How to Get to Bora Bora From Chicago [2025 Guide] ️✈️
To get to Bora Bora from Chicago, you must take a series of flights, typically departing from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and flying first to Papeete, Tahiti (PPT), a hub in French Polynesia. From Papeete, you will take a 50-minute domestic flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB).
Dreaming of leaving the windy city behind for the turquoise lagoons of Bora Bora? If you’re planning your trip in 2025, this guide will explain exactly how to get from Chicago (ORD/MDW) to Bora Bora (BOB) with flights, costs, travel times, and insider tips. While there are no direct flights from Chicago to Bora Bora, the journey is straightforward once you know the best routes.
✈️ Step 1: Fly From Chicago to Tahiti (Papeete, PPT)
Your first big step is reaching Tahiti, the main entry point to French Polynesia. Since Chicago doesn’t have direct flights to Tahiti, you’ll need to connect through Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO).
Best Routes From Chicago (ORD):
- ORD → LAX → PPT
- Airlines: American, United, Delta, Air Tahiti Nui
- Duration: ~11–12 hrs total (including layover)
- Cost: $1,000 – $1,400 (one-way)
- ORD → SFO → PPT
- Airlines: United, Alaska Airlines, Delta, Air Tahiti Nui
- Duration: ~12–13 hrs
- Cost: $1,100 – $1,500 (one-way)
Most popular option: Chicago → Los Angeles → Tahiti, since LAX offers the most frequent flights to Tahiti.
✈️ Step 2: Fly From Tahiti to Bora Bora (BOB)
After landing in Tahiti, you’ll need a short domestic flight to Bora Bora.
- Airline: Air Tahiti
- Flight Duration: ~50 minutes
- Cost: $250 – $400 (one-way)
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights
Book this segment together with your international ticket if possible, to minimize risks of missed connections.
Visa & Entry Requirements for U.S. Travelers
- Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.
- Extras: Proof of accommodation and a return flight may be requested.
Total Travel Time From Chicago to Bora Bora
With connections and layovers, expect:
- Chicago → LAX → Tahiti → Bora Bora: ~14–16 hours
- Chicago → SFO → Tahiti → Bora Bora: ~15–17 hours
Estimated Cost (Round Trip 2025)
Here’s what you can expect for round-trip fares:
- Economy Class: $2,000 – $2,800
- Premium Economy: $3,200 – $4,200
- Business Class: $5,500 – $8,000
Booking at least 3–6 months in advance will help lock in better fares.
⛵ Transfers in Bora Bora
After landing at Bora Bora Airport (BOB), you’ll need a boat transfer to reach your resort or hotel.
- Luxury Resorts (St. Regis, Four Seasons, Conrad): Private boats ($100 – $150 per person).
- Budget Resorts/Guesthouses: Shared boats at lower prices.
Best Time to Visit Bora Bora From Chicago
- Dry Season (May – October): Best weather, little rain, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Wet Season (November – April): Cheaper rates, but expect humidity and occasional rain.
For Chicagoans, escaping winter months (December – March) is especially popular for warm sunshine in Bora Bora.
Summary Table – Chicago to Bora Bora Routes
| Route | Duration (One-Way) | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| ORD → LAX → PPT → BOB | 14–16 hrs | $2,000 – $2,800 |
| ORD → SFO → PPT → BOB | 15–17 hrs | $2,100 – $2,900 |
❓ FAQs – How to Get to Bora Bora From Chicago
Q1. Are there direct flights from Chicago to Bora Bora?
No. You must connect through Los Angeles or San Francisco to Tahiti, then fly to Bora Bora.
Q2. What’s the fastest route from Chicago to Bora Bora?
The quickest option is Chicago → Los Angeles → Tahiti → Bora Bora, about 14–16 hours total.
Q3. How much does it cost to fly from Chicago to Bora Bora in 2025?
Round-trip fares average $2,000 – $2,800 in economy class.
Q4. Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Bora Bora?
No. Americans can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Q5. What’s the cheapest time to fly to Bora Bora from Chicago?
The wet season (November – April) usually offers lower airfare and hotel rates.
Q6. How do I get from Bora Bora Airport to my resort?
Most resorts provide boat transfers, either private or shared, depending on your accommodation type.
✨ Flying from Chicago to Bora Bora in 2025 may require a few connections, but the reward is paradise itself. Whether you’re staying in an overwater bungalow or enjoying a local guesthouse, Bora Bora promises an unforgettable tropical escape.