New Caledonia is a paradise for hikers but many of the trails are unflagged. There are a number of different organizations available to help you find your way around the countryside.
For nature lovers and discovery enthusiasts, New Caledonia provides numerous trekking possibilities at all levels ranging from one hour to several days. There are signposted tracks for hikers who prefer to organise their own itinerary. However it is recommended to call on assistance from a local guide when hiking in the region of the mountain chain.
Guided excursions are organised to discover ancient Melanesian pathways. Botanical and cultural excursions can also be organised. Historic guided visits are available in and around Nouméa.
Several operators have qualified guides to accompany you on the discovery trail of New Caledonian tropical forests, from ground level up to the treetops.
Adventure trails (monkey bridge, tyrolien, Tarzan’s leap) as well as waterfall abseiling are also on offer.
The Grande Randonnée N°1 track (GR® 1)allows hikers to approach New Caledonia from unique angles and to have access to areas which can only be reached on foot. The first section of the track which was inaugurated in 2004, departs from Prony (in the far south of the mainland) and goes as far as the Parc de la Rivière Bleue in the Yaté district.
In its current configuration, the GR® 1 is divided into three sections. At the end of each section, a structure enables you to set up a bivouac. You can therefore walk the GR® 1, during the day, as the departures are easily accessible.
Adventure trails (monkey bridge, tyrolien, Tarzan’s leap) as well as waterfall abseiling are also on offer.
The second stage of the GR® NC1 has now been completed... The information boards at the beginning of each stage are currently being made. The last hut are built (Soleil mine, Tritaniopsis, Muletiers). They are open and free of charge. No reservation. The firts one is the lukiest one.
However, on the most difficult stage (the old Blue River refuge – Mine Soleil) 4 berth shelters have been installed : - one near the « Corne du Diable » (GPS 665 865 - 7558 579) - and another at the Fougères (Fern) camp (5km NE of the « Mine Soleil »).(GPS : 662 675 - 7 57 079)
Website : www.trekking-GR-Sud-nc.com