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Caledonian Travel Coach Holidays 2024 & Late Deals
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Caledonian Travel 2024 Holidays by Coach
Caledonian Travel 2024 holidays include an expanded range of holidays to Ireland and in mainland Europe as well as holidays in Spain. You will be able to experience some great events around the country.
Enjoy great British 2024 events like the Grand National, the Cheltenham Festival and the F1 British Grand Prix. For family breaks you can book for Legoland, Harry Potter and more. Box office breaks featuring top shows combined with accommodation and return travel. The popular Caledonian Travel Mystery Breaks are back offering even greater value at some amazing destinations.
Caledonian Travel offers a variety of travel experiences with amazing value and exceptional customer service, Caledonian holidays have coach travel departure points from Scotland, the North East of England and around Yorkshire.
It's an old cliché but Caledonian Travel do have something for everyone . There are short break getaway holidays to the countryside, popular British seaside resorts. Sport and music events as well as family fun breaks to theme parks and attractions. You may also find some special events get added to the selection of holidays available. These extra coach trips usually include the event ticket and return coach travel. There are also a good range of European Holidays by coach with the same convenient departure points.
Caledonian Coach Holidays 2024
Discover the benefits of caledonian travel holidays by coach.
Caledonian Travel holidays offer a range of benefits for people who want a hassle free holiday or trip as well as a convenient way to explore superb attraction or destination.
One of the main benefit is stress-free travel. You get on the coach at the pickup point and sit back and relax on route to your destination. Your professional driver will take care of the driving and can also offer advice on what to do and see at various stops and destinations.
A coach holiday can offer greater freedom than you think with free time to explore on your own. This could be at stope on the way to your final holiday destination or while you are enjoying a day trip excursion.
Most coach holidays tend to offer great value for money when you consider what is included. They generally include excellent hotel accommodation and meals as well as discounts or entry to various attractions, making traveling to some destinations easier and more affordable than before.
Caledonian Travel Mystery Tour
Will you visit a British seaside resort, enjoy a scenic countryside break or a city break. Enjoy the excitement and surprise of a Caledonian Travel Mystery Break.
You get to pick your departure dates and departure point as well as reserved seating on the coach. You also get one night dinner and bed and breakfast at a minimum of a 3 star hotel. Not forgetting the included excursions while you are there! All this for an incredible low price and the only thing you don't know is your destination!
So many people love these amazing holidays, you will find that many coach holiday companies offer a similar type of holiday experience.
Caledonian Travel All Inclusive Style Breaks (Drinks Packages)
Caledonian Travel off all inclusive style British breaks where you also get drinks included in the price of your holiday. While the drinks deals are not like the ones you get in holiday resorts abroad offering unlimited drinks, they do offer great value for money.
There are a few drinks package deals to choose from. There is the 2 for 1 bar deals and the inclusive offers that include a limited number of drinks per person per day. These drinks packages are offered on a good rage of trips including the tribute nights, seaside breaks, countryside breaks and Superdeals.
There are Caledonian Travel all inclusive holidays where your drinks are all included during certain times of the day. These are on the long stay holidays in destinations like Spain. You will also find all inclusive deals in Austria, Andorra, Spain, Germany and the Italian Lakes and Mountains destinations.
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Great Value Family Fun Caledonian Holidays by Coach
Enjoy a family break with return coach travel with reserved seating, accommodation and entry tickets to your chosen attraction.
- Alton Towers – Over 50 rides and attractions for all the family. Includes return hotel transfers to the Theme Park
- World of Harry Potter – Walking tour behind the scenes with access to see many of the film props including Hogwarts Express and Platform 9 ¾.
- Legoland Windsor Resort – Over 55 interactive rides and shows. Plus access to 150 acres of parkland with Miniland.
- Chester Zoo & Blackpool Tower – A visit to the famous Chester Zoo and a chance to go up to the top of the 380ft and enjoy the view from the Blackpool Tower eye.
- Cadburys & Safari Adventure – Visit the chocolate world of Cadbury! plus West Midland Safari Park
There are lots of other family coach holidays to choose from. You could work your way through them during the school holidays and enjoy some special family moments together.
Caledonian Travel Disneyland Paris
Caledonian Travel offer Disneyland® Paris holidays by coach offer a 3 nights stay at the Campanile Val De France Hotel with free shuttle transfers to and from the Disney Parks. You also get a two day pass for admission to both Disneyland® Park & The Walt Disney Studios® Park.
Caledonian Travel to Blackpool
Caledonian Travel to Blackpool offer an exciting range of coach holidays to Blackpool throughout the year. Your Caledonian Travel Blackpool trip includes return coach travel with reserved seating on the coach. Plus your Blackpool holidays includes your chosen accommodation, meals (drinks promotions are available in selected hotels) There will be plenty of free time to enjoy Blackpool whatever way you want.
Blackpool has something for everyone. Take a stroll along the promenade or relax on the beach with an ice cream. If you have had enough relaxation head to the Pleasure Beach theme park offering loads of fun for all the family. Another favourite is the iconic Blackpool Tower and the Skywalk. The Skywalk gives you an interesting view of the Irish sea and the promenade below. Not really a trip for anyone with a fear of heights. So leave them in the coffee shop and make sure you don't miss out. Another popular attraction is Blackpool Zoo if you have time to fit it in!
For some retail therapy head into the town centre for the various shops or Houndshill Shopping Centre and pick up a few bargains!
In the evening there is loads of great entertainment particularly on the Central Pier during the peak holiday season. Alternatively book a show in the Grand Theatre on Church Street opposite the central pier. One of the things Blackpool is famous for is the Blackpool Illuminations
So why not discover one of Britain's best seaside resorts and take a fantastic coach break to Blackpool this summer. Caledonian Travel offer a variety of Blackpool holidays by coach for 2, 3, 4 or 5 day durations. Whatever trip you select expect sensational value and a fantastic holiday experience.
Caledonian Travel Glasgow
Caledonian Travel Glasgow have an office on Hope Street in Glasgow. So it is hardly surprising that they offer a big choice of holidays and day break options from Glasgow. You can travel throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland by coach for short breaks at the seaside or in the countryside. Alternatively take a coach tour and explore a range of destinations or countries.
There is a huge scope of options, you can travel by Caledonian Holidays coach from Glasgow to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany and Italy. There are Lakes and Mountains Holidays in Italy, Mini Cruises, City Breaks and Christmas markets.
Day trips from Glasgow include a day break in Oban, St Andrews, Stirling & the Kelpies, Fort William & Glencoe or Arbroath & Montrose. Other day break destinations include Pitlochry, Loch Tummel & Queen's View and the Mull of Kintyre. Some day trips offer you the chance to go to special seasonal or sporting events like the Magical Enchanted Forest near Pitlochry.
Caledonian Travel Late Deals
Caledonian Travel late deals can offer a great way to save some money off some last minute trips. You won't get the same selection of availability and choice of reserved seating on the coach. However you get the chance to get away with everything taken care of for you.
