©The promenade at Anse-Vata Nouméa|Terres de Lumière / NCT

Getting around

New Caledonia

New Caledonia, encompassing Grande Terre, the Isle of Pines, and the Loyalty Islands, offers a plethora of transportation options for your convenience. Whether it’s rental cars, taxis, private drivers, shuttles, coaches, flights, or ferry crossings, you’ll find everything you need to move around comfortably.

Getting around

©Seaside road in New Caledonia|Dean Cropp - Access All Angles / NCT

Getting to The Islands

By plane

Flying is undoubtedly the quickest way to reach the islands. In Nouméa, Magenta aerodrome hosts the local domestic airline, Air Calédonie, which operates multiple daily flights to the Isle of Pines or the main Loyalty Islands (Maré, Lifou, Ouvéa). For inter-Loyalty Islands flights (taking between 25 and 35 minutes from Lifou), Air Loyauté provides regular services.

©Plane to Nouméa-Magenta aerodrome|Marine Reveilhac / NCT

©Crossing aboard the Betico 2|Betico NC / NCT

By boat

For sea enthusiasts or budget-conscious travellers, consider taking the Betico 2, a high-speed vessel, to the Isle of Pines, Maré, or Lifou. Visit www.betico.nc for schedules and fares.

Getting around the region

Renting a car is an excellent way to explore New Caledonia. The road network is generally in great condition, and unless you plan to traverse steep tracks, a 4×4 isn’t necessary.

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What you need to know

Fuel prices are strictly regulated. Regardless of whether you refuel at a hypermarket in Nouméa or a remote bush service station, the price per litre remains consistent. This is a significant advantage. However, it’s wise to be mindful on Sundays or certain public holidays when finding an open station, especially in the North or on the East Coast, can be more challenging.

For an exotic and enchanting way to reach New Caledonia’s nearby islets, consider taxi-boats. These operate in Nouméa and the bush, providing access to paradise islets. It’s a must for any stay in this beautiful archipelago. Several private operators are available in locations such as Nouméa, Bourail, Boulouparis, La Foa, Poindimié, Poum, the Isle of Pines, and more.

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From La Tontouta international airport to Nouméa

©Parking at Nouméa - La Tontouta international airport|Marine Reveilhac / NCT

If you’re arranging your stay in New Caledonia and not renting a vehicle upon arrival, consider booking a shuttle to your accommodation in Nouméa. Many private companies offer this service at competitive rates. Some well-known options include Les Mouettes, Arc en Ciel, Go Shuttle, and Allo Transports.

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Getting around Nouméa

©Scooter in Nouméa|Marine Reveilhac / NCT

On foot, by bike or by cab

In Nouméa, you can explore much of the city on foot or hop on the tchou tchou train that navigates the most tourist-friendly areas. For longer distances, you can hire a taxi (Tel +687 28 35 12) or rent a two-wheeler or bicycle.

By bus

Nouméa and Greater Nouméa have an extensive bus network, Tanéo. This network offers numerous routes to Nouméa, Dumbéa, Païta, and Mont-Dore.