Best Time To Visit Bora Bora: The Secret Weeks To Book Now

Oct 10, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 15, 2026

Travel Guides

The lagoon of Bora Bora is not just beautiful but more like a paradise, especially when it is still untouched by all the tourist-related issues! So we’ll tell you the best time to visit Bora Bora so you can start planning your vacation.

You can fly to Bora Bora from the U.S. in about 28 hours!

I know that’s a long time, but if you want to experience some of the best things, you have to work hard! Read the article to learn about the best time to visit Bora Bora and how to get there!

An unspoiled paradise, Bora Bora is one of the world’s finest beaches. Much of the Island is surrounded by nature, from beaches to mountains.

It is an enchanting place to be, and when you visit Bora Bora, you feel like you are in a comfort zone without worry and stress.

Known for its unique features, from mountains to beaches, Bora Bora’s geography is fascinating!

The water is as blue as it gets, and the different colors of the water are therapeutic, so yes, pack your bag, dude!

Bora Bora Bliss: Your Ultimate Guide To Timing Your Dream Vacation!

Bora Bora Bliss Dream Vacation
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A volcanic island, Bora Bora is located in the Society Islands of the Leeward group of French Polynesia.

The Island is located south of the Pacific Ocean while Northwest of Tahiti, almost about 165 miles, so the best part is the limited number of visitors.

Let me tell you how free and relaxed Bora Bora feels! In peak season, French Polynesia gets the total number of visitors in a year similar to that of Hawaii in one week!

You will never feel claustrophobic when you visit Bora Bora because the aesthetic is quite relaxed.

Bora Bora came from the initial name “Pora pora mai te pora” in Tahitian! The phrase means “created by the gods,” while the abbreviation became “Pora Pora,” which also means firstborn.

So, what did you realize? The phrase has no B in it.

So then, how did it get its name, Bora Bora?

Explorers and settlers who visited Bora Bora could not clearly understand the phrase or the pronunciation, which led to misinterpretation into “Bola Bola” or “Bora Bora”!

Now, the place is known as Bora Bora!

History Of Bora Bora!

History Of Bora Bora!
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An active volcano is the source of the Island, which, millions of years ago, was in the center of the Island!

The volcano is now extinct, giving rise to two peaks, namely Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia.

The volcano is now dormant, but it has created beautiful geographical features.

The volcano’s vistas have created spectacular views of impressive mountain terrain, soft sandy beaches, and coral reefs.

Apart from its formation, the Island was important during World War II to establish a U.S. supply base in 1941 in response to the Pearl Harbor bombing.

During Operation Bobcat in WWII, the island served as a defensive fortification center, seaplane base, airstrip, and oil depot. The Island housed 6000 soldiers between 1942 and 19456.

The place has a rich history, contributing further to its beauty.

Tahitian culture, language, and traditions inspire visitors and tourists, especially through its integration of tattoos, dance, crafts, and arts!

The region is popular for its native ancestry and the art inspired by it! Heiva i Fete is an annual event to showcase art, dance, and tattoos.

What Are Your Reasons To Book Bora Bora?

What Are Your Reasons To Book Bora Bora
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One of the major reasons you must visit Bora Bora is because there is no crowd, even though its name is well-known among people, especially tourists and travelers.

I don’t know how many more times I will repeat that the place is the very definition of paradise, given that there is such a place!

So, if you are wondering, the best time to travel to Bora Bora? Read the article to know more.

I will make a list of why you should go to Bora Bora, considering this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Geographical Features

A dramatic peak, Mt Otemanu, is something you cannot miss, especially to learn about the volcanic past of the Island.

A string of little islands or coral motus surrounds the mountain, creating perfect natural beauty for visitors!

Exclusive Place To Be

An exotic vision, Bora Bora is a treat to visitors’ eyes and souls, so if you are spending a vacation there, you are one of the most privileged travelers worldwide!

Only some people go there or, should we say, cannot, because the place is expensive!

They Are Isolated And Unspoiled!

You will not get a cheap cruise, and you won’t be able to take road trips! You have to fly to Tahiti to access this Island, which mostly takes more than three plane rides.

As a result, it has become an exclusive destination for travelers who love isolated places.

It is one of the most untouched beaches worldwide, with clean water and no waste. As it is often said, French Polynesia is a pure place as most islands are pristine by modernism, industrialism, and capitalism.

The natives have integrated their culture, creating a secluded environment perfect for people seeking a luxurious, organic escape.

Unique Experience!

You can enjoy unique experiences, some too adventurous compared to other places, such as swimming with sharks! I know it sounds dangerous, but it’s not! Trust me!

