Top experiences

The only way to truly understand the stockmen and their way of life is by visiting their farms, located deep in the New Caledonian bush. Watching the livestock being rounded up on horseback is always an impressive sight, and sharing a family meal with the bushmen is an excellent opportunity to sample the local products.

You cannot leave New Caledonia without sailing around Upi Bay in a traditional dugout canoe. Follow the current to the stunning Isle of Pines, concealed between huge coral rocks that seem to float on the turquoise lagoon. In terms of wildlife, keep a lookout for turtles, rays and dolphins!

From July to September, humpback whales come to give birth in the warm waters of the New Caledonian lagoon. Seeing these giants emerge from the waters is a truly extraordinary experience! The best way to witness these special moments is to take a catamaran from Prony Bay in the Great South or from Nouméa.

With calm water and constant winds, the Poé lagoon in Bourail is perfect for kitesurfing. After a few hours of lessons to master your kite, you can enjoy complete freedom on the water and in the air, whether you prefer speed or freestyling.

Taking off from Bourail Beach may be an impressive feat, but it is nothing compared to the view of the New Caledonian lagoon from the sky. Lacy coral, waves breaking on the barrier reef, schools of rays, endless shades of blue and green... No wonder it has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The The Giant Fern Park, in Farino is home to many incredible plant and bird species: prehistoric tree ferns, goliath imperial pigeons, cagous, green pigeons... Armed with binoculars and accompanied by a guide, you can discover these birds in their natural environment. It's heaven on earth for all you birders and twitchers!

Just across from Nouméa, Ilot Canard is the perfect spot to spend a lazy day. This islet includes a restaurant/bar, and can be accessed by taxi boat from Anse Vata. The underwater trail provides an excellent overview of the various species of coral and tropical fish. Just put on your snorkel and flippers and take in the incredible marine life around you.

Put on your walking boots and tackle the GR® NC1 hiking trail that cuts across the southern tip of Grande Terre, either by yourself or with a guide. This long-distance footpath ("Grande Randonnée") is divided into 7 stages of 5-8 hours to suit enthusiasts and athletes alike. From the red landscape of the Great South to the Dumbéa rainforest, remember to pack supplies and enjoy the view!

On the wild West Coast of New Caledonia, cowboys really do roam the land! They are known as "broussards", or bushmen, and the best place to meet them is at an agricultural fair. Experience broussard culture, from their unique accents and hats to a real-life rodeo!

Visit Fort Teremba and step back in time to the colonial past of New Caledonia. Built in Moindou in 1871, this historic monument bore witness to years of penal servitude and subsequent revolt of the Kanak people. The tour of this restored site, complete with guillotine, prison and museum, is loaded with emotion. Especially during the famous light and sound show!

In a convenient location overlooking Îlot Canard, Anse Vata Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a moment of pure relaxation on the beach. Between sessions, you can cool off in the 82.4℉ lagoon water or enjoy a drink in one of the nearby bars or hotels. It's a hard life in the tropics!

The Nouméa lagoon is a veritable paradise for boardsports. Whether your prefer kitesurfing, paddleboarding or windsurfing, just choose your board and dive into the turquoise water. Kitesurfers flock to Le Méridien Beach in Nouméa, windsurfers to the Côte Blanche and paddleboarders to Anse Vata Beach. Sun, sea and surf all year round!