- From Nouméa~1–1.5 h by car
- Best forHiking, kayaking, nature
- SeasonWhales Jul–Sep
- StayDay trip or 1–2 nights
The Grand Sud is the southern tip of Grande Terre, a plateau of iron-rich red soil, maquis shrubland and lakes. It is the easiest wilderness escape from Nouméa and an excellent day trip.
Highlights
- Parc Provincial de la Rivière Bleue, with the giant Grand Kaori tree, forest trails and one of the best chances to see the kagu, New Caledonia's flightless national bird.
- The drowned forest on Yaté lake, eerie dead trunks rising from the water, best seen by kayak.
- Madeleine Falls, a wide, shallow cascade on the Plaine des Lacs with a short nature trail.
- Prony Bay and the old penal village of Prony, plus the Cap N'Dua viewpoint.
- Humpback whale watching from roughly July to September.
Getting around
You need a car or a guided tour; there is little public transport. Bring water, sun protection and a picnic, as services are sparse. Parts of the GR Sud long-distance trail cross the region if you want to hike for several days.
Stay in Great South
Compare prices and free-cancellation rates.
Top sights in Great South
Rivière Bleue Provincial Park
Rainforest, red-earth trails, the Grand Kaori and the best place to see the kagu.
Read guide →
Madeleine Falls
A wide, gentle cascade surrounded by rare endemic plants on the Plaine des Lacs.
Read guide →Header photo: Photo: Asamboi, CC BY-SA 4.0
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