Things To Do
in Mont-Dore

Small markets and stalls sell tropical fruits (mango, papaya), pastries, grilled seafood and sometimes cooked dishes like bougna—great places to try street food and meet locals.

A short drive away, fish markets offer the freshest catches and often have onsite grills or small vendors preparing simple seafood dishes to eat immediately.

Use French greetings (Bonjour, Bonsoir); a friendly hello and handshake are normal. Showing respect to elders and hosts is important in Kanak communities.

Ask permission before photographing people, homes or cultural sites. If invited to a village or ceremony, follow local leaders’ guidance; modest dress and respectful behavior are expected.

Respect the reef and beaches—do not touch coral, take shells or litter; many local communities prioritize conservation.

French dining customs influence table manners; being punctual for restaurant reservations is polite and tipping is modest.

Tipping is discretionary and not as entrenched as in some other countries. Round up small bills or leave 5–10% for exceptional service in restaurants; tipping taxi drivers and guides is appreciated but not obligatory. For small local vendors and market sellers, cash purchases and polite bargaining are common but tipping is not expected.

The currency is the CFP franc (XPF). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in Mont-Dore’s shops and most restaurants; carry cash for markets, small shops and remote areas. ATMs are available in and around Nouméa; inform your bank about travel to avoid blocked cards.

Moderate ridge hikes with panoramic views over the lagoon and Nouméa—good for sunrise and birdwatching.

Short, accessible trails that reward hikers with sweeping coastal vistas and sunset opportunities; ideal for an easy half-day outing.

Diverse forest hikes featuring blue river sections, endemic flora and sometimes guided nature walks—requires a longer drive but offers a distinctly different landscape from the coast.

Numerous informal trails along the shoreline and between villages—easy to moderate walks with opportunities for photography and beach stops.

Main international gateway for New Caledonia with flights to/from Asia, Australia and metropolitan France via regional hubs—about a 40–60 minute drive from Nouméa depending on traffic; car rental and shuttle services connect to the capital and Mont-Dore.

Closer domestic airport used for inter-island flights and some regional services; convenient for short hops to Loyalty Islands and other domestic destinations.

Indigenous Melanesian peoples who are a significant part of the population and cultural life—maintain strong community ties and traditional practices.

Long-established European-descended residents who contribute to the French cultural and linguistic character of the territory.

Communities from Wallis & Futuna, Polynesia and Asia add cultural diversity, languages and culinary influences.

A smaller expatriate community and tourism-related population drawn by work, business and leisure in the South Province.

Rugby union is very popular across New Caledonia, with strong local club scenes and community support for matches.

Widely played and watched at community and school levels with organized leagues.

Paddle sports and surfing are popular along the coast and on outer reefs, with many locals and clubs involved in traditional and competitive paddling.

Recreational fishing, spearfishing and scuba diving are common leisure activities due to abundant marine life and reef access.

Vegetarian options are available but less ubiquitous; look for salads, vegetable stews, rice and cassava-based sides. In markets and cafés you can often request fish-free plates; in Nouméa restaurants are more likely to offer dedicated vegetarian dishes.

Vegan choices are limited outside larger towns—plan ahead, buy fresh fruit and bread at markets, and ask chefs to adapt dishes (omit dairy/seafood).

Gluten-free options exist but are not guaranteed—communicate needs clearly in French: 'Je suis intolérant(e) au gluten.' Many seafood plates and salads are naturally gluten-free.

Tap water is generally safe in urban areas but many visitors prefer bottled water; eat fresh-cooked food from reputable vendors to reduce risk of stomach upset.