Top experiences

In the heart of the Blue River Provincial Park, the Drowned Forest is famous for the hundreds of bleached gum oak trunks that have emerged from the lake since the creation of a huge dam. It is accessible during the day, but nothing compares to kayaking through this ghostly setting in the moonlight!

Immortalised by the famous photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand, this striking feature has been shared around the world. The Heart of Voh was formed naturally by the surrounding mangrove. Best seen from the air, a microlight is the ultimate way to take in this memorable sight!

In the outskirts of Nouméa stands the majestic Tjibaou Cultural Centre. A beacon of Kanak culture, designed by the celebrated architect Renzo Piano, this imposing building is a must-visit destination to understand and immerse yourself in the Melanesian world. The centre combines national history, traditional sites and exhibitions of contemporary artists.

It's impossible to miss the imposing black limestone rock that looms out of the waters of Hienghène Bay. Known as "La Poule" because of its striking resemblance to a hen, it has even influenced the legends of the local tribes, who made it the ancestral guardian of the region and one of the symbols of their country. To get a closer look and navigate around the surrounding Lindéralique rocks, a kayak is the way to go!

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.

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!

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!

High above Nouméa, the Parc Zoologique et Forestier is a wildlife park, a botanical garden and a nature reserve rolled into one. From cagous and goliath imperial pigeons to geckos and flying foxes, it offers an interesting overview of the country's endemic species. Set in a green landscape with many picnic areas, this is a must-see for both little ones and grown-ups!

Concealed at the foot of the cliffs on the west coast of Lifou, Kiki Beach is a real hidden gem. After a half-hour walk through the forest, you will find yourself alone on a beautiful strip of white sand looking out over dazzling turquoise blue water.

The Domaine de Deva is a rambler's paradise. On foot, by bike or on horseback, you can stroll from the beach to the largest dry forest in the territory, passing through a mangrove along the way. Its golden hills offer a breathtaking panorama of the lagoon, the coral reef and the Shark Fault!

The 3-Bay Trail is one of the most beautiful walks on the West Coast and a must-do for anyone staying in Bourail! Start at La Roche Percée where the famous "Bonhomme", a rock shaped like a man, overlooks the beach. From there you can continue round Turtle Bay, shaded by giant New Caledonia pines, until you reach the secluded hideaway known as Lovers’ Bay...