Trained staff will help you enjoy some of the coolest experiences, including tropical fish swimming in a bathtub and watching the sunset across the lagoon!

You can also gorge on some of the best French delicacies!

Experience Bora Bora – To Its Hilt!

Experience Bora Bora - To Its Hilt
Image Source: annaeverywhere.com

I know! You are neck-deep in extensive research on how to travel to Bora Bora! Did we crop up in your search? Well, for good reasons!

I will share some of the best experiences in Bora Bora, the places you must visit, and the food you must try!

Discoveries are waiting for you in Bora Bora, and it sure was for me!

Some travelers have shared their insights on the place, and one pattern that I have noticed is that everyone has a unique and different realization from their visit to Bora Bora!

The breathtaking Island has white sandy beaches, blue water in the lagoons, and coral gardens, while hiking on the mountain!

The lush green vegetation creates beautiful locales, so let’s explore more features that will confirm your plans for Bora Bora! Wondering when is the best time to go to Bora Bora? Read along!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Bora Bora?

What Is The Best Time To Visit Bora Bora
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When do you think, best time to go to Bora Bora? If you want fine weather, visit Bora Bora in November or April!

The temperature is between the mid-70s and mid-80s and is known as the wet season because of the rain! So, the Bora Bora rainy season is the perfect time to be!

The best part is the stunning sunset, soft breeze, and vibrant rainbows that follow the rain!

During these months, if you want to wear skimpy clothes and dip in the water at the beach, this is your time, ladies!

However, the best time to visit Bora Bora is between May and October!

It is called the high season because the weather is drier, with isolated rain showers and dry spells, which brings more tourists.

Bora Bora is perfect for boat excursions, scuba diving, and snorkeling all year round, so if you are a water baby, you must visit the place to enjoy the water activities.

If you are looking to visit Bora Bora but are restricted in budget, go in December, when you will find deals on flights and accommodations quite cheap!

There are fewer tourists, which gives you more privacy and better value for your money.

Where To Go!

Where To Go
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Three villages make up Bora Bora: Vaitape, Faanui, and Anau. Depending on your mood and preferences, they offer beautiful places for adventure, unwinding, and relaxation!

The activities to do there are diverse, especially with both high ground and water surrounding you.

Do not forget to explore the marine life, soak in the sun, and visit the villages to buy Tahitian black pearls, colorful pareo wraps, scented oils, soaps, and handmade crafts.

The five places you must visit when traveling to Bora Bora are as follows:

Mt. Otemanu

Mt. Otemanu
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The mountain is as green as it gets! An enigma in itself, especially when it has formed in the heart of the Island, the mountain is volcanic and can be seen from far away, from any point on the Island.

A guided hike is what I will suggest you do if you are an adventure person, or else get yourself a boat to experience the beauty of it!

Lagoonarium

Lagoonarium
Image Source: thalasso.intercontinental.com

Do you love visiting aquariums? Do you want to know a place where you can check out different marine life without the glass, feeling as real as it gets?

The Lagoonarium is one such attraction at Bora Bora, where the motus has formed from the outer ring of the lagoon.

It boasts a wide variety of sea animals as they are in their natural habitat.

You can watch turtles and sharks and enjoy swimming with them!

You can also feed sharks and rays, which is part of your tourist bucket list.

Motu Tapu

Motu Tapu
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One of the most photographable beaches in the South Pacific, it is a mixture of beauty and luxury, as there are beautiful resorts, especially for special guests!

They enjoy their days with the most beautiful sunsets and Tahitian meals on the shore.

For a quintessential experience, you must adore wraparound skirts and wear flowers in your hair!

If anything was missing, it is this to make you feel like you are in paradise.

Matira Beach

Matira Beach
Image Source: www.worldbeachguide.com

To experience white sand and coconut groves, visit Matira beach at Bora Bora. It is one of the best times to visit Bora Bora and a perfect background for that perfect beach day!

You can snorkel, and swimmers can enjoy watching tropical fishes of different varieties along with colorful corals!

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens
Image Source: www.tohoraborabora.com

The reef population of Bora Bora Island is incomparable, and you have to go snorkeling to check them out below water!

Around the Island, the reefs are colorful, and there are different types of fish, such as pufferfish, snapper, grouper, butterflyfish, and Picasso triggerfish!

What To Eat!

What To Eat
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Bora Bora is pricey because much of the food is imported. However, the local Polynesian food is fresh and so delicious you will fall in love!

Why don’t you save some time and enjoy yourself by combining Polynesian and Tahitian food, dance, and the whole cultural experience on the shores?

