll feel a sense of peace and connection with nature that is truly indescribable. The sound of their haunting songs will stay with you long after the encounter is over.
The safety and well-being of the whales are always top priority during these tours. Respectful distance and behavior guidelines are strictly followed to ensure minimal disturbance to these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
This incredible experience will not only leave you in awe but also educate and inspire you to preserve and protect these gentle giants for future generations.
Insider Tips
If you are also planning to visit Moorea during your trip, you’ll have higher chances to spot whales there VS in Bora Bora.
Swim with Manta Rays
Bora Bora is also home to magnificent manta rays, and swimming with these graceful creatures is another must-do experience on the island. These gentle giants can have a wingspan of up to 20 feet, making for an impressive sight as they glide through the crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures will give you a sense of weightlessness and leave you feeling like you’re flying. Similar to swimming with humpback whales, safety and conservation are top priorities during these tours. Rules and guidelines are strictly enforced to ensure the well-being of the manta rays and their habitat.
These tours also provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about the importance of protecting these animals and their ocean environment.
Insider Tips
The spots where manta rays can be seen while snorkeling are also their feeding grounds. Since they feed on plankton, the underwater visibility in these areas might not be great on most days due to the presence of plankton. If you want to observe them more clearly, booking a dive is a better option.
Swim with Stingrays & Eagle Rays
Stingrays and eagle rays are another fascinating marine species that can be found in the waters of Bora Bora. Stingrays are incredibly friendly and are often referred to as sea pets. They fearlessly approach and come remarkably close to humans.
On the contrary, eagle rays are more timid and tend to keep their distance. They can be easily frightened but are frequently spotted gracefully swimming in the ocean depths. It’s not uncommon to witness mesmerizing displays of up to 50 eagle rays, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. Snorkeling alongside them is a unique experience that will leave you in awe of their beauty and grace.
Other animals to swim with in Bora Bora
French Polynesia is a sanctuary for marine life, where you’ll encounter various species. Keep an eye out for octopuses, moray eels, cute puffer fish, and Napoleon fish while snorkeling. Spotting turtles or dolphins is also possible but require a bit of luck.
Insider Tips
When you’re exploring the lagoon in Bora Bora, remember it’s not a zoo. It’s all about having an authentic experience! During your tour, you might get lucky and come across amazing marine creatures like manta rays, eagle rays, dolphins, turtles, and even whales if it’s their season. But hey, no guarantees! Just embrace the excitement and wonder of the lagoon, because every encounter with these majestic animals is truly special and unique.
So, where Can You actually Swim With Pigs?
Swimming with pigs is a unique experience that can only be found in the Bahamas. To be more specific, you’ll need to visit Big Major Cay, one of the Exuma islands, also known as ‘Pig Island’ locally. At Pig Beach, you’ll discover adorable pigs frolicking in the crystal-clear water and enjoying themselves on the beautiful sandy shore. The only way to access Pig Beach is by joining a boat tour.
And… voilà ! Even if swimming with pigs is not an option in Bora Bora, you’ll have plenty of unforgettable experiences swimming with other amazing marine creatures in the stunning lagoon. So don’t hesitate to dive into the turquoise waters and explore all that Bora Bora has to offer! Have a great time in paradise!
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