Getting around
Seaside road in New CaledoniaSeaside road in New Caledonia
The promenade at Anse-Vata NouméaGetting around
New CaledoniaSeaside road in New CaledoniaGetting to The Islands
By plane
Flying is undoubtedly the quickest way to reach the islands. In Nouméa, Magenta aerodrome hosts the local domestic airline, Air Calédonie, which operates multiple daily flights to the Isle of Pines or the main Loyalty Islands (Maré, Lifou, Ouvéa).
Air Calédonie domestic flight at Magenta Airport, Nouméa
Crossing aboard the Betico 2By boat
For sea enthusiasts or budget-conscious travellers, consider taking the Betico 2, a high-speed vessel, to Île des Pins, Maré, or Lifou. Visit www.betico.nc for schedules and fares.
Getting around the region
Renting a car is an excellent way to explore New Caledonia. The road network is generally in great condition, and unless you plan to traverse steep tracks, a 4×4 isn’t necessary.
Exploring the enchanting wonders of this Pacific paradise is seamlessly facilitated by an array of touristic transportation options. Public transport, including buses and taxis, offers convenient mobility, providing visitors with accessibility to key destinations. For a more personalised and flexible experience, private shuttle services and car hires stand out as efficient choices. The private service providers, known for their reliability and customer-centric approach, make navigating the archipelago easy. Organising bespoke tours with these services is remarkably simple, allowing travellers to tailor their itineraries and embark on a journey of discovery with utmost convenience and comfort.
For an exotic and enchanting way to reach New Caledonia’s nearby islets, consider taxi-boats. These operate in Nouméa and the bush, providing access to paradise islets. It’s a must for any stay in this beautiful archipelago. Several private operators are available in locations such as Nouméa, Bourail, Boulouparis, La Foa, Poindimié, Poum, the Isle of Pines, and more.
New Caledonia boasts two primary bus networks for exploring the archipelago affordably: the urban network of Greater Nouméa, Tanéo, and the intercity coach network, RAI.
Additionally, numerous private shuttles offer high-quality service.
From La Tontouta international airport to Nouméa
Parking at Nouméa - La Tontouta international airportIf you’re arranging your stay in New Caledonia and not renting a vehicle upon arrival, consider booking a shuttle to your accommodation in Nouméa. Many private companies offer this service at competitive rates. Some well-known options include Les Mouettes, Arc en Ciel, Go Shuttle, and Allo Transports.
Papaye
100% Electric Car Hire in Nouméa & New CaledoniaIn Nouméa and directly from La Tontouta International Airport, Papaye offers an easy and eco-friendly solution for car hire in New Caledonia. Through the Papaye mobile app, you can rent an electric car in Nouméa 24/7. Book by the minute, by the hour, or for the whole day, unlock the vehicle from your smartphone, and return it to one of the designated drop-off zones.
This electric car rental service in New Caledonia is a practical, flexible and sustainable way to travel around the archipelago, with insurance and charging included.
Download the Papaye app on the App Store or Google Play.
Getting around Nouméa
Scooter in NouméaOn foot, by bike or by cab
In Nouméa, you can explore much of the city on foot or hop on the tchou tchou train that navigates the most tourist-friendly areas. For longer distances, you can hire a taxi (Tel +687 28 35 12) or rent a two-wheeler or bicycle.
By bus
Nouméa and Greater Nouméa have an extensive bus network, Tanéo. This network offers numerous routes to Nouméa, Dumbéa, Païta, and Mont-Dore.
- How much does a ticket cost?
Individual tickets for Tanéo lines, purchased at a kiosk, cost 500 XPF. If you plan to make multiple trips, consider purchasing a Pass Journée at a ticket machine (cost 1,500 XPF) for convenience and cost savings.
- Where to purchase tickets?
- Taneo Commercial Agency – Maison du Néobus, Place de la Moselle
- Taneo Commercial Agency – Pôle d’échange de Desmazures
- Which tourist routes are on the Tanéo network?
Access to Anse-Vata, Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay), Ouen Toro
The line 3 provides access to the Nouville peninsula as far as Anse-Vata and Ouen Toro.All lines can be viewed on the network map. You can also plan your trips by specifying your departure and arrival locations.
Download the map of New Caledonia
Take along a copy of the map of New Caledonia, with travel tips and road safety information to help you plan your trip.
