Things To Do
in New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a French territory located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, known for its palm-lined beaches, rich marine biodiversity, and a unique blend of Melanesian culture and French influence. It is comprised of the main island, Grande Terre, which is surrounded by smaller islands and is notable for its large barrier reef that encircles a lagoon of exceptional beauty and ecological diversity.
Economically, New Caledonia is one of the world's largest nickel producers, but tourism, driven by its natural beauty and cultural heritage, plays a significant role in its economy as well.
- "Kao dji oui" - How are you?
- "Mä'ö" - Thank you
- "Nö khädy" - Goodbye
- "Ndö bini" - Welcome
- "Né dji" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Anse Vata Beach for some sun and relaxation. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the seaside cafes.
Visit the local markets in Nouméa for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Spend some time at the Tjibaou Cultural Center to learn about Kanak culture.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant that offers fresh seafood and local specialties. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the sunset.
Take an early ferry to the Isle of Pines and savor the stunning views on the way. Once you arrive, relax on the pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Explore the stunning natural landscapes, including the famous Kanumera Bay and its surrounding greenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of palm trees.
Experience a traditional Kanak dinner with local delicacies at a beachside restaurant. Unwind under the stars with the gentle sound of waves in the background.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush mountains.
- Rich cultural diversity, with a blend of indigenous Kanak culture and French influence.
- Mild climate, making it an ideal destination for year-round tourism.
- Economy supported by nickel mining, tourism, and agriculture.
- Relatively low crime rate compared to other regions.
- High cost of living, with imported goods and services often being expensive.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas.
- Political tensions and debates surrounding independence from France.
- Geographical isolation, leading to challenges in transportation and connectivity.
- Environmental concerns related to mining and tourism impact on natural ecosystems.
Best Activities in New Caledonia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the colorful marine life and coral reefs in the clear waters of New Caledonia.
Discover the diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountains, on the many hiking trails available.
Enjoy activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding in the pristine lagoons.
Immerse yourself in the local Kanak culture and visit traditional villages and cultural sites.
Tours
Uncover the best of New Caledonia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in New Caledonia
Visit one of these nice places.
Located on Amedee Island, this lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lagoon and reef, perfect for photography.
These unique limestone caves and rock formations near Hienghene provide spectacular photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The dramatic cliffs along the coast of Lifou Island overlook crystal-clear waters, making it a picturesque spot for capturing the natural beauty of New Caledonia.
Food in New Caledonia
New Caledonia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bougna is a traditional Melanesian dish made with chicken, fish, or lobster, cooked in coconut milk with yams, taro, and bananas, wrapped in banana leaves and baked in an earth oven. It is a must-try dish for visitors to experience the authentic flavors of New Caledonia.
Must-Try!
Po'e is a popular Polynesian dessert made from bananas, papayas, or plantains, mixed with coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, then steamed or baked. It's a sweet treat that showcases the tropical fruits of the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know New Caledonia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Nouméa, this market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample freshly prepared street food such as grilled fish, coconut crab, and tropical fruit juices.
This bustling market in Nouméa is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse food stalls. Visitors can indulge in a variety of street food options, from traditional New Caledonian snacks to international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the indigenous Kanak culture in New Caledonia. This includes being mindful of traditional customs, such as asking for permission before entering certain areas or participating in cultural activities.
Greeting others with a verbal greeting and a handshake is the customary way to show respect in New Caledonia. Use of formal titles and addressing elders with respect is also important.
While French is the predominant language, making an effort to use a few basic words in the traditional Kanak languages, such as Drehu, Nengone, or Paicî, can be appreciated as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of New Caledonia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in New Caledonia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in New Caledonia, and it is generally not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip or rounding up the bill can be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
In New Caledonia, the official currency is the CFP franc. Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. It's also common to use cash for smaller transactions, and ATMs are widely available in urban areas for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Caledonia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit for warm and sunny weather, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and hiking.
Expect higher humidity and increased rainfall, but also lush green landscapes. This period is favorable for birdwatching and enjoying fewer crowds.
New Caledonia at Night
Hiking in New Caledonia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This provincial park features beautiful trails through lush rainforests and along the stunning blue river. It offers various hiking options suitable for different fitness levels.
Mont Koghi is the highest peak in New Caledonia, and the hike to the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding region. The trail is steep but rewarding.
This unique trail takes you through three ancient caves and offers a chance to explore the geological features of the area. The walk is moderately challenging.
Known for its stunning beaches, Île des Pins also has several hiking trails that provide scenic views of the coastline and the famous pine trees.
A popular hiking destination that offers a relatively short but steep climb with panoramic views over the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into New Caledonia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach New Caledonia by plane.
The main international airport serving New Caledonia, located approximately 52 km from Nouméa.
Located in Nadi, Fiji, it's a major international gateway to the South Pacific, approximately 1,070 km from New Caledonia.
A major airport nearest to New Caledonia, with connections to various destinations in the region.
The main international airport serving Brisbane, Australia, located about 2,400 km from New Caledonia.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, approximately 2,900 km from New Caledonia.
Australia's largest airport, located about 3,000 km from New Caledonia.
Located in Vanuatu, about 500 km from New Caledonia, serving as an international gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Melanesian people of New Caledonia, making up the largest demographic group.
People of European descent, primarily descended from French settlers, forming a significant part of the population.
People from Wallis and Futuna Islands, presenting a notable demographic presence in New Caledonia.
Including Vietnamese, Chinese, and other groups, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Various Polynesian groups contributing to the demographic landscape.
Includes smaller ethnic groups and expatriates from various countries.
The Soul of New Caledonia
Discover the essence of New Caledonia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in New Caledonia, with many local clubs and competitions. The sport has a significant following and is played at various levels.
Soccer, or football, is widely played in New Caledonia and features several local leagues and passionate fans. The national team also competes in regional tournaments.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity in New Caledonia, with many youth and adult teams participating in local competitions.
Outrigger canoeing is a traditional sport in New Caledonia, reflecting the region's maritime culture. Races and events often take place, showcasing this sport's significance.
With its beautiful beaches and warm oceans, swimming is a popular activity in New Caledonia, both as a sport and a leisure activity.
Beach and indoor volleyball are popular among residents, with various tournaments held throughout the year.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional New Caledonian cuisine heavily features seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes in Nouméa and popular tourist areas offer vegetarian and vegan options, typically centered around the abundant tropical produce.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find an increasing number of eateries in New Caledonia, particularly in Nouméa, offering gluten-free menu items or accommodating special dietary requests. It's advisable to communicate any dietary restrictions clearly to the staff when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of New Caledonia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Caledonia.