New Caledonia: where is it and what is interesting there?

History of the island

New Caledonia is a remote archipelago discovered in 1774 by English navigator James Cook. He named it after his homeland, Scotland, which was known as Caledonia at the time.

In the 1840s, European sandalwood traders began to actively arrive on the island – they were immigrants from France and England.

But, of course, it wasn't just sandalwood — in 1853, French colonists declared New Caledonia their territory, established coffee and coconut plantations there, and began mining minerals.

Nature

Let's start with the fact that the flora here is truly amazing: palm trees and ferns, Norfolk pines and orchids tower above and adorn every street. The water in the lagoons is clear and turquoise, and the sand is perfectly fine and clean. Nature itself encourages active recreation here. Forests, semi-deserts, hills and lakes, caves and lagoons, rivers... Warm weather, no mosquitoes or snakes — isn't this a paradise for a vacation?

Places of interest

Nouméa

The main attraction of New Caledonia is the colonial city of Nouméa, the only full-fledged city on the islands. It is interesting to walk around here, exploring the squares, streets, and historic buildings. There is also an impressive botanical garden and zoo. And if you want to get away from people, head to the Nouville area, where there are many wild beaches and historical ruins.

Fatanau Caves

The Fatanaue Caves are located in the vicinity of the capital. Not only natural attractions but also historical ones have been discovered here. For example, a pantheon, which indicates that cult and public rituals were performed in the caves. Near Fatanaue, you can see magnificent waterfalls and cliffs.

Yengen District

The Yengen area is popular for its rich forests. In addition, you can see huge rocks and picturesque waterfalls scattered throughout the forests.

La Foà

If you enjoy sightseeing, then La Foa is the place for you. It has a large number of historical sites from different periods: the Pazareel de Marguerite bridge, which is the main symbol, the ancient Teremba fort, and the famous ancient market of New Caledonia.

For those who are tired of noisy cities, the northwestern part of the island is ideal, as there are no settlements there—most of the area is covered by savannahs. There are also many hiking trails that will reveal the tropical paradise of the local nature. It is in this part, among the mountains and rocks, that the Kruen thermal springs are located, which have special healing properties.

In the Dumba River Valley Nature Reserve, you can go kayaking, which attracts lovers of active recreation. And near the town of Buraya, there are many ranches where you can book a horseback ride.

Beaches

The capital has the beautiful Anse Vata beach and the Tjibaou Cultural Centre. Sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches near the town of Boura, making this area a protected site.

The west coast of New Caledonia's largest island, Grande Terre, is separated from the ocean by coral reefs. Here, the water is turquoise and transparent along the shore and dark blue in the ocean beyond the reefs. The lagoons here are the best places for diving and snorkeling.

Cubini is for divers. The water there is crystal clear, there are almost no currents, and there are many beaches on the coast.

South of the capital, there is a small white sand beach called Anse Vata. It is well known among windsurfers and kite surfers. When you are in Nouméa, take a trip into nature along the "Grand Walk No. 1" route. Here you will encounter picturesque landscapes — lakes, hills, and valleys. Hiking trails in New Caledonia are quite popular, especially in the Grand Terre area, so there are many of them here. It is on such walks that you can meet local Melanesians. They are very hospitable and friendly.

Transport

The smartest choice is to rent a car to explore the island without having to rely on public transport. If you are in Grand Terre, be sure to buy local fruit from roadside shops—it is especially sweet here. There are also amazing caves here, which are convenient to visit by car. They can be found on the way from Nouméa to the town of Koumak.

If you want to experience the tropical atmosphere of the capital, take a local minibus, but for getting around the island, a taxi or rental car is more suitable. It should be noted that on small islands, renting a car is a must, because taxis and other forms of transport are rare here. Another tip is to book a car in advance, as it is almost impossible to find one on the day.

The most expensive luxury resort in New Caledonia is Île des Pins. There are no inconveniences or drawbacks here — it's pure paradise.

The best walks are in St. Joseph Bay, and the best diving is in Gagie Lagoon. By the way, you can only dive here on your own if you have a PADI certificate, so keep that in mind.

How to get there?

Of course, New Caledonia is very far from Ukraine, so if you decide to go there, be aware that the journey will take at least 30 hours. However, New Caledonia has regular connections with many countries. For example, Air Austral flies regularly from France to the island, which is one of the easiest ways to get to New Caledonia. You can travel between the archipelagos comfortably by boat or ship, which is very convenient and fast.

What factors should be considered when traveling to New Caledonia?

• The sun sets quickly in New Caledonia, always at the same time—6 p.m., and the morning begins at 6 a.m.
• New Caledonia is located in the tropics, which means the sun is relentless here. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., it is best not to be outside at all, or if you do leave the house, be sure to take a hat and sunglasses with you. And don't forget to drink water!
• Don't swim if you don't know the area. Many beaches are ocean coasts, which means deep waters and strong currents. Therefore, it is better to find out where it is safer to swim and at what time.
• In New Caledonia, bargaining is not customary, so save your talent for other resorts. Here, it may be considered disrespectful or offensive, which could lead to serious conflict.
• Surprisingly, but true — you can only withdraw $350 per week from local ATMs.
• In the capital, you can pay for your expenses with a card, but outside the capital, you will have to have cash ready.

• Prices here are European. While prices in Oceania are quite reasonable, those in New Caledonia seem quite high. For example, a cup of cappuccino costs $5.50.
• Tipping is not customary in New Caledonia. If you are grateful for the service, it is better to express it in words.