New Caledonia sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

New Caledonia is a fabulous island country that is an overseas French territory in the Pacific. James Cook was the discoverer of the islands – his crew reached the coast of New Caledonia in 1774. A thorough examination of the islands showed that New Caledonia had been inhabited for more than 3,500 years at that time. At the beginning of the 20th century, archaeologists found fragments of ancient ceramics and other artifacts of ancient people that date back to the 13th century BC.

Things to do in New Caledonia - active leisure

New Caledonia is a perfect destination for active recreation. The islands feature wooden massifs and deserted areas, hills and lakes, caves and …
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Europeans started exploring the territory of the islands actively after the 40s of the 19th century. The exotic islands attracted merchants by their sandalwood groves. The islands officially became a part of France in 1853. After that, France built several prisons for convicts accused of grievous crimes. Fertile lands of the islands were suitable for coconut and coffee plantations. Deposits of some metals were also discovered in New Caledonia. Despite the fact that the revolutionary movement emerged on the islands more than 30 years ago, New Caledonia still remains a French territory.

The colonial city of Noumea is the main landmark of the country. Actually, this is the only real city on the islands. It is very interesting to explore Noumea on foot because there are many old squares, picturesque streets, and interesting buildings of the colonial period. In the capital, tourists can relax at Anse Vata Beach or visit the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre. Besides sightseeing and visiting local museums, tourists in Noumea can explore the charming local botanic garden, zoo, and aquarium. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

What you need to know about New Caledonia prior to visit - advices

1. Don’t forget about time. When using a car or traveling without a guide it is important to remember that there is no sunset in New Caledonia. The …
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Do you want to relax in more tranquil and less crowded places? If yes, simply head to the Isle of Pines that is famous for its ruins of penal colonies and wild beaches. The water is crystal clear in this region, so the area is perfectly suitable for snorkeling and trouble-free relaxation.

There are many unique natural landmarks not far from the capital, and the mysterious Koumac Caves are one of them. These caves are famous not only for their beautiful stalactites and stalagmites but also historic artifacts discovered in that area. Here, archaeologists found a pantheon founded by the Kanak tribes. In the past, caves in this part of the island were an important gathering place and a cult area. There are also several beautiful waterfalls and cliffs close to the caves.

What to see and what to visit in New Caledonia with children

New Caledonia is a calm place, and this is very important for vacationers with children. There are no mass strikes, demonstrations, and riots with …
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Have you ever dreamt of walking in an incredibly beautiful forest? If yes, then simply head to Yengen. There are marvelously beautiful forests near this small settlement. Forests are wondrously mixed with rocky formations, so visitors can see not only giant old trees but also rocks and waterfalls. When you finish admiring the natural beauty of the islands, it is high time to visit Centre Culturel Goa Ma Bwarhat that regularly hosts interesting folk performances.

If you like excursions, then a visit to the settlement of La Foa is the right choice. Incredibly beautiful pine woods and impenetrable reed stand surround the town. In La Foa, tourists can see interesting buildings that date back to different epochs. The Margaret Bridge (La Passerelle Marguerite) remains the main symbol of the town – the project of this bridge was developed by a pupil of Gustave Eiffel. There is also an interesting historical market in the town. Continue exploring the area and visit Fort Teremba that is located not far from Moindou. In the past, this was a prison and a fort that protected the coast.

Shopping in New Caledonia - best shopping places, what to buy?

For tourists from Europe, New Caledonia is a place somewhere at the edge of the world, so many of them are surprised and disappointed when they arrive …
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The north-west part of the island is an ideal destination for everyone who wants to spend more time away from other people. There are no settlements, so large savannahs and rocks occupy the majority of this region. There are several hiking trails in the area. When walking on one of them, tourists can see rare tropical plants, admire wild coconut groves, and see turquoise-colored water in untouched lagoons. Here, among mountains and rocks, vacationers will find La Crouen thermal hot springs that are famous for their miraculous healing properties.

Certain countries have a well-established air connection with New Caledonia. For example, Air Austral has regular flights to the islands. It is also easy to reach New Caledonia from Australia and New Zealand. Fiji and Vanuatu also have regular airplane flights to the islands. Finally, Aircalin has a number of flights to New Caledonia from Japan and South Korea. Tourists can move between the islands of the archipelago in motorboats.

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New Caledonia sightseeing. Travel guide - attractions, sights, nature and touristic places

Lagoons of New Caledonia

Sightseeing in popular cities of New Caledonia