Just join the pick-up point and sit back and relax as you head to your chosen holiday destination. These breaks are ideal for a spontaneous and surprise trip with family or friends. Caledonian Travel have a special late deals page on their website listing all their last minute availability and discounted holiday deals.
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Caledonian Travel Day Trips
Caledonian Travel offer a wide variety of great value day trips. There are lots of options to choose from depending on what pick up point your are leaving from.
Caledonian Day trips from the North East
Holy Island, Bamburgh, Blackpool?, Bridlington, Edinburgh, Harrogate?, Lake District, Leeds, Liverpool?, Malton, Scarborough, Skipton?, Whitby & York
Caledonian Day trips from Yorkshire
Blackpool, Bridlington, Chester?, Filey, Harrogate?, Lake District, Liverpool?, Malton, Scarborough, Skegness?, Skipton & Whitby
Caledonian Day trips from Scotland
Holy Island, Alnwick, Arbroath, Edinburgh, Fort William, Lake District, North Berwick, Oban, Peebles, Pitlochry?, St Andrews & Stirling
Where are Caledonian Travel Coach Departure Points?
There are Caledonian Travel Coach breaks departing from Scotland, Northern England & Yorkshire. Each departure point offers a convenient way to start your break
Caledonian Travel Scottish departure points
- Glasgow – Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow, G2 3NW
- Hamilton – Bus Station, Brandon Street, Hamiltion, ML3 6AB
- Paisley – Opposite Wallneuk Church, Abercorn Street, Paisley, PA3 4AB
- Gretna – Gretna Village Outlets, Glasgow Road, Gretna, DG16 5GG
Caledonian Travel North East England departure points
- Sunderland – Park Lane Interchange – Stands W+X, Sunderland, SR1 3NX
- Stockton – High Street, Swallow Hotel, Stockton, TS18 1AQ
- Newcastle – Bus Stops, Bewick Street, Opposite Central Station, Newcastle, NE1 5EJ
- Middlesbrough – Bus Station, Express Departure Lounge, Middlesbrough, TS1 5EA
- Gateshead – Metro Interchange, Gateshead, NE8 1AU
- Darlington – The Dolphin Centre Layby, Darlington, DL1 5PT
Caledonian Travel Yorkshire departure points
- Halifax – Bus Station, Winding Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire HX1 1UU
- Bradford – Nelson Street, Bradford, BD1 5AX
- Anlaby – Opposite the Red Lion, Wilson Street, Anlaby, HU10 7AN
- Castleford – Albion Street, Castleford, WF10 1EW
- Leeds – National Express Coach Station, Dyer Street, Leeds, LS2 7LA
- Goole – Airmyn Road Bus Stop, Goole, DN14 6XD
- Hessle – Bus stop, Centre of Hessle Square, Hessle, HU13 0AA
- Barnsley – Interchange, Schwabisch Gmund Way, Barnsley S71 1BP
- Rotherham – RotherhamInterchange, Frederick Street, Rotherham S60 1QB
- Hull – Paragon Interchange – Bays A-D, Hull, HU1 3QX
- Wakefield – Providence Street, Bus Station, Wakefield, WF1 3AQ
- Huddersfield – Bus Station, Upperhead Row, Huddersfield HD1 2JN
For holidays abroad it is always recommended that you check the latest government travel advice. You can do this by visiting > www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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Coach Holidays, Escorted Tours & Events
0330 440 3999, monday - friday 9am to 5pm, caledonian travel.
Caledonian Travel Departs From : Glasgow, Tyneside, Teesside, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire
Caledonian Travel is one of the UK’s leading coach holiday companies, offering sensational value short breaks & holidays throughout the UK, Ireland, and Europe, with 1000’s of breaks under £100. The company operates over 70 high-quality, environmentally friendly coaches along with an industry-leading team of trusted drivers and representatives, priding itself on providing fantastic value holidays whilst delivering an outstanding level of customer service as a Feefo Platinum Service Provider. They’ve also been voted for by their customers as ‘Best Large Travel Company for Coach Holidays’ in the British Travel Awards 2022!
With convenient pick-up points in Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire, holidays are easier and more accessible than ever. There’s a range of short breaks and holidays with exciting itineraries included, from day breaks and family attractions to box office breaks and 15-day European tours – there’s something for everyone! You can enjoy a hassle-free holiday with reserved coach seating, inclusive excursions, inclusive admission to most events, and half board with evening entertainment included on most breaks.
- Box Office Breaks – West End Shows , Headliner Concerts, Regional Theatre and Tribute Acts
- Special Events – Flower Shows, Air Shows, Horse Shows and more
- Family Fun – Harry Potter Studios, Theme Parks, Zoos and more
- Weekend and City Breaks
- Seaside Breaks
- Sporting Event Breaks
- Explore Europe and Discover Ireland
- Mystery Surprise Breaks
Low £20 Deposit Your place on most of Caledonian Travel’s short breaks and holidays can be secured with just a £20 deposit per person!
Price Match Promise Caledonian Travel promises to match the price of any exact short break or holiday if you find it cheaper elsewhere, so you always know you’re getting the best price – plus, get a £10 holiday voucher thrown in for good measure!
The Coaches All of Caledonian Travel’s coaches have air-conditioning, individually reclining seats, on-board toilet facilities and experienced drivers who can help make your holiday as enjoyable as possible!
Trust Caledonian You can book with confidence with Caledonian Travel. When you book, your money goes straight into an independent Trust, where it is held until after your break is finished before being released to Caledonian Travel. This means that if your break cannot go ahead due to any government restrictions and advice, your money is 100% safe and is guaranteed to be refunded to you within 7 days. The Gold Standard of Customer Protection!
Office Address: The Travel Centre, Unit C Millshaw Business Park, Global Avenue, Leeds, England, LS11 8PR
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Coach Holidays by Caledonian Travel
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New caledonia travel tips: 20 tips for a smooth and stress-free trip.
New Caledonia’s beauty made me forget it all, but I have to be honest: organising a trip to this tropical destination was a lot harder than I expected . Here are some New Caledonia travel tips that will save you from any headaches and frustrating moments! If you’re looking for some shopping tips in New Caledonia, check out this article .
If you’ve been to this island paradise, please share your tips in the comments!
New Caledonia travel tips: Things to know before you go
Planning a trip to New Caledonia? Check out this article about the things to do in New Caledonia for inspiration and this packing list with tips to ensure you don’t forget anything essential!
Don’t go to New Caledonia on a big cruise boat
![caledonia travel isle of pines - cruise boat](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/isle-of-pines-cruise-boat-hor.jpg?resize=770%2C578&ssl=1)
That’s a very personal opinion, of course, but I think visiting New Caledonia via a big cruise boat is a waste . I’ve explained it all in this article . But to sum it all up: with hundreds of people crowding the popular spots, you won’t get the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and have even a glimpse of an authentic, peaceful experience.
Related article: Big Cruise to New Caledonia? Not for me!
Use your phone to book New Caledonia accommodations and tours
If you choose not to stay at a hotel, booking tours and accommodations in New Caledonia can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you don’t speak French. You may struggle to find current information and book online. You will often need a week or so and a couple of follow-ups to receive a reply to some of your emails… when you do receive a response. It’s part of the laid-back island life!
