New Caledonia Adventure

Bonjour! Welcome to the laidback shores of Noumea, New Caledonia. There are no activities planned for today except for your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you can explore New Caledonia’s main city – maybe visit the Tjibaou Cultural Centre, Museum of World War II or St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. The market at Port Moselle is a great place to go people-watching, as well as see all the tropical produce, seafood and souvenirs on offer.

After breakfast, join your small group on a drive into the secluded Blue River National Park. This spectacular slice of nature in New Caledonia’s centre is a sanctuary of local flora, wildlife and biodiversity. Deep red earth contrasts with striking green mountainscapes and lakes in this provincial park, which is approximately 9000 hectares of untouched national land. Head deep in the park on foot and in a 4WD, stopping by the Guepyville and Drowned Forest lookouts across the wooden Perignon Bridge and along the Cagou Birds Trail, hopefully spotting iconic Caledonian birdlife. Find a scenic spot by the riverside and enjoy an included French-style picnic provided by your guides. Continue into the rainforest through the Giant Kaori trees dotted through the canopies, looking out for the cagou birds high above and then maybe stop for a refreshing swim. Later, return to Noumea for a free evening. (B/L)

Today, leave Noumea behind and drive to Boulouparis. When you arrive, hop on a boat with your group for about 30 minutes to the natural marine reserve of Tenia Islet. From here, you can choose to go on a self-guided snorkelling adventure with the colourful fish or, alternatively, head out on an island walk. When you’ve had your fill of activities, sit down for a picnic lunch with your leader before heading back to Boulouparis. Drive to Bourail, where you’ll spend the night, stopping at Fort Teremba on the way – this old prison once housed convicts in the 1880s. Dinner is included tonight at the lodge. (B/L/D)

This morning after breakfast, you’ll head out to see some of the highlights of the seaside, including Turtle Bay and Nera Beach. Go on a few short walks and lap up the gorgeous ocean scenery. Head to the picturesque Poe Beach – a UNESCO World Heritage site – for lunch with a view. The beach is only 2 km away from the barrier reef, so this is a gorgeous spot for a swim, too! After, you’ll visit the Parc des Grandes Fougeres, or Giant Fern Park, for a guided walk deep in the lush rainforests. Your local guide will take you through parts of this World Heritage-listed site, featuring around 13,000 species of fern, 70% of which are endemic. Later this afternoon, head to a remote Kanak Village for a memorable night with local villagers. Deep in the foothills of New Caledonia’s mountain range, these villages are a haven for nature lovers. You’ll be welcomed into tribal culture, learning about the customs and traditions of the local people. Tonight, you’ll stay in simple dormitory-style accommodation in a fare (village house) and be treated to the traditional dish bougna for dinner. (B/L/D)

This morning, you’ll have breakfast with the group and then head out on a walk to a local waterfall. When you return to the village, take some time to learn about daily life here – Kanak communities across New Caledonia comprise around 44% of the island population and share significant connections to spirituality and the land. You’ll sit down with your hosts for a homemade lunch of local, organic food, which is a great chance to swap stories. Later, say goodbye to your hosts and return to Boulouparis, then on to Noumea for your final night. (B/L)

With no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave the group after breakfast this morning. That doesn't mean your adventure has to come to an end! If you would like to spend more time in Noumea, just speak to your booking agent to organise additional accommodation. (B)