New Caledonia Melanesian Village Hike

Join Noumea, early morning drive to Tchamba (5 hrs)

We pick you up at your accommodation in Noumea by private vehicle to the North Province (Ponérihouen), driving though the rolling fertile farmlands and nickel mining pits of the West cowboy country. We enjoy a stop for lunch in front of the largest lagoon in the world. Bourail town is the last stop for supplies before the start of the trek (ie. snacks, bottled water, wine, beer, soft drinks). Afterwards we cross to the East Coast via Col des Roussettes Pass and drive between the mountains and the coast. Arrival at Tchamba kanak village where you will be meet your host for dinner and accommodation. Remainder of the day at leisure to explore the local village and prepare for the trek. Approx driving time: 5 hrs.NOTE - Upon arrival at each Kanak village during the trek, you will make a welcome custom with your host or the local chief. Your guide will provide you with more details.

Commence kanak village hike, trek from Tchamba to St Thomas (7 hr, 20 km; ascent 790m/descent 780m)

The kanak people are the indigenous people of New Caledonia and are its largest ethnic group. They have inhabited the archipelago for about 6000 years, living in autonomous tribal communities in the narrow valleys between the mountains.We commence trekking the GR North Track (GR NORD) between the peaceful Tchamba Valley and Amoa Valley. Over the next 4 days, you will experience a wonderful diversity of landscapes crossing typical kanak fields, old coffee plantations, rainforests, open savanna, endemic trees and beautiful flora. Approx walking time/distance/gradient: 7 hr, 20 km; ascent 790m/descent 780m

Trek to Pombei (7-9 hr; 19.3 km; ascent 960m/descent 970m)

Walking between ridgelines and rainforest, the trail today is more physically demanding with many ascents and descents. The terrain is quite exposed with little shade in parts, so remember to keep hydrated. The landscape is constantly changing from paper bark (Niaouli) savanna forest to lush rainforest with beautiful endemic flora and giant Kaori trees. We enjoy our packed lunch with scenic views at Pineapple Pass. Following a steep downhill at the end and another river crossing, you will be warmly welcomed upon arrival at Pombei kanak village. Reward yourself with a refreshing dip in the river. Approx walking time/distance/gradient: 7-9 hr; 19.3 km; ascent 960m/descent 970m

Trek to Tiwae (7-8 hr; 16.8 km; ascent 980m/descent 750m)

This morning we cross the river twice so it is best to wear your water sandals. Today is the hardest walking day with uneven terrain, vertiginous drops and narrow paths, so care must be taken as it can be slippery underfoot. The trail is extremely hilly with lots of ascents and descents in well-preserved rainforest where giant trees abound. There is an opportunity to swim in some natural pools. Keep an eye and ear out for the call of either the endemic Notou pigeon, flightless Cagou or green parakeet, or sightings of wild deer. The last few kilometres are along the road leading to the remote and welcoming Tiwae kanak village.Approx walking time/distance/gradient: 7-8 hr; 16.8 km; ascent 980m/descent 750m

Trek to Ouanache (5.5-6.5 hr; 16.8 km; ascent 712m/descent 600m)

Our final trekking day is equally demanding with steep ascents and descents, very exposed with little shade, narrow paths and loose scree. We walk through local villages before walking through typical New Calédonia savanna with wonderful water views onto the coastal lagoon. The final section of the trail is in shady forest passing by limestone karstic formations, which we can explore after arrival at Ouanache campsite. Approx walking time/distance/gradient: 5.5-6.5 hr; 16.8 km; ascent 712m/descent 600m

Drive to Noumea, trip concludes (5 hrs)

This morning we will drive from the East Coast to the West Coast. Lunch enroute before arriving into Noumea, where the trip concludes. Approx driving time: 5 hrs