Roulette Matira

Roulette Matira
Image Source: www.boraboraislandguide.com

Specializing in Polynesian cuisine, the restaurant is well established, but compared to others, it is more recent!

It’s the perfect snack bar, with delicious smoothies, burgers, and samosas! If you are looking for something affordable and friendly, this is it!

Lagoon Restaurant By Jean-Georges

Lagoon Restaurant By Jean-Georges
Image Source: resizer.otstatic.com

With a sea view, this restaurant serves delicious food! Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor based on 771 reviews, people are in love with the food and the ambiance!

You can order anything from contemporary, Polynesian, European, Seafood, and French in this restaurant!

There is a glass floor of the lagoon, which creates a beautiful vibe! The staff is friendly while you visit for after-hours drinks and dinner!

They also offer vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly food.

Bloody Mary’s

Bloody Mary's
Image Source: www.tahiti.com

One of the most popular restaurants in Bora Bora, Bloody Mary’s, has 1695 reviews on Tripadvisor, where people appreciate the food, atmosphere, and service!

Different cuisines are available in the Polynesian, Tahitian, Seafood, Bar, and American restaurants!

You can go to the restaurant for lunch, drinks, dinner, and after-hours! The reason why the restaurant is popular is that a lot of celebrities visit here!

The wooden tables cover the floor with sand, giving an exotic experience.

Tama’s Maitai

Tama's Maitai
Image Source: www.tripadvisor.in

The restaurant is rated 4 out of 5 based on 233 reviews. You know what I mean! This restaurant will offer international, European, French, and Polynesian cuisines!

The food and the service are well-regarded by the customers!

There are both table service, reservations, and outdoor seating! They serve alcohol with a full bar, so keep the drinks coming!

The food, the lagoon view, and the efficient, friendly staff are beautiful!

Best Time To Visit Bora Bora: Have You Booked Tickets Yet?

With all the discussion and research, you know what? I am ready for a vacation at Bora Bora.

Now that I have shared with you the best time to visit Bora Bora, start saving up, or if you already have money, take that break, girl!

With a variety of cuisines and cultures, get inspired and enjoy the island’s beautiful geography and diverse marine life!

A laid-back, casual experience of the restaurants, sandy beaches, coconut groves, and water activities will create memories for a lifetime.

Comment below with what you think is Bora Bora’s best feature and why!