If you speak French, don’t hesitate to call . That’s how the smaller businesses work on the islands. If you don’t speak French, I highly recommend tip #6.
Stay flexible when you travel around New Caledonia
Don’t plan too much. Flexibility will save you a lot of trouble during a trip to New Caledonia. It’s not surprising to have your domestic flight time changed only a couple of days before flying. Most of the time, it is due to the weather. From our experience, it was a technical issue. Another time, locals blocked the airport on smaller islands to put pressure on the domestic airline for better deals for locals. It’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance *.
Avoid planning activities on the days when you have to travel from one place to another.
Read this article about how we handled situations when things didn’t go as planned during our New Caledonia trips.
Remember Noumea has two airports!
Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, has two airports, and you don’t want to mix them up. Tontouta airport is where you’ll arrive for international flights; it is actually about 45 min away from Noumea by car. Domestic flights to the smaller islands leave from Magenta airport, close to the town centre.
Hire a car… or not!
New Caledonia is not a cheap destination, so hiring a car will greatly impact your budget. You may not need a car for your entire trip, but don’t leave the decision for when you arrive there – especially for the smaller islands. During the peak season, car rentals can get fully booked !
Noumea : If you only have a couple of days to explore the town, it is likely that you won’t need a car. Book a hotel near the Anse Vata or Baie des Citrons , and then you can walk to most tourist attractions. However, if you are a group flying from Tontouta, transfers can quickly get expensive (3,000 XPF per person or 10,000 XPF for a private car) so you may want to save this and rent a car. If you have more time in Noumea, I would recommend a vehicle to wander out of the town, where the most beautiful things are.
Related article: Noumea, the Capital of the world’s largest lagoon
Grande Terre: You won’t be able to explore the main island without a car.
Isle of Pines: We did not need a car for our short stay. All the activities we did included a transfer from the hotel. If you stay in Kanumera or Kuto, you can walk to different restaurants. If you stay a bit longer and want to experience more than the usual tourist attractions, a car is needed.
Lifou: Lifou is a big island. In my opinion, you cannot visit Lifou without a car.
Ouvea: Even if Ouvea is not a big island, it is very long. Many tours leave from the Lekini campsite, so you may choose not to get a car if you stay there or at the nearby resort. Otherwise, I highly recommend booking one, especially as the north of the island is a lovely place to explore.
From our experience, I wouldn’t recommend driving by night in New Caledonia, especially if you are there during the festive period. We have seen a couple of accidents and heard many bad stories.
![caledonia travel New Caledonia Things To Do - South of Grande Terre](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/new-caledonia-noumea-day-trip-south.jpg?resize=1024%2C295&ssl=1)
Consider using a travel agent
If you stay away from resorts, the booking system in New Caledonia has room for improvement. You may have to call several times to get the right person to talk to, and find out that the information you read on a website wasn’t accurate or that they are full. When you place a booking, it is often all over the phone, and you don’t get a written confirmation.
I had some fun surprises with people who were not that professional. One took my booking without asking for the dates. Another one said she took note of my booking, but I had to get there early or they would give it to someone else. Although you’d have to pay a fee, you may want to save time and reduce your worries by asking a travel agent to help. That’s what we did for our accommodation on Lifou and Ouvea. We felt it was safer to have a written receipt and someone to talk to if we had an issue with the booking. We were a group of six, so finding a Plan B at the last minute would have been challenging.
It was stressful during the trip, but we mostly had good surprises once in the archipelago. The only issue we actually had was with our car rental on Ouvea Island. We specifically asked to hire a vehicle for six people and were told it was possible. Unfortunately, the travel agent couldn’t book our car rental on Ouvea, so we had no written confirmation. A beautiful car was waiting for us at the airport when we arrived, but it was for five people only. Well, they said the boot was big enough for the sixth person!
Choose the right season to visit New Caledonia
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We travelled to New Caledonia from Christmas to the beginning of the year. I had to take compulsory leave during the festive season, so our dates weren’t flexible. You will have a better experience if you avoid the Christmas holiday season.
Locals are on vacation at that time too. Families come together, so people are less available for tourists. Some tours are not running at all. You have less choice available for accommodation. Between the bank holidays and the weekends, many things like car rentals or internal flights are harder to plan.
Also, the beginning of the year is cyclone season. It doesn’t mean you should not go at that time: we were lucky and hardly had rain during our two-week trip. But there is a risk with the weather whereas the rest of the year is mostly sunny.
You may want to check the marine life season too. For example, manta rays were mating during our stay so we could not go to their cleaning station to swim with them. It wasn’t a big deal for us as we are lucky to have manta rays coming close to Brisbane . But it is always a pleasant experience, and it could become a highlight if you plan to see them.
![caledonia travel new caledonia - ouvea - rain and sunset](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/new-caledonia-ouvea-rain-and-sunset.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&ssl=1)
Inform your bank about your trip to New Caledonia
This tip is valid for any foreign destination you go to, but it won’t hurt to put it here as a reminder. You’ll be in trouble if you cannot withdraw cash because you set a daily limit on your bank account. Half of our group had issues at the ATM and could only withdraw a small amount of cash! How inconvenient!
Don’t stay for too long in Noumea
That’s a personal point of view, but Noumea is probably the worst place we visited in New Caledonia. Don’t get me wrong; Noumea is great, and I will happily go back. It’s just that the rest of New Caledonia is a lot more stunning. So if you have more than a couple of days in New Caledonia: escape from the town! Related article: Noumea, the Capital of the world’s largest lagoon
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Manage your expectations
We met lovely people who were happy to see us and had a fabulous trip. And I’m glad we managed our expectations regarding the level of service we would get during this voyage. People from New Caledonia are very friendly, but it is quickly obvious that they are not always well-trained in tourism and hospitality. It’s not a destination built with tourism in mind like some other Pacific Island. That’s part of the charm!
A few extra travel tips to make your trip to New Caledonia cheaper
Avoid hotels.
Hotels are very expensive in New Caledonia, and they’re the most straightforward accommodation option for visitors who don’t speak French at all.
But check out this great alternative for those with a smaller budget and looking for a more authentic experience: you can stay “with” locals. What you get when you stay with locals seems random. I advise you to read some reviews on TripAdvisor to know what to expect – although our experience was every time a lot better than many reviews we read.
If you are a group, staying in a “ case ” is a good deal. Most of the time, you pay a fixed amount for the “case” for two people, and then the price to add extra people is a lot cheaper. Twice, we got a “case” for the six of us!
Except in Noumea, you won’t find many AirBNB rentals. If you are happy to carry around your tent and linen, camping is the cheapest option for accommodation.
![caledonia travel Lilo reve - lifou - accueil en tribu](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Lilo-reve-lifou-accueil-en-tribu.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
Consider using Le Pass
If you want to fly to the different islands, Air Caledonie Pass could save you a bit of money. It allows you to get four flights for around 30,000 XPF. Destinations covered from and to Noumea are Ouvéa, Maré, Lifou, Isle of Pines, Koné and Touho. You’ll need to contact [email protected] to organise Le Pass for you. The special tariff is not available for every flight so you will need to tell them the destinations and dates you would like to fly, and they will offer the best match they can.
