Hienghene
Hienghene, which is located on the east coast, is one of the main towns in New Caledonia. Its history has a colonial touch. It is famous for its amazing and unique landscapes and is a paradise for hikers and divers alike. Today the region has adopted tourism as its vocation – with professional guides and many tribes that welcome visitors.
Must do:
Ouaieme river ferry
This is the last surviving river ferryboat of its sort in New Caledonia. It crosses the river day and night and is free. Various taboos surround the mystery of why no bridge has been built!
Tao waterfall
A sign shows you the way up to the waterfall. You can swim in the pool which is nearby or you can walk/climb up the signposted path to the waterfall. Be careful as the rocks are slippery.
Lookout point: The ‘Hen’ and the ‘Sphinx’
Admire the magnificent panoramic view from the lookout point. You can marvel at the whole of the Bay of Hienghene – in particular the black ‘Linderalique’ rocks in the shape of a hen and a sphinx.
Sculptors
The tribes of Tao, Tendo, Pindache and Tanghene offer to take you to meet local sculptors to admire their work and you can buy a sculpture if you like. Each one has an important cultural signification.
Hiking
- A 1 ½ hour will take you down to the sea from the summit lookout point.
- You can climb up to the top of the Ga Wivaek hill (2 hours).
- Tao circuit (3 hours). It is necessary to ask the owner of the house at the bottom of the Tao waterfall for permission to cross his garden.
Diving
Hienghene is renowned for its beautiful diving spots:
- Doiman reef: Cathedral / Whale point
- Hienghene Pass : Whale bay / Tidwan
- Hiengu Pass
- Donga Hienga
- Fonti Reef.