trip
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6 Days$2400USD

Activities
  • 4 day trek
Accommodation
  • 5 nights camping
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts
4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

 
 

Trip highlights


  • Get off the well trodden tourist trail and walk the GR North Track of New Caledonia (GR NORD)
  • Trek through a variety of diverse landscapes on this 4 day trek
  • See amazing diversity of flora and fauna endemic to the tropical climes
  • Learn about the local Kanak culture and village life you will encounter along the trail

Why Book With Us

  • World Expeditions has been offering active adventures around the world for 45 years.
  • Experienced, highly trained guides mean you are in safe hands.
  • Full pre and post trip support from your local office to help with flight booking, travel insurance and any of those pre trip queries you might have.
  • Venture where few others do. We are one of the only companies offering this hike.

Be a part of the first commercial groups to walk the unusually biodiverse GR North Track of New Caledonia (GR NORD) which is off the beaten path and far away from the cruise ships and tourist resorts. Driving from the capital of Noumea through the great plains of the West Coast cowboy country, this is in complete contrast to the tropical rainforests of the East Coast where our trek commences. The GR North Track provides a wonderful variety of landscapes, endemic plant species and birdlife, plus an opportunity for cultural encounters, and has everything that the avid hiker who loves nature, open spaces and genuine interactions could desire. We stay in different villages each night and learn about the local way of life and listen to their stories whilst sharing a traditional meal. Whilst the kanak hut accommodation is basic, you will be warmly welcomed and receive the best hospitality. Escorted by an expert guide, the terrain is physically challenging and interesting, and only requires a day pack.

Trip Code: NCH

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.

Meals:  L,D

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

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Meals:  B,L,D

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

Meals:  B,L


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 5 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches and 5 dinners
  • 5 nights fully supported camping in kanak villages on a multi-share basis with shared ablution facilities
  • Professional local guide and support staff
  • Private transportation
  • Sightseeing as listed in itinerary
  • Track fees
  • Medical kit

  • International flights
  • Accommodation and meals in Noumea
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Sleeping bags
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Expenditure of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, beverages etc
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Visas
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Optional excursions

Departure dates


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Priceper person from

$2400USD

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed New Caledonia Melanesian Village Hike trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


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Why travel with us

Award Winning Adventures

Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.

Thoughtful Travel

Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter. All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.

Ultimate Value

 When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.

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