New Caledonia Travel Forum

Hi there, would really appreciate some suggestions from anyone who has been to New Caledonia with regards to my planning for a trip in August next year. I am planning to visit the Loyalty Island (Mare, Lifou and Ouvea), Isle of Pines and a drive around the island - how long do you think I should allow for this trip? Also are the three loyalty island quite similar or are they worth a island hop to each of them?

Hi,

I have only been to Lifou and Isle of Pines so I cant help too much with info about Mare or Ouvea. My guess is that they would be very similar, but still all worth a look. I only spent a day on Lifou (coming on Santal Bay near Easo)but if you met with some great locals who could show you the sites then I would stay another day or 2. The Lourdes church on the top of the hill is beautiful. I have heard that Ouvea has beautiful beaches with fine white sand.

As for Isle of Pines, I simply think it is the most beautiful place in the world. I never wanted to leave. The locals only spoke French so learn the basics to help yourself out. An enterprising man charged me $14NZ to take me around the island in his van. He stopped off at different landmarks and told me (in French) about all of them. All the children came up to me to practice their English. Everyone was really friendly.
Bear in mind that there might be cruise ships around as there are 3 cruises planned to those islands in Aug 07. Having a tiny island crammed with 1500 people might not be so appealing to you so you might want to check out the timetables on the P&O website.

I am very jealous! Have a fantastic trip!

Hello,

I totally agree with KiwiJes about Isle of Pines. We spent 2 weeks in New Caledonia and Isle of Pines was our first stop. We really didn't know what to expect from the island, but once we stepped down on it...it was like no other place we've seen before. Truly stunning.

I'm not sure how similar the three loyalty islands are, but I did hear from the locals that Ouvea was quite remarkable.

If you're going in August, I believe it might during their cooler season, so that's something to keep in mind. During our 2 week stay we were based in Noumea with friends, but took the drive North to Hienghene and then also visited the southern tip of the island.

2 weeks might be adequate for you to see all these areas.

Brush up on your French....as the previous post stated, the locals speak mostly French.

Enjoy!

G_G