I recommend checking the prices with their online booking system before signing for Le Pass: if you manage to book a promo fare, you could even get a better deal than Le Pass!
This way, you’ll have room to bring food with you from Noumea to avoid restaurants on the islands, if you do want to save money that way. Tourism brings significant revenue to the people living on the island, so I recommend playing the game of spending money there. But it can rapidly become expensive to pay for three meals a day. Sometimes, I had my own food for breakfasts as I found them really pricey and generally of low quality, whereas I could be very happy with the French biscuits that I usually miss so much.
Also, as luggage weight is limited when you have Pass tickets with the local airlines, it makes it easier to travel with limited luggage. Check out this packing list for New Caledonia ; I’m sure you’ll find helpful tips there.
Take your snorkelling set
![caledonia travel new caledonia snorkel mask](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/new-caledonia-snorkel-mask.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&ssl=1)
There are places where you can hire a snorkelling set, but that’s not everywhere. It is way better to carry your snorkelling equipment to enjoy what the world’s largest lagoon can offer fully. We did not bring fins because it is bulky and not needed too much in the lagoons. But we brought our masks and snorkels.
If you need to buy equipment in New Caledonia, I recommend going to Decathlon in Noumea.
New to snorkelling? You could be interested in this full-face mask * that allows you to breathe more naturally (with the nose) and gives more side vision than the smaller masks. Click here to find out more * or check out these tips about choosing the best snorkel gear .
New Caledonia travel tips once you’ve arrived
Get a mobilis.
That’s how they call the sim card to have a local mobile phone number. It can be bought at the Post Office or at a cell phone store. You will often need a mobile phone to confirm the activities, the hotel bookings, to check the flight times and to book the restaurants. This will be less true if you book your trip with the help of an agency, but you would still want the agency to be able to update you if your flight time has changed…!
Don’t forget sunscreen and clothes to cover yourself
The sun in New Caledonia is extreme. You can get burnt in a few minutes if you don’t wear sun protection. This can ruin your holidays, so don’t take any risks and wear sunscreen! Be careful to have enough sunscreen to cover your stay on the islands. It is a rare gem on the islands, but it is easy to buy in Noumea!
Responsible travel tip : Did you know that your sunscreen could harm the fragile ecosystem of the coral reef? It’s essential to be mindful of what you’re applying to your skin when snorkelling or swimming near the reef. The best way to protect your skin from the sun is to cover up with long sleeves and pants. If you must use sunscreen, choose a mineral-based one to avoid harmful substances (see the full list here ). Mineral ingredients are less harmful to the environment and provide excellent protection. Apply the sunscreen at least 20 minutes before entering the water to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Talk to local people
If you speak French or are lucky to find locals who speak English, have a go and talk to them. Most of the local people we met were very open to speaking about their culture and their environment. We learnt a lot from them, from a cultural point of view and also got excellent travel tips.
Ask when the cruise will be there
![caledonia travel Isle of Pines - Piscine Naturelle](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Isle-of-Pines-Piscine-Naturelle.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1)
The locals usually know when a cruise will be there. Try to plan your visits around that: some places not too far from where the boat stays will be crowded. You will have a better time further away, by picking a destination that requires a car, for example. Related article: Big cruise to New Caledonia? Not for me!
Travel with cash
You will need to pay in cash for most of the guided activities. If you choose to avoid hotels and stay with locals without using a travel agency, you’ll need to pay by cash here as well. Some restaurants only accept cash. You may even have to pay your dives in cash on some islands. We had no issues with the ATM on the islands, but we were told while preparing for the trip that they can sometimes be empty. So don’t take any risks and travel with cash to cover most of your expenses.
Try the local specialities… but don’t forget to book a table!
![caledonia travel New Caledonia - Isle of Pines - snails](https://i0.wp.com/myfavouriteescapes.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/15-New-Caledonia-Isle-of-Pines-snails-e1526106491415.jpg?resize=500%2C375&ssl=1)
New Caledonia has a strong island culture which is fantastic to discover. Add some French notes, and you won’t be disappointed with the local dishes.
Don’t be afraid to eat at the small local “restaurants”. You will often need to book in advance for restaurants on the islands, outside of Noumea. Sometimes, you will not have a choice with a menu: they serve you what they have today. Sometimes, you will have to let them know what you want to eat in advance. And some places are expensive for what you actually get. But overall, we had great experiences eating in New Caledonia, and we discovered new savours!
Where is New Caledonia?
New Caledonia is a French archipelago in the South Pacific , located near Vanuatu . It is the closest foreign destination from the East Coast of Australia .
What are your New Caledonia travel tips? Leave a comment below!
Check out more things to do:, this post has 9 comments.
It’s always a good idea to pack your own mask and snorkel if going to the tropics. Some places you can pick up germs from the snorkel. Advice from our local dive shop who have talked to people coming back after trips.
That’s a very good advice indeed! Thank you for sharing, Carolyn!
What a great article! I couldn’t agree more with all that you have advised (I’m New Caledonian). Especially true is the fact that there is no mass tourism in New Caledonia – an advantage and drawback all at once. Alexandra @mynewcaledonia
Thank you for your sweet words, Alexandra!
Hi, I just found your article and I must say that you gave pretty amazing and very accurate tips to travel in New Caledonia. Also I’m a local and I thank you for encouraging travellers to talk to people and to explore more than just Nouméa. I might just add one thing, shops close early. When you leave the city it becomes even more complicated as there are less grocery shops and some of them even close during lunch break.
Thank you very much Meriba for taking the time to leave feedback and an additional tip. It’s indeed very good to mention the shops close early. And also that most supermarkets don’t open on Sundays! I was used to this in France but now that I’m in Australia, I lost the habit and I got surprised! 😛
Thank you guys. I have been to Noumea on a cruise ship and loved it. I would go back in a heart beat especially now that I have seen your blog.
Fantastic and so true I am trying to book a ferry from noumea to Oro bay it’s a nightmare I am so stressed
Thanks for the info, planning my 60th there in August and trying to work out what I can cover in 2 weeks and how much time to spend in Noumea. Luckily my husband is french speaking and he’s looking forward to using french after 10 yrs living in New Zealand.
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Ultimate New Caledonia Travel Guide: All You Need to Know
![caledonia travel New Caledonia Island Hopping](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NewCaledonia4.jpg)
What comes to your mind when you think of New Caledonia? A French-speaking island in the Pacific?
Before I boarded the plane from Brisbane to fly with the national airline Aircalin just under 2 hours east to this French island territory, I didn't know much at all.
Enter palm-lined beaches, the world's largest lagoon paired with the second largest barrier reef, some of the most delicious seafood and fresh warm croissants like you'd find them in the streets of cities in France.
Useful New Caledonia Travel Tips
![caledonia travel Noumea Ouen Toro Hill](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Noumea-Ouen-Toro-Hill.jpg)
There are some things you should know before heading to New Caledonia.
