New Caledonia – The best hiking trails
New Caledonia boasts an array of meticulously developed trails for hikers. Whether you’re exploring routes in natural parks, tackling demanding treks, or following provincial paths, each experience brings you closer to the elements that define New Caledonia’s reputation. Did you know that the South Province offers over 60 marked hikes and boasts two GR® trails? Many areas benefit from ambitious preservation policies, so it’s crucial to be aware of and respect the regulations of the trails you traverse.
GR® NC1 – Yaté – Dumbéa
Divided into seven stages, the Grand Sentier de Randonnée du Sud leads you from the historic village of Prony to the peaks of the Central Range in Dumbéa. Passing through Yaté, Mont-Dore, and Dumbéa communes, the GR® Sud takes you to iconic sites like the Blue River Provincial Park, the Natural Park of Dumbéa, the Chutes de la Madeleine reserve, and Prony village. These seven stages offer a glimpse into the incredible biodiversity of the Great South, with a blend of mining history, vast southern landscapes, red earth deserts, and lush rainforests.
Mont-Dore trail – by the corniche
To combine physical effort with majestic sea and mountain scenery, take the Mont-Dore trail! This 7.3 km hike to an 800-metre summit offers breathtaking views of Nouméa, the lagoon, and the Great South. Ascend via the spectacular ridge to the southeast of the massif. Don’t forget sun cream and plenty of water for protection against the strong sun.
Cap N’Dua trail – Yaté
Explore the 830-hectare Cap N’Dua natural reserve, linking Anse Majic to the lighthouse regulating navigation in the Havannah Channel. This 4.5 km hike offers panoramic views of the Grand Lagon Sud and, on clear days, the Isle of Pines. The area is also a prime spot for whale watching from July to September.
Blue River Park Dipodium trail – Yaté
This 12 km route in the Blue River Park follows former mule trails, offering vistas of South Caledonia’s diverse landscapes and Rivière Bleue valley. With a duration of 4.5 hours, it’s suitable for those in good physical condition.
Great Ferns trail – Farino
Explore altitudes ranging from 400 to 700 metres in this park, offering 40 km of marked trails. Discover panoramic views, coursing waterways, rainforests, and niaoulis. The trail map, available on the park’s website, guides you through routes of varying difficulty.
