SITES DE PLONGÉE

Known worldwide, the Rangiroa Lagoon is one of the most prized of the Pacific, especially for the abundance of pelagic, but is far from knowing the tourist proliferation of Bora Bora.

Huge natural aquarium of 70 km long, Rangiroa actually only has a small diversity of sites, and few interesting coral formations, several cyclones having devastated sites.

Rangiroa draws mainly for the richness of its fauna, massaged in passes. Sharks of all kinds, napoléons, manta lines, barracuda, up with incredible density when reversing the flow currents.

Indeed, every 6 h, the tide creates a level differential between the lagoon and the ocean, offset by passes, where it forms violent and outgoing currents. Attention: many reckless or ignorant bathers have been dragged off by these currents and died.

Caution is therefore set, and it is still recommended that you never dive alone even in apnée. However, the lagoon is not dangerous far from the passes.

The Passe pass. This pass, which separates the main motu from that of Tiputa, consists in many remarkable spots, where you can see dolphins, barracuda, mule, surgeons, napoléons, and of course dozens of sharks. To report: The valley, so named for its topography, without coral - given the power of the current - where one can see hammers sharks. The cave with sharks, fiercely guarded by its tenants (less than 35 m) is accessible to experienced divers.

Easier, the East falls is not subject to currents, and allows beautiful dives with some dolphins. Finally, beginners can pass their baptism to the Motu Nuhi Nuhi, where despite the depth, you can see an impressive fauna of napoléons and grey lines.

The Passe pass. Along the village of Avatoru, this pass offers many possibilities: the caves, the fall west, the small pass near the Motu Fara, where one can observe many of the giant Manta lines (up to 7 m wide), as well as tuna and dozens of gray sharks.

Shortcomings. Finally, beautiful multi-coloured coral formations are visible at the Faults, one and a half hour from the village.