Being part of France, the national language is French as well as their own local languages spoken by the native Kanak tribes. English is used widely in tourism, but I have found that New Caledonians really appreciate it when you try some words or sentences in French, so it doesn't hurt to learn.
New Caledonia uses Pacific Franc or CFP (Comptoirs Français du Pacifique). Euro is not used here.
![caledonia travel new caledonia travel guide](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Islands-of-New-Caledonia.jpg)
The climate is very much like in Brisbane, Australia. It's pleasant around the year with winter highs in the 20s and summer highs going over 30 degrees. So when is the best time to visit New Caledonia? Mid-December to late January as well as July and August are peak months for visitors, if you want to find affordable accommodation and less crowds, go in May-June and September-October. They are ideal months to miss the height of the wet season and possible cyclones too.
New Caledonia doesn't require any visas for short stays of less than 3 months for most nations . Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your return date.
Leaving a tip is unnecessary in New Caledonia as most prices are shown as full and inclusive of any tax.
Getting To And Around New Caledonia
![caledonia travel New Caledonia travel guide](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NewCaledonia3.jpg)
While many visitors come to New Caledonia by cruise ship, I highly recommend you consider flying into Noumea directly.
Coming by cruise, you will not be able to appreciate the diverse landscape, the hospitality of the local people and beautiful underwater marine life – and you surely won't get to see the lagoon with its reef and many little islands from the air.
Flying With Aircalin To New Caledonia
![caledonia travel Business Class Aircalin](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Aircalin3.jpg)
With Aircalin you can easily fly into New Caledonia from some of Australia's major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
I also learned that you can fly from Noumea with Aircalin all the way to France as well as Tokyo , Osaka, Los Angeles, Fiji , Vanuatu and Auckland . You can actually reach over 110 destinations from Noumea thanks to the extensive network of partner airlines.
I had the pleasure of flying Business Class from Brisbane to Noumea which was great from the lounge visit ahead of the flight to the beautiful food and incredibly attentive service during the flight and landing at La Tontouta International Airport after a very short two-hour flight.
Noumea's airport La Tontouta is roughly 50 km from the city and takes 30-40 minutes in an airport shuttle. Note that Noumea also has another airport called Magenta Airport, which is about 38 km from the city of Noumea and serves domestic flights only.
Hiring A Car To Get Around
The best way to get around New Caledonia is by hiring a car. It definitely makes sense if you want to explore the main island of New Caledonia, Grande Terre.
If you didn't know it yet, but New Caledonia actually has five main islands: Ouvea, Lifou, Mare, Isle of Pines and Grande Terre, the biggest island where the capital Noumea is located as well as many of New Caledonia's activities and things to see.
It's easy to hire a car right in Noumea or at the airport, a 2WD might be sufficient but if you head into the southern parts, many roads are narrow and winding, some are dirt roads and I think a 4WD would be a smart choice. Also, know that it is a right-hand drive over here. It's recommended to book ahead of time rather than on the ground as vehicles are often booked out fast, especially during peak periods.
Best Things To Do In Noumea
![caledonia travel Noumea Anse Vata Bay](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Noumea-Lemon-Bay-1.jpg)
The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea is the largest city in the country boasting beautiful picturesque bays framed by sandy beaches, French restaurants and world-class snorkelling in a living aquarium right at its shores.
It's classy, it's casual, its facades look a bit grungy. The city comes to life through its contrasts and is worth exploring for a whole day.
![caledonia travel New CaledoniaMarkets](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/New-Caledonia-Markets-1.jpg)
- Port Moselle Market Noumea's biggest market is open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 am to 11.30 am and has been selling fresh produce to the population since 1991 under five odd-looking hexagonal pavilions. It today is a main tourist attraction and great to browse around for some souvenirs and stock up on fresh fruit.
- Coconut Tree Square The square can be found in the heart of the city and is a green oasis and a meeting place for locals. During the year, you can find small markets, concerts and other events on the square. Since I visited so close to Christmas, I also got to see the massive Christmas tree that is put up on the tree annually.
- Morand Chocolate Factory You are definitely spoilt for choice when visiting this shop. Chocolat Morand is an institution in Noumea and has been making chocolate and fine pastries since 2000. I had the privilege of meeting the husband and wife team for a tasting of their unique creations. The best spot to visit in Noumea for chocolate lovers!
- Anse Vata Beach & Lemon Bay Anse Vata is the city's largest beach and is great for relaxing, having a picnic or strolling along the promenade which houses many bars, restaurants and shops. Lemon Bay, called Baie des Citrons in French, is the smaller sister to Anse Vata and is typically a bit more sheltered from the wind.
- Tijbaou Cultural Center The structure of Tijbaou Cultural Center left me in awe. The eye-catching structures designed by world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, who also designed the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the cultural center is a great introduction to the local Kanak culture. It features an art centre, museum, performance center, library and a beautifully landscaped park.
- Ouen Toro Hill One of my favourite spots in Noumea was Ouen Toro, the hill towering over Noumea's southern end. You can walk or drive up and then enjoy the 360 views across the city and surrounding ocean. Plan your visit around the cruise ships coming in as many groups get wheeled up there in mini buses which makes the spot busy and less tranquil than it truly is.
![caledonia travel Noumea Cultural Center](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Noumea-Cultural-Center.jpg)
- Le Meridien Noumea Resort & Spa I loved my stay at the Le Meridien right on the shores of Anse Vata Bay. The air-conditioned room was big and had a great little balcony with ocean views, a bathtub and free Wi-Fi. There is also a big outdoor pool with plenty of sun chairs, a bar serving drinks and snacks right at what feels like a private beach. The breakfast buffet is a huge plus as it has something for everyone, including all the delicious French pastries, baguette and a station for freshly cooked eggs.
- For other hotel recommendations around Noumea, check out my f ull accommodation guide here.
![caledonia travel new caledonia travel guide](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Le-Meridien-Resort-And-Spa-Noumea.jpg)
Eat & Drink
- Néa Bowls If you're on the hunt for healthy and fresh meals in downtown Noumea (next to Coconut Square), Néa Bowls is your pick! This little cafe has delightful decor and serves up some of the best vegetarian dishes in town. Also vegan-friendly! Green detox juice, tasty carrot cake and delicious Buddha bowls are perfect for lunch.
- MV Lounge A fabulous spot for a drink as the bar sits right on the beach at the far end of Lemon Bay. Opt for the deck or get a spot right on the beach and drink your cocktail with your feet in the sand. Beautiful ambiance with music and little lantern lights, loved it!
- Au Ptit Café This open cafe/restaurant set under large trees on a rather busy street is often hard to get a reservation at. Rightly so, as the food is frequently changing according to the seasonal ingredients available at the local market combined with French flavours. I came here for dinner as it was recommended by locals and definitely wasn't disappointed. Make sure to try the cheesecake, if you can still fit that in after your meal.
