New Caledonia Quick Guide

If you are planning a trip to the South Pacific, then you definitely need to consider a New Caledonia Travel Guide. New Caledonia (pronounced 'nings-keen' or 'kah-leen-neh'.) is an island cluster of several small islands located in the southern Pacific Ocean off the coast of Canada. The official languages are French and English, though the majority of the residents speak English.

New Caledonia was first inhabited by French fur traders in the late eighteenth century. They established many settlements here, and French is still the primary language. New Caledonia, like most other isles, was largely untouched by European explorers during the nineteenth century. Today, many of these old French villages are dotted with beautiful cottages and beautiful churches built of moss and stone, with their white steeples resting on moss covered rocks. One of the most popular sites is Soufriere, which has a white painted steep cliffside and a beautiful view of the town below.

One of the things that you won't find in most of the other isles on the New Caledonia Travel Guide is information about the culture of New Caledonia. Unlike most of the other countries in the region, the people of this island don't practice most of the modern religions. However, they have a strong connection with their French heritage in general, so there are services and goods in French written in shops, restaurants, bistros and even on street signs. The best way to experience this culture is to rent a French expat apartment or villa.

There are two main areas of interest in New Caledonia: the town of Port Louis and the town of Taal Volcano. Port Louis is the largest city of New Caledonia and is located in the center of the island. It is also the biggest harbor in the region, housing cruise ships, marinas, and much more. The town's restaurants, bistros, and shops are spread throughout the old part of town, but if you head north out of town, you will find the perfect shopping and entertainment center the Kanak culture center.

If you love to walk, New Caledonia is the place for you! There are several walking paths throughout the island and each one is unique in its own way. Some of the more popular walking routes include: Daitapu, Taal Volcano, and the La Tania Loop. New Caledonia travel guides have described these routes as romantic strolls along the beautiful beaches of the south pacific. The volcano is also worth visiting, as it is accessible by road only and is well-protected.

Beaches and sandy beaches are very popular in New Caledonia, and there are many different beachfront hotels in various price ranges. Beaches include Grand Bay, Le Morne & Labe, and La Meuse. These are some of the most popular tourist destinations on the main island of New Caledonia:

The island of New Caledonia also has two important rivers that provide water for drinking and farming. They are the Caledonia River and the Labe River. A short drive from the beaches is the historic and beautiful Port Louis Hotel, which is a world heritage site and a very popular tourist destination. This is a small castle town with a lot of cultural history. The other most popular tourist destination is the old town of Yerba Mate, which has an impressive Medieval streets.

Travelers can start their journey from the island's capital, Saint Pierre, and drive east to reach Yerba Mate. From here, visitors can take a short drive to the historic city of Port Louis, and a short drive to the French region of Bordeaux. For more information about the region, you can consult a New Caledonia travel guide. You will find accommodations at every possible point along your route, and you can even arrange airport transfers between your hotel and the airport!

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to New Caledonia are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

Best Time to Visit New Caledonia for Good Weather: May to October. Best Time for Sightseeing: May, June, September and October. Best Time for Honeymoons: May, June, September and October. Best Time for Diving & Snorkeling: June to October.

Do I need a Visa?

New Caledonia is a dependent territory of France. If your passport describes you as a British Citizen you do not need a visa to enter New Caledonia. Other British passport holders should check the current entry requirements with the French Foreign Ministry.

See which forms you may need for entry into New Caledonia.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of New Caledonia is the Cfp Franc (XPF). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in New Caledonia you can grab amazing Cfp Franc deals via Wise.com (GBP to XPF).

What about the wildlife?

Endemic mammals include the Ornate Flying Fox (Endemia), the New Caledonian Flying Fox (Endemia), the New Caledonian Blossom Bat (ARKive WM) (Endemia), the New Caledonian Wattled Bat (Endemia) (iNaturalist), the Loyalty Bentwing Bat (Endemia), and the New Caledonian Long-eared Bat (Endemia).

What is the traditional food?

French food? Bougna is a traditional feast dish of the Kanak people of New Caledonia.

What Languages are spoken?

French is the official language in common use in New Caledonia, with a number of colourful local expressions you'll come across during your stay! The Kanak languages ​​are also widely spoken throughout the country. You can learn some basic French before you travel to New Caledonia and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in New Caledonia is the Cfp Franc (Tipping nor bartering are not part of the local culture, although you can round up your bill in the less traditional and more European restaurants where you have experienced great service.).

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Useful Numbers

  • Police: 112
  • Ambulance: 112
  • Fire: 112
  • UK Embassy:

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is 10 hours

Travel Apps

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Learn French

Learn some French before your trip to New Caledonia


New Caledonia Guidebook

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