Plan your trip to New Caledonia
Road trip to Hienghène on the east coastRoad trip to Hienghène on the east coastRoad trip to Hienghène on the east coastInformation for new visitors
What should I know before visiting?
Customs and traditions
It is common to do the ‘Customary Gesture’ (La coutume) when being welcomed in a tribe. This consists in saying a few words and offering a small gift to your host. Customs and traditions hold significant importance in New Caledonia, especially within the Kanak culture. Similar to other parts of the world, daily life in tribal communities follows a set of social rules.
Infrastructure (roads, hospitals etc.)
New Caledonia is a French territory that offers all the guarantees of a safe and developed tourist destination. Nouméa benefits from world-class infrastructure and hospital facilities, and roads are in good condition.
Accessibility
While Noumea is relatively accessible for wheelchair users, travelling around the rest of New Caledonia might require extra assistance.
Travelling with children
New Caledonia is a family-friendly and safe destination. Feel free to bring your family along, as there’s plenty for children to discover and enjoy.
Types of accommodation
New Caledonia offers high-quality hotels, lodges, and gîtes that meet international standards, catering to travellers seeking a comfortable stay. For those looking for unique experiences surrounded by nature, the options range from bush homestays to tribal stays and eco-friendly hotels or guesthouses.
Tribal welcome, LifouCulinary specialties
The cuisine of New Caledonia reflects its diverse population, featuring elements from Melanesian, French, Polynesian, and Asian culinary traditions.. Specialities include the bougna, a traditional Kanak dish made from tubers (yams, taro, cassava, sweet potatoes and poingo bananas) accompanied by fish, marinated prawns or chicken in coconut milk. It is left to simmer for 2 to 3 hours in banana leaves before being placed on hot stones in a Kanak oven dug into the ground. Deer, local tuna and less well-known dishes like bulime snails from the Isle of Pines are some other specialties you can sample during your stay! Grilled fish, prawns, lobster, crab or wild boar are also delightful. Don’t forget to try the delicious French desserts and exotic fresh fruit salads.
Opening times
Shops in New Caledonia generally open between 9 or 10 am and close at 5 or 6 pm, while supermarkets open from 8 am to 7 pm. Lunch is typically served between 11.30 am and 1 pm, with dinner between 7 and 9 pm. Some stores offer extended hours, but keep in mind that weekends see many locals heading to the countryside or coastal areas, leaving the city centre quieter.
Drone
If you plan to travel with a drone, inform your airline in advance and notify the local authorities in New Caledonia. Permission is not required upon arrival for leisure drone use, as long as you adhere to aviation safety rules and respect privacy. However, certain areas, including the islands, may have restrictions. More information can be obtained from the tourist office or your accommodation upon arrival.
Dangerous animals
New Caledonia’s pristine islands are home to diverse wildlife. Protect yourself from mosquitoes to prevent dengue fever transmission. Additionally, when at sea, follow safety rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Getting to New Caledonia
Passports/visas
The same rules apply to tourists arriving by plane, boat or cruise ship. Each passenger must present a valid passport and a visa if their nationality requires it.
Customs and biosecurity
New Caledonia, like other Pacific islands, prohibits the import of fresh produce and plants to safeguard the island’s agricultural and natural balance. Prohibited items include cheeses, small-goods, plant products, seeds, plants, and flowers. Entry quotas exist for tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and perfume. It is also forbidden to transport protected New Caledonian flora or fauna in your luggage, such as giant clam shells and turtle shells.
Exchange
Pacific francs are not available in New Zealand, however you can withdraw cash upon arrival at the airport or exchange currency at numerous banks with foreign exchange facilities. These facilities are open from Monday to Friday, typically from 7.30 am to 3.45 pm. Valid identification is required, and commission fees vary by company.
Airport access
New Caledonia features one international airport, La Tontouta, and several domestic airports in Noumea, Grande Terre, and the islands. La Tontouta Airport meets international standards, offering services such as car rental, duty-free shops, dining, shuttles, currency exchange, Wi-Fi, and lounges. Various transportation options are available to access or depart from the airports, including shuttles, taxis, private drivers, car rentals, and buses. Noumea-Magenta Airport operates domestic flights to destinations on Grande Terre, the Isle of Pines, and the Loyalty Islands.
Nouméa - Magenta aerodrome
Couple by the sea in New CaledoniaInternet and Wi-Fi
New Caledonia enjoys good 3G/4G coverage, even at sea. To ensure internet access throughout your trip, consider obtaining a SIM card or Pocket Wifi upon arrival. Most hotels, bars, and restaurants offer reliable Wi-Fi connections. For cost-effective communication, opt for making phone calls via the internet.
Getting around New Caledonia
Air travel is the fastest way to reach the islands or the northern part of Grande Terre. Frequent flights facilitate day trips, with round-trip fares costing approximately $200. Air Calédonie operates daily flights from Magenta Airport to destinations including Koné, Touho, the Isle of Pines, and the Loyalty Islands. In addition, Air Loyauté offers flights from Nouméa and Koumac on Grande Terre to Tiga on the Loyalty Islands.
Preparing a traditional Kanak bougna in a tribeVisit New Caledonia and book activities
The best way to visit New Caledonia? Immerse yourself in authentic encounters, enjoy the many outdoor activities, get into the relaxed pace of the islands and make sure you book in advance . Among the experiences not to be missed during your stay:
- Get to know the locals
- Partake in outdoor activities (water sports, board sports, fishing, hiking…)
- Share a tribal meal or a Broussard barbecue
- Participate in local festivals
- Connect with nature
- Embrace the islands’ motto “Carpe Diem”