- Le Roof Set along the promenade of Anse Vata Bay, Le Roof is hard to miss as it sits on stilts out at the end of a pier and offers fine dining along with amazing sunsets. Come here for seafood and be prepared to pay for the price and atmosphere. In the middle of the restaurant there is a spot where you can watch sealife. It's said that a local dolphin often comes for a visit at sunset, but I spotted a small reef shark, pretty cool.
- Marmite et Tire Bouchon My favourite in all of Noumea. The extensive wine list (visible in the adjacent wine cellar!) compliments the innovative meals on the French-inspired menu. The food is very tasty and great value. Beautiful desserts too!
![caledonia travel Best Noumea Vegetarian Cafe](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Noumea-food.jpg)
Best Things To Do In New Caledonia
Island hopping.
Of course, I didn't come to New Caledonia to just explore Noumea, there is actually so much more to this country than I ever thought.
You definitely have to take a few days to go island hopping. It's fairly easy to base yourself in Noumea and explore a new island every day. Here are some of the islands that are close by and can easily be visited in a day:
- Duck Island: This island can easily be reached by taxi boat as it actually sits in Anse Vata Bay and offers incredible marine life. Duck Island (Ile aux Canards) is perfect for snorkelling and relaxing and sunbathing.
- Amedee Island: Another great day trip a little further out in the bay lies Amedee Island (roughly 40 minutes by boat), where you find white powder sand against the turquoise ocean and the famous Amedee lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in the world, overlooking it all. It's frequented by glass-bottom boat tour companies and great for underwater experiences like snorkelling and diving and it's not uncommon to find yourself swimming next to turtles.
- Maitre Island: Said to be the closest overwater bungalows to Australia, L’Escapade Island Resort on Ilot Maître is easily reached in 20 minutes by boat from Noumea and offers an amazingly private place to stay, one of the best places to stay for couples in New Caledonia. You can also come here on a day trip to swim alongside the abundance of marine animals.
- Other islands worth visiting close to Noumea include: Sainte-Marie Island, Signal Island, Laregnere Island, Goeland Island.
There are plenty of stunning islands all around New Caledonia, many of them uninhabited and boasting paradise beaches with picturesque scenery.
On my last day in New Caledonia I had the chance to go on a catamaran to visit a very special island called Ilot M'Bo which I have found no information about online but only seen with my own eyes. When we arrived, we had the island all to ourselves, no boats around but crystal clear water against snow-white sand. Walking around the island only took 10 minutes before we threw ourselves into the turquoise ocean. Paradise on earth.
![caledonia travel New Caledonia activities](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NewCaledonia2.jpg)
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Isle Of Pines
Unfortunately, I didn't have time to visit the Isle of Pines but I know I will have to when I return to New Caledonia. Known as ‘the jewel of the Pacific' the island is best known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and soaring pine trees.
To get to the Isle of Pines, you will either have to take a 2.5-hour ferry ride from Noumea or you can also fly in 20 minutes to the island. I heard that this place is so beautiful, it's out of this world. And when you're sick of bathing in the natural pools (how could you ever get sick of that!), you can explore caves or hike to the island peak.
I already moved a stay at the Le Méridien Ile des Pins on the shores of Oro Bay towards the top of my bucket list!
The Great South
![caledonia travel New Caledonia](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NewCaledonia1.jpg)
Did you know New Caledonia also has a wild side? Yes, it does. Drive a few hours south from Noumea and you will suddenly hit deep red sand, a rugged landscape and historic sites like Prony village. This deserted village used to serve as a penal colony in its early days and later became home to families of miners but was left abandoned in the late 1960s and is today only visited by tourists.
The south of New Caledonia also houses many waterfalls such as the La Madeleine and Goro Falls. I didn't get to visit Yate Dam but it sounds like another impressive experience.
![caledonia travel Prony Village New Caledonia](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/The-Great-South-4.jpg)
My highlight of visiting the Great South of New Caledonia was definitely Cap N'Dua Lighthouse at the southern tip of New Caledonia's main island. From the car park, it's an easy 10-minute hike up to get to the lonely lighthouse with the most stunning views over the natural reserve, the open ocean and nearby islands.
That night, we stayed in a remotely beautiful place at the Kanua Tera Ecolodge. The cute and rustic bungalows are set right at the shores of Port Boise Bay, perfect for snorkelling, swimming and jumping off the on-site floating jetty. It's quite a journey from Noumea to get here, but for true tranquility and seclusion, this is your spot! Surrounded by tropical forest, there is also a restaurant and bar and surely, you'll have the beach almost for yourself as there are only 18 huts.
![caledonia travel new caledonia travel guide](https://breathingtravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/The-Great-South.jpg)
New Caledonia has taken my heart by storm and I cannot wait to go back to explore more of the other islands. With only two hours flight time from Brisbane, it almost seems ridiculous that I haven't thought about visiting earlier!
To me, this country has a lot to offer, especially for ocean and nature enthusiasts but also gets to satisfy foodies and culture geeks.
Book Your Trip To New Caledonia
Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to New Caledonia. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect New Caledonia accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities I like finding and pre-booking tours with Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees I highly recommend getting a Wise account to withdraw money in New Caledonia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Pacific Franc. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more! Get the Best eSIM Getting an eSIM card eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !
This post is brought to you in collaboration with Aircalin, the international airline of New Caledonia.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!
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Carolin is a travel expert born in Germany. She has been travelling around the world since 2014 and now lives in her adopted soul home Australia. Her travel advice has been featured on Forbes, Daily Mail, Yahoo!, News.com.au, Tour Radar, Expedia and she's also been named one of the top travel bloggers you need to follow by Tourism Queensland.
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Caledonian Travel Reviews
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The lady who I spoke to when booking my…
The lady who I spoke to when booking my break was very helpful, she spent time finding me a single occupancy break and rung me back when she had found one
Date of experience : August 12, 2024
Stratford and The Cotswolds
We had a lovely weekend away to Stratford and The Cotswolds. The trips are fabulous value for money and we have seen places we would never make the effort to go to under our own steam. Our driver, Trevor, was great.
Date of experience : August 23, 2024
Great Trip !
Great Trip except for the weather. Keswick just as i remember it. Driver was a very cheerful & informative. Had plenty of time to wander about. Ambleside just i remember too. Hope to do some more trips in the near future.
Date of experience : August 25, 2024
It was easy to book,staff very…
It was easy to book,staff very helpful,I had to phone back as I had forgotten to ask something & was very good at helping me sort it out 🙂
Date of experience : August 17, 2024
Chester and Liverpool
The hotel was The Ibis Haydock. Fab hotel. Immaculate, great staff and food was lovely too. The trips to Chester and Liverpool were great. Met some lovely people on the coach.. The down side was around 7 females at the rear of the coach drinking alcohol, shouting and swearing and playing music from there phone loudly. They should have hired a mini bus as they had no respect for other passengers on the coach. One dropped a cup of hot coffee all over the rear of the coach. They attended dinner on Saturday evening with their alcohol in those large water bottles and they told the staff they didn't like anything on the menu so chef made them something different and they still did not like it. When people were departing at Hamilton 2 of these females got off for a cigarette and the driver told them no they ignored the driver and stood at the side of the coach at stance 15 in Hamilton Bus Station and smoked their cigarette. You cannot smoke at this part of the bus station. What I did do when I got home was by an amazon tablet and ear plugs so I do not have to listen to that rabble again
Addressed needs of group booking
Addressed the needs of the group when booking our day trip. Our requests were met and exceeded out expectations.
