Day 1: Arrive in Noumea
Welcome to Noumea, a culturally diverse cosmopolitan capital city that offers a range of different attractions for everyone to enjoy. Settle into your hotel before heading out to explore Port Moselle Bay and the local municipal markets. From fresh fruits and delicious seafood to local crafts and perfect souvenirs, all the colours and flavours of New Caledonia await you here. Continue your discovery of the classic colonial architecture where you will find sophisticated French boutiques mixed with the unique Kanak culture. This evening walk along the beautiful promenade in Anse Vata Bay and find a place to sit back, enjoy an aperitif and soak in the live music.
Day 2: The Great South
Today you will see a completely contrasting side to the country as you drive towards the Great South, symbolic for the country’s three main colours: red, blue and green. On the way you will cross the Yate Lake, the biggest reservoir of freshwater and witness the drowned forest before continuing onto the Blue River Park. Allow yourself to be absorbed by the extraordinary beauty where the unique red coloured soil is contrasted against the dazzling blue water and the many shades of green which make up the incredible forestry surrounding the area. The park is full of adventures, choose to embark on a mountain bike ride, take an easy hike through the rain forest, go for a swim in one of the waterfalls or go in search of the famous cagou bird.
Day 3: Isle of Pines
An early start today as you make your way to the majestic Isle of Pines. Let the crystal clear, pristine turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches and spectacular pine trees welcome you to this complete island paradise. Spend the day soaking in the incredible vistas, abundant natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes as you relax on one of the many unspoiled beaches. Head out exploring starting with the popular Kuto Bay and the nearby Kanumera Bay, connected by a thin strip of land making it both an iconic sight and a popular snorkelling spot.
Day 4: Upi Bay
Get ready to spend another day in paradise. Begin the morning at the spectacular Upi Bay, known for the huge rocks which appear to be simply balancing on the water’s surface like gigantic floating buoys. Hop on a traditional outrigger sailing boat to discover the stunning lagoon and the bays that make up the Isle of Pines. End your cruise at Oro Bay, a natural aquarium which offers a majestic setting of rare magnificence. Swim in a secluded pool surrounded by tall pine trees with thousands of multi-coloured fish and admire the fragile corals that create this legendary place.
Day 5: Local history and culture
With minimal French influence on this island, it is the perfect place to learn more about the local culture. Start with a visit to the small town of Voa, admire the pretty Mission Church and pay respect to the Statue de St Maurice commemorating the arrival of the first missionaries. Continue with a visit to the quirky Oumagne Grotto, better known as the Cave of Queen Hortense, as you walk through the limestone pipe maze to discover the luxurious and tropical flora of this mysterious place. Learn about the legend of Kanedjo and the importance of this place to the people of New Caledonia. Afterwards you will return to Noumea for a relaxing afternoon lazing by the pool, or choose to discover even more about the ancestral culture of New Caledonia at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre or Kanak Art of the Museum of New Caledonia. Make sure to indulge in a local fine dining meal to remember your beautiful time on this island.
Day 6: Depart from Noumea
Your adventure comes to an end this morning as you enjoy your final gourmet breakfast in this fantastic place. Transfer to the airport and catch your flight back home.
