+ 10 h / +9 h during our summer time

Nouméa

Official language

French

Language capabilities

English

220 volt; 2-pronged round plug / adapter required for 3-pronged plug

Banks

7.30 am – 3.45/4.00 pm (Mon – Fri)
Opening hours may vary slightly between regions. Some banks in Nouméa may have slightly different opening hours.

Shops

8.00 am – 6.00 pm (Mon – Fri)
8.00 am – 12 noon (Sat)

Opening hours may vary slightly depending on the region and type of shop. Some shops stay open longer on Saturdays. Shops are generally closed on Sundays, although supermarkets and smaller shops may open in the morning, until around noon.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Nouvel An)
• Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques)
• 1 May: Labour Day (Fête du Travail)
• 8 May: Victory Day (Victoire 1945)
• Date varies in May or June: Ascension Day (Ascension)
• Date varies in May or June: Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte)
• 14 July: French National Day (Fête nationale)
• 15 August: Assumption of Mary
• 24 September: Citizenship Day (Fête de la Citoyenneté)
• 1 November: All Saints’ Day (Toussaint)
• 11 November: Armistice Day 1918 (Armistice 1918)
• 25 December: Christmas Day (Noël)

New Caledonia is part of France but has its own entry requirements. The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland:

• Swiss passport: it must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date, have been issued within the past 10 years and contain at least two blank pages.
• Visa: Swiss citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, a visa must generally be obtained in advance.
• Other supporting documents: have a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and evidence of sufficient funds ready. Also check the entry and transit requirements of any countries you travel through on your way to New Caledonia.

• Vaccinations: a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you arrive within 6 days of leaving a country with a risk of yellow fever. Exceptions apply, including for children under one year of age and certain transit passengers. Further information is available on the HealthyTravel website.

Information last updated in October 2026

Coastal regions and islands, including Nouméa and the Île des Pins

• Summer, December to March: daytime temperatures are usually between 28 and 30°C, occasionally higher. High humidity and heavy rainfall characterise this season. Tropical cyclones may occur.
• Winter, June to September: daytime temperatures are usually between 20 and 25°C. Conditions are less humid, although showers are also possible during these months.
• Spring/autumn, October to November and April to May: daytime temperatures often reach around 25 to 27°C. October and November are usually dry and sunny. Heavier rainfall may still occur in April and May.

Central mountain regions of Grande Terre

• Summer: the altitude makes it cooler than on the coast. Heavy rainfall and low cloud are possible.
• Winter: days are mild to cool, while nights can be very cold at higher elevations. Warm clothing is essential for hiking and overnight stays.
• Spring/autumn: conditions are changeable, with pleasant daytime temperatures and cool nights. Spring becomes progressively drier and warmer.

The ideal time to visit New Caledonia

• Beach holidays: October to December. These months offer warm temperatures and good conditions for spending time at the beach. October and November in particular are often sunny and relatively dry. Humidity and the likelihood of rain increase in December; tropical weather disturbances are already possible.
• City breaks: May to September. Pleasant temperatures and generally lower humidity make walks and cultural activities in Nouméa particularly enjoyable. Allow for occasional showers.

• Mobile phones: using your Swiss mobile plan may incur high roaming charges. Before travelling, check your provider’s terms and available data packages.
• Wi-Fi: many hotels, cafés and restaurants offer Wi-Fi. Free public access is available at locations including airports, tourist information centres and the cruise terminal in Nouméa. Connection speeds and availability may be limited outside larger towns.
• Prepaid SIM cards: Helia by OPT-NC offers prepaid packages for calls and mobile data. These are available online, at OPT branches and from partner shops. eSIMs are also available for compatible smartphones.

• Amédée Lighthouse, off Nouméa: this historic lighthouse stands on a small island in the lagoon. The top offers far-reaching views over the reef and the coast of Grande Terre.

• Lagoons of New Caledonia, UNESCO World Heritage Site: six selected marine areas form part of this natural World Heritage Site. They protect an exceptional diversity of coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds, as well as habitats for turtles and dugongs.

• Île des Pins, south-east of Grande Terre: the island is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise bays and distinctive columnar araucaria trees. Highlights include Upi Bay and the natural seawater pool at Oro.

• Tjibaou Cultural Centre, Nouméa: this striking