Date of experience : August 22, 2024
Uninformative driver , 270 mins to get to destination....bedroom in Blackpool disgusting room 538 ( tiny ) ,,bathroom light full of flies etc , crumbs and bits of cheese under bed. In norbreck .
Peebles and Moffat day trip
Nice trip but would be helpful if driver could give some local information about the places we were stopping at and places of interest we passed through.
Date of experience : August 24, 2024
Went to Scotland and had a lovely trip.
Went to Scotland and had a lovely trip. Coach was very comfortable and the driver was very courteous and informative. The Adamton country house hotel was a nice place to relax after a long day and the staff were really nice. Will be back.
Date of experience : June 17, 2024
The hotel is too far away plus very…
The hotel is too far away plus very high up from the main place, my daughter has walking difficulties and the hotels proximity is no good for her or anyone else in the same position. The food served at evening meal was inedible, breakfast was ok. We were only there one night and to be told we would be picked up to go home at 12.00 then the bus turn up at 1.30. that's a disgrace, we should have been picked up at about 3-4 pm to make it worth our while. It would take a good few hours to get to Scarborough and back so we had nowhere to go but just wait in hotel on our second day. A pure waste of time
The fact they contacted to tell me I…
The fact they contacted to tell me I could have my request for sea view room upgraded for £20 really appreciated that they had listened to my request
Date of experience : August 15, 2024
Easy to book online
Easy to book online, deposit paid and details sent to allow payment of balance in due course. Seats selected.
Date of experience : August 16, 2024
Mixed review
Driver was fab. Portpatrick was fab,Dumfries House and Farmers Market was fab Adamton Coutry Hotel not so fab. Clean but food was disgusting,some of the staff were rude and charge of £7.50 for Internet was excessive.
Had problems booking on line,got…
Had problems booking on line,got payement section &got no further,had to ring my local office to book with, they were very helpful & got my booked
Date of experience : August 14, 2024
Glad to be going again with Caledonian…
Glad to be going again with Caledonian although the very next day the holiday was dropped in price 😢
Date of experience : August 27, 2024
LGBT friendly
Excellent service and as always I was treated well by the Middlesbrough staff as an out and somewhat obvious gay man this is important to me as I am not always treated as nicely.
The coach was on time lovely journey…
The coach was on time lovely journey with stops. The hotel was lovely. Food gorgeous. Lovely balcony upgraded room. I would of given 5 stars but just I little niggle. The coach driver was very unfriendly and unapproachable treated us like kids. But everything else was lovely. Just get some happier coach drivers.
Date of experience : August 18, 2024
Torquay with Caledonian travel
Brilliant coach driver, fabulous hotel with great food and staff. We’ve booked two more holidays for next year already.
Date of experience : August 05, 2024
First rep I spoke to very helpful when…
First rep I spoke to very helpful when I went back to ask a question the 2nd rep said we are far to busy at the moment sounding very short as I have booked many holidays through Caledonian that was the first time I had that response
Date of experience : August 19, 2024
The salesman was very knowledgeable on…
The salesman was very knowledgeable on where I wanted to go and nothing was to much trouble for him brilliant company !!!
New Caledonia Tours & Vacations
![caledonia travel Shallow coral reef with a green sea turtle and fishes underwater, New Caledonia, south Pacific ocean](https://www.intrepidtravel.com/v3/assets/blt0de87ff52d9c34a8/blt4dcc5f00f198a4c0/652639a033706fb954d3e39d/Intrepid-travel--shutterstock_678187615-2560-Shallow_coral_reef_with_a_green_sea_turtle_and_fishes_underwater_New_Caledonia_south_Pacific_oceanShallow_Coral_Reef_With_A_Green_Sea_Turtle_And_Fishes.jpg?branch=prd&width=75&quality=35&blur=1&format=pjpg&auto=webp)
Diverse experiences await on an island that combines French flair with South-Pacific culture.
Welcome to New Caledonia, where tropical vacations can be so much more than relaxing by the hotel pool with a cocktail in hand – think hiking through endemic rainforests, snorkeling over coral reefs teeming with brightly colored fish, and walking along beaches that sparkle under the sun. From exploring the country’s diverse mountainous landscapes to learning about local culture from Kanak tribe members, our tours on this island paradise promise memorable adventures you can’t get anywhere else.
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New Caledonia at a glance
Capital city.
Pacific Franc (CPF)
UTC+11:00 (Noumea)
CALLING CODE
Electricity.
Type C (European 2-pin), Type E, Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
Learn more about New Caledonia
Best time to visit new caledonia.
There's plenty to keep you busy in New Caledonia regardless of the month you're traveling in, however, the peak season runs from December-January and from July-August, coinciding with the Australian school holidays. However, traveling in December, January, and February will bring extremely warm and humid weather so if you want to avoid that, the shoulder months of May-June, and September-October are also good options.
Geography and environment
New Caledonia's climate is considered to be tropical with southeast trade winds and levels of humidity affecting weather patterns and temperatures throughout the year. This means that New Caledonia also experiences a cyclone season from November-March.
The terrain in New Caledonia is mostly made up of coastal plains (being situated in the South Pacific) with interior mountain ranges but it does face environmental issues such as erosion from mining exploitation and forest fires.
Festival and events
New Caledonia isn't short on festivals and trust us when we say, this island nation knows exactly how to celebrate. Here are some of our favorite festivals to dip your toes into South Pacific culture:
1. French cheese festival
With a focus on celebrating French flavors and traditional cuisine, the French cheese festival is held in two of Noumea's best hotels (Le Meridian and the Sheraton) every June and features over 130 different cheeses for you to sample alongside a glass of your favorite wine.
2. Francofolies
Another French celebration that's been adopted in New Caledonia is Francofolies - a 3-day festival in September that's designed to appreciate French music and language. While its origin comes from a festival of the same name in France, Francofolies also ties in South Pacific culture with a host of local talent showcasing their skills, as well as a bunch of international artists for you to listen to.
New Caledonia travel FAQs
Do you need a visa to visit new caledonia.
Whether you need a visa to travel to New Caledonia depends on which country you're a national of, with passport holders from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, Japan and France generally being exempt from requiring a visa. However, there is still some documentation you need to present before being let into the country, such as a valid passport, proof of return flight, and travel insurance.
If you're from a country that hasn't been listed, you'll likely need to apply for a visa to New Caledonia before your intended date of arrival into the country.
This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 14 December 2022
What's the weather like in New Caledonia?
There are two distinct seasons in New Caledonia: a hot and rainy season from December to March and a cold and dry season from June to September, which makes up the island country's tropical climate. During the hot season, temperatures average around 30/32°C but can climb as high as 35°C with the humidity also making it uncomfortable to spend long periods of time outside. You can also expect heavy rainfall during this time, although it doesn't tend to last for too long unless there's a tropical storm. The cold season sees temperatures average at around 20°C while remaining relatively dry.
