The GR® Nord is 86 kilometres long and runs through Ponérihouen, Poindimié and Touho. Two named stages—Tchamba–Saint-Thomas and Saint-Thomas–Pombéï—pass through Poindimié. The route description therefore covers both the trail through three municipalities and specific sections through one of them. Hiking on foot or horseback and scuba diving are considered standout activities in this natural region.
Hiking, Horse Riding and Landscapes
Waterfalls and tropical forests shape the landscape along the east coast of North Province. In Voh, a hike leads to the summit of Mont Katepaï. The western plains are ideal for extended horse rides—another way to experience the landscape, distinct from hiking on foot. The activities are presented side by side: hiking, horse riding and scuba diving are described as special experiences in this natural region.
One striking natural formation is the CĹ“ur de Voh: located near Voh in a mangrove, it is made up of natural vegetation. When planning your journey, take transport connections into account: public transport does not serve the CĹ“ur de Voh, so you will need a rental car or a private guided tour to get there. The Poum lagoon and its reef are listed as a natural site within the UNESCO World Heritage property. The scenic road from Koumac via Poum and Poingam to Boat-Pass runs mostly close to the sea.
By Kayak and on the Water
From Poindimié, you can reach Îlot Tibarama by kayak for a day trip and snorkel there. The islet is just a few minutes by boat from Poindimié. Another kayaking option takes you out to sea or along the Amoa River: the Association Odyssée offers trips with qualified guides. There are spots by the Napoémien River near Poindimié where you can stop for a refreshing break.
These water-based experiences differ in focus: kayaking and snorkelling are mentioned for a day trip to Îlot Tibarama, while the guided trips offered by the Association Odyssée take place at sea or on the Amoa River. This makes it possible to distinguish between the options by location and activity without combining them into a single route.
Markets, Bougna and History
At the Marché de Hienghène, women from the valleys and the village of Hienghène meet on Tuesdays and Fridays to display and sell local produce. The Marché de Poindimié takes place in the town centre on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday mornings. Friday is therefore market day in both places; the other listed days differ. At Hienghène, the focus is on the women sellers and their local produce, while the market in Poindimié is also specifically located in the village centre.
When visiting tribal communities, you can share bougna, a traditional Kanak dish. In the Napoémien tribal community, a guided visit includes the preparation of bougna and introduces visitors to the uses of medicinal plants. This visit takes place only on weekends. It offers a culinary insight alongside the sharing of knowledge about medicinal plants; the weekend schedule applies to the guided visit in Napoémien.
The region’s mining history is also worth discovering: Tiébaghi in Koumac is a former chromium-mining village. The site offers a historical perspective that differs from the region’s present-day nature and cultural experiences.
Discover more destinations: Koumac, Goro, Malabou, Koné, Hienghene, Poindimie, Voh, South Province.
Back to the main travel overview: New Caledonia.
