Walk somewhere NEW
Hiking is the best way to discover the secret treasures of the New Caledonian countryside. To make this as easy and enjoyable as possible, the Southern Province has marked out 12 walks to provide comfortable and safe access. Clear signage has also been placed on these tracks (road signs, main information, didactic, pictogramme, maps...).
Walking Tours are available, lasting from just a few hours to several days, and they will take you through some of the most beautiful places on earth.
The Blue River Provincial Park is a nature reserve covering 90 sq km and contains hundreds of rainforest species including the giant ancient kaori, sandalwood and araucaria trees. It is also home to several hundred cagou birds thanks to a breeding program introduced when the park was declared in 1980. The park is a favourite destination for nature lovers who come for its waterfalls, bushwalks, swimming holes, river kayaking and rainforests. A nature house opened in 2003 acts as an education and visitor centre.
Madeleine Falls is surrounded by an unusual landscape of shrublands, waterholes and ancient flora, and is also home to New Caledonia’s cork wood tree, a rare conifer that grows in water. The falls are 75km east of Noumea and are reached via an excellent series of walking tracks through the shrubland.
Dumbéa sits in a picturesque valley just 15 minutes from Noumea and is framed by mountains and rainforest slopes. Parks around the Dumbea River and dam offer a chance to bushwalk, while canoe and kayak operators escort groups along the rivers clear waters.
Mont Koghi rises 1061 metres above Dumbea and offers superb views over Noumea and the New Caledonia lagoon. Its peak and ridges are often draped in rainforests, offering a respite from the tropical warmth and an opportunity to explore forest trails, waterfalls and swimming holes. The Auberge de Mont Koghi offers a chance to stay in simple cabins in the rainforest, including a spectacular treehouse 15 metres up a giant houp tree.
Mont Dore was originally known as Mont d’Or, and this 772 metre peak dominates the ranges around Noumea. The peak is an energetic climb from the village of Plume and offers panoramic views of the city, surrounds and lagoon. The mountain also offers La Fontaine de Plume, a natural source of spring water.
Reserve de la Montagne des Sources is a high, mountainous reserve densely forested with rainforest trees. This reserve protects the lush slopes that yield Noumea’s water supply and although accessible to walkers, the park is of very demanding terrain.
Canyoning and tree walking
Thrills are guaranteed when you find yourself in the hollow of a high waterfall or a cave with black limestone walls and discover, from the ground to the treetops, the tropical forests of New Caledonia in the regions of Mount-Koghi (Dumbéa), Yaté, Farino, Canala, Houaïlou and Hienghéne with certified instructors. Trips are offered for all levels, from beginners to the most athletic and experienced.
On Mount Koghi you are guaranteed a pleasant and relaxing time as you go from tree to tree on a unique and safe circuit incorporating monkey bridges, footbridges, flying fox and swings. (cf. Address book at Canyoning and climbing,Tree-walking)