What do I pack for New Caledonia?
What to pack for New Caledonia largely depends on what time of the year you travel in, but because it's a tropical destination, packing plenty of t-shirts, dresses, short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and skirts is a safe bet.
Make sure to pack clothes that are made from light, breathable clothing because it can get warm and humid in New Caledonia during the summer.
You should also pack appropriate sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you plan on spending a considerable amount of time in the sun. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit!
How to get to New Caledonia
It's relatively easy to get to New Caledonia as there are several options available including catching a plane or arriving via boat. Flying to New Caledonia is the easiest and most time-efficient way to travel, especially if you're flying from Australia's east coast with plenty of direct flights arriving into and departing daily from La Tontouta Airport in Noumea.
What to eat in New Caledonia
New Caledonian cuisine is heavy on both seafood and flavor, so you can expect traditional dishes to be tasty and packed with local produce. With a combination of both Melanesian and French influences, you're guaranteed to want seconds of everything you eat. Here are some of our favorite dishes:
- Bougna (a stew-like dish made of chicken, lobster or fish and served with root vegetables).
- Plenty of seafood, including coconut crab, New Caledonian blue prawns, and oysters
- Civet de Rousette (bat stew)
Are Intrepid's New Caledonia tours accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Eden Reforestation Projects
Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief
World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation
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Winner of the "Best Large Travel Company for Coach Holidays" at the British Travel Awards. Low Deposits. Secure your break with a low deposit. We've been operating for over 30 years and we're here to stay. Peace of mind from only £9.95 including COVID-19 travel insurance. Coaches offer one of the most environmentally friendly ways to ...
Find fantastic value holidays by coach to various destinations in the UK with Caledonian Travel. Book online with low deposits, secure payment and award-winning service.
Caledonian Travel 2024 Holidays by Coach. Caledonian Travel 2024 holidays include an expanded range of holidays to Ireland and in mainland Europe as well as holidays in Spain. You will be able to experience some great events around the country. Enjoy great British 2024 events like the Grand National, the Cheltenham Festival and the F1 British Grand Prix.
Book a coach holiday in Britain with Caledonian Travel and enjoy a variety of destinations, events and excursions. Find low deposits, secure payments and award-winning service for your break.
Caledonian Travel Departs From: Glasgow, Tyneside, Teesside, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire. Caledonian Travel is one of the UK's leading coach holiday companies, offering sensational value short breaks & holidays throughout the UK, Ireland, and Europe, with 1000's of breaks under £100. The company operates over 70 high-quality ...
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Caledonian Travel. 145,441 likes · 3,887 talking about this. For sensational value, award-winning short breaks and holidays by coach, visit www.caledonian.com!
Caledonian Travel is proud to be the UK's leading provider of short breaks and holidays by coach and has been a much-loved name in Scotland for more than 30 years. Caledonian Travel offers a sensational range of fantastic value short breaks and holidays by coach, direct from many departure points across Scotland, the North of England, and ...
Unlock 2021 with Caledonian Travel. GAwxB.com. ZIAKrVK3if3H5zuTF91g2TgJ. NEW BROCHURES AVAILABLE NOW! We're delighted to announce that all brochures are now available and are ready to send out as soon as you request a copy! The response we've had from you all so far has been overwhelming, thank you!
Caledonian Travel are one of the largest operators of short breaks & holidays by coach in the UK with over 30 years experience in delivering holidays to hundreds of thousands of holiday makers. With a superb collection of short breaks and holidays now departing from Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire our "Pride of Lions" and our ...
Coach holidays to Scotland with Caledonian Travel. Our coach breaks to Scotland include varied excursions such as scenic tours, time in idyllic locations and trips to shopping outlets for those that love a bit of retail therapy. With a range of departures from Newcastle, Leeds, Sundeland and more, all our breaks include coach travel with ...
Stay flexible when you travel around New Caledonia. Don't plan too much. Flexibility will save you a lot of trouble during a trip to New Caledonia. It's not surprising to have your domestic flight time changed only a couple of days before flying. Most of the time, it is due to the weather.
MAKE AND BOOK YOUR TRAVEL ELSEWHERE. Aug 2024 • Family. This company is a total waste of time, money and space, We booked a weekend trip for Saturday 10;08 2024, to visit London for sight-seeing. We were notified, by Caledonian to be at our local interchange for 07.30 hrs.
We will definitely travel with Caledonian Travel in the future and, once again, we wish to thank Walter for adding just that little bit extra to an already brilliant holiday. Read more. Written February 18, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as ...
Hiring A Car To Get Around. The best way to get around New Caledonia is by hiring a car. It definitely makes sense if you want to explore the main island of New Caledonia, Grande Terre. If you didn't know it yet, but New Caledonia actually has five main islands: Ouvea, Lifou, Mare, Isle of Pines and Grande Terre, the biggest island where the ...
At Caledonian Travel, we offer an award-winning of fantastic short coach breaks. Whether you're looking for a short break or long weekend escape to the seaside, the serenity of the countryside or a vibrant city getaway. Caledonian has you covered with plenty of choices across Britain to pick from.
Mystery trip so worth the money. Review of Caledonian Travel. Reviewed 20 September 2023. Booked the mystery mid week trip last minute and got the last 2 seats had a full coach load of lovely chatty people and we went to Dundee and then onto St Andrews , both stops were lovely and our driver Louise was just great such a friendly and informative ...
Caledonian Travel are one of the largest operators of short breaks & holidays by coach in the UK with over 30 years experience in delivering holidays to hundreds of thousands of holiday makers. With a superb collection of short breaks and holidays now departing from Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire our "Pride of Lions" and our ...
Enjoy short breaks and holidays to Europe by coach with Caledonian Travel. Choose from a variety of destinations, including Germany, Austria, Italy, Holland and Disneyland Paris.
Caledonia Travel must have been aware of the poor online reviews for the Brittania Hotel yet continued to use it for overnight trips to the Edinburgh Tattoo. Coaches cannot park directly outside the Brittania Hotel! We witnessed people struggling to climb the hill to the coach due to mobility issues and breathing difficulties.
Departing from Glasgow, Hamilton & Paisley. Fri 26th Aug | Sat 24th Sept | Sun 2nd Oct | Sat 15th Oct. £10 Low Deposit. Coach travel with reserved seating. Four nights dinner, bed and breakfast hotel accommodation. Scenic journey around the northern coast of Scotland following the famous NC500 route.
Enjoy a variety of holiday destinations across England with Caledonian Travel, the award-winning coach holiday specialist. Choose from historic cities, seaside resorts, scenic countryside and more, with coach travel, hotel accommodation and excursions included.
New Caledonia Adventure. Prudence · Traveled July 2022. A wonderful trip discovering the real New Caledonia - coral reefs and turtles, well organised National parks for walking and mountain biking, beautiful rainforests and Kanak and French culture and food. Much more than just cocktails by the resort pool!