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh – Himachal Pradesh Guide

BY  Barsha Aug 17, 2022

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BY  Sibashree Nov 12, 2025

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Also, it has coordinated many conservation efforts and earned funding for local conservation projects.  2. Aotea Conservation Park  The conservation park covers a 2,000-hectare area. It has walking tracks, DOC huts, and campsites. All these make the island an ideal destination for exploring the wildlife.  3. Marine Conservation  The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust’s Tai Timu Tai Pari” or “Sea Change” initiative aims to protect the marine ecosystem of the Hauraki Gulf. Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has proposed to build a large marine conservation area in the northeast corner of the island.  In addition, beach clean-ups and educational programs have been effective local endeavors to preserve the marine life of the island.  4. Biodiversity And Species Protection  The island is a critical nesting ground for the black petrels. The Department of Conservation takes care of the nesting ground.  Furthermore, around 60% of the pāteke population in New Zealand is present on the Great Barrier Island. These birds are frequently spotted in places such as Kaitoke Wetlands.  You can visit the Kaitoke Wetlands just before dusk. Park at the end of the road, walk the flat boardwalk, and wait quietly by the main pond. You will almost certainly see and hear the rare pāteke (brown teal) as they come out to feed. Chevron skink, 13 different types of lizards, banded rail, and North Island Kaka are some other native species here. What Are The Must-See Wildlife Attractions On The Aotea Great Barrier Island In New Zealand?  The Glenfern Sanctuary, Aotea Track, Kaitoke Hot Springs, and the coastal areas are ideal for spotting the unique and rich wildlife.  1. The Pāteke (Brown Teal) Pāteke is one of the rarest ducks in the world. The Great Barrier Island is a stronghold for these ducks, and you will find them in the Kaitoke Wetlands.  The Department of Conservation and Predator Free NZ Trust are two important bodies taking care of the conservation efforts to protect these birds. Habitat management and predator control are two main elements of protecting the Pāteke birds.  Now, you understand why biosecurity is so crucial for these adorable ducks on the Great Barrier Island.  2. The Black Petrel (Takoketai) This seabird breeds only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier islands. They nest in burrows high in the mountains. The Glenfern Sanctuary protects a key colony of these birds.  However, the main breeding colony on Aotea is at Mount Hobson/Hirakimata. According to the Department of Conservation, around 900-1000 pairs of birds stay there.  These birds are featured on the IUCN Red List as a vulnerable species. Furthermore, they are identified as “Nationally Vulnerable” in New Zealand.  Moreover, there has been a conservation monitoring going on since 1995 to assess the population of these birds and how they are declining.  3. The Chevron Skink (Niho Taniwha) This large, rare lizard is found only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier. It is almost like a mythical animal, and spotting it is very unlikely.  However, they mostly stay in the Stream-side forests. It is listed as nationally vulnerable by the Threat Classification System of the Department of Conservation.  The sightings of these lizards are so important that DOC asks you to report to the local office or call +64 9 429 0044 whenever you spot one.  4. The North Island Kākā It is a large, intelligent, and noisy native parrot. It is famous for the loud "screech" and "chatter. I saw a few of them high in the forest canopy along the Mt Hobson track.  The Glenfern Sanctuary is another spot where you will find these parrots. The Great Barrier Island is an important habitat for these birds as it offers a predator-free environment.  5. Dolphins And Marine Life Aotea’s location on the edge of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, the national park of the sea, makes it rich in marine life. The Hauraki Gulf and the Great Barrier Island were both formed due to massive volcanic activity at the end of the Ice Age.  In 1769, James Cook named the island because of how it protected the Hauraki Gulf.  The water of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has 22 species of marine mammals. Bottlenose and common dolphins are often seen from the ferry or playing in bays like Okupu (Blind Bay) and Whangaparapara Harbour. You may even spot Bryde's whales there.  Furthermore, seabirds are important members of the Marine Park. Black petrels are, of course, the most common among them.  Coastal camping is the best outdoor experience if you want to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are some popular coastal campsites.  Akapoua Bay Campsite Near Port Fitzroy, Ideal for Spotting Pohutukawa Trees and Fishing Awana Beach Campsite, Ideal for Surfers Harataonga Campsite, Great for Swimming and Snorkeling Medlands Beach Campsite, Surfing and Picnic Spot  The Green Campsite at Whangaparapara Harbour, Ideal for a Serene Walk and as a Secluded Retreat Whangapoua Campsite, a Popular Surf-Break.  A Guide To Aotea Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Species, Sanctuaries, And Different Types Of Wildlife Tours  During the wildlife tours, our primary concern was how to spot native birds on Great Barrier Island. Little did we know that we would hear them before actually seeing them flapping their wings.  We heard the screeching call of kākā as we were hiking through the Mount Hobson Track. Then, we saw a cloud of birds passing over our heads.  Nevertheless, it’s not just about the birds. Aotea, Great Barrier Island in New Zealand, is home to endless endemic species.  1. Specialist Day Tours & Sanctuary Visits The Glenfern Sanctuary of the Great Barrier Island is a haven for endangered and rare species. It is an 83-acre regional park. Also, it functions as the “gateway to the 240-hectare Kotuku Peninsula of the north-west coastline of the Great Barrier Island.” Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary Trust is committed to the preservation of the endangered flora and fauna and their habitats. As you walk through the 2km loop track through native bush, you can spot the birds and native species.  The black petrels and the ancient Kauri trees are the biggest highlights of this tour. The sanctuary remains open 7 days a week and from sunrise to sunset.  Moreover, you must hike through the Sanctuary and Loop Track to explore nature, wildlife, and the unique local culture.  Sanctuary And Loop Track The Glefern Loop Track is one of the easiest Great Barrier Island hiking tracks. Here, you will have to walk along the Aotea stream and through the remnants of an ancient native bush.  The bush is protected by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust of New Zealand, and it is rich in birdlife. So, here, you will spot black petrels, Kaka, and Pāteke.  You can contact the regional office at 09 4290 091 to know about the further details.  2. The All-Inclusive Multi-Day Guided Walk If you want a more immersive wildlife experience, you must choose the all-inclusive multi-day guided walks. MoaTours and Go Great Barrier Island Tourism are two such services taking care of your accommodation, food, expert guides, and transport.  They focus on the best tracks, like the Aotea Track, Mt Hobson, and Kaitoke Wetlands. Furthermore, the guides are flora and fauna experts. For example, you can try the “Let’s Go Wild,” “The Aotea Track” package of the Great Barrier Island. Two of the main highlights of this tour are the wetlands and the unique wildlife.  It is a 3-day hiking experience, and the charge per person (adults) will be $541 (Standard Route) or $596 (The Windy Canyon Route).  MoaTours, on the other hand, organizes a 5-day Great Barrier Island small group tour. This tour covers areas such as the Medlands Beach and Tryphena Harbour. The charges will be $4,390 NZD for solo travelers and $3,890 NZD for twin travelers.  3. Self-Guided Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  The self-guided tours to explore the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for an independent traveler. For example, you can go for the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks and learn about the biodiversity of the sanctuary.  You can contact Steve, the manager of the sanctuary, at 0210826670 to be a part of these tours.  Furthermore, you can create your own Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. So, plan a visit to the Kaitoke Wetlands, Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track, Medlands Beach & Onetangi, and Windy Canyon.  How To Spot Native Birds On Great Barrier Island? A DIY Guide For Wildlife Tours  I have already mentioned the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks. Along with that, you can visit any of these areas for a perfect wildlife exploration on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Kaitoke Wetlands The Glefern Sanctuary offers a guided tour to the Kaitoke Hot Springs, located on the Mount Hobson Track. You can access the track from the Whangaparapara Road.  Furthermore, you will find a series of geothermal pools on the Kaitoke Hot Springs track. This area, maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC), is a treasure hub for native birds.  Here, we had to walk through an easy boardwalk and gravel road to encounter pāteke and spotless crakes. And thanks to the new Kai swing bridge here, the route has now become wheelchair and buggy accessible.  Even when we were swimming in the geothermal pools, we could listen to the calls of the pātekes.  2. Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track The Peach Tree Track to Mount Hobson is the best route for spotting native birds and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island. The route passes through regenerating forests, and these forests are home to a lot of native bird species, such as: Kākā Tūī: Tomtit (Miromiro) North Island Robin (Pītoitoi) Black Petrel (Takoketai) You can spot these birds in the dense native bush. Also, you can see them in large numbers near the high slopes and close to the summit. In addition, the 360-degree view of the island is a bonus you will love to count on.  3. Medlands Beach & Onetangi Medlands Beach and Onetangi are famous for coastal and nearshore wildlife like the paradise shelducks and little blue penguins.  Furthermore, wekas are common in these locations, and these are chosen as the reintroduction programs of the North Island brown kiwi.  4. Windy Canyon On the Windy Canyon hiking route, you will find conservation centers such as Kiwi Park Queenstown. Here, you will find native species such as tuatara and Kiwi.  Furthermore, throughout the route, you will listen to the buzzing cicadas.  The Best Tips For Spotting The Birds On The Great Barrier Island  Dawn and dusk are the best hours of the day for spotting birds on the Great Barrier Island. “Dawn Chorus” is a real experience on the Great Barrier Island.  Once you reach the spot, be patient and wait quietly, as patience is a virtue for birdwatching.  Keep your ears open. You'll hear the tūī's "click-whirr-gurgle" and the kākā's "screech" before you see them. Going nocturnal is a great trick for watching the native birds of the Great Barrier Island. That is why being a Dark Sky Sanctuary is crucial for the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  Carry a red-light torch and be alert for the "more-pork" call of the Ruru to spot the birds in the dark.  Talk to the staff of the hotel or the owner of the homestay you are staying in. They will have the best local tips about birdwatching on the Great Barrier Island.  How To Plan The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours?  There are three main aspects of planning Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. 1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island? You can take a Barrier Air flight from Auckland to reach the Great Barrier Island in 45 minutes. You can even take the SeaLink ferry and complete a journey of 4.5 hours to reach the Great Barrier Island.  2. How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island? Renting a car or a bike is the most convenient option to move around the island. Furthermore, kayaking is an excellent way to explore the bays, caves, and diverse marine life of the island.  3. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Barrier Island Wildlife? From September to November, or the spring season, is the ideal time to visit the wildlife of Great Barrier Island. This is the nesting season for most birds on the island.  So, these months are the best for listening to the chorus of the dawn and the dusk.  Being A Responsible Tourist To Protect The Wildlife Of The Great Barrier Island Biosecurity is the most important aspect of the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. The wildlife of the island is thriving as it is maintained as a sanctuary. So, by cooperating with the biosecurity checks at the DoC-approved facilities and cleaning stations, we have to be a part of the conservation effort.  The 3C policy of the biosecurity checks on the Great Barrier Island is: Check Clean Check We have to check our bags, gear, and shoes for pests (rats, mice, insects) and seeds before they leave the mainland.  Your Great Barrier Adventure Awaits The Aotea Great Barrier Island is a nature lover’s dream. Here, every nook awaits a surprise with the native birds and their playful chirps. Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary, Mount Hobson Track, and the wetlands are a stronghold for rare and endemic birds and animals.  So, the birds are calling. Are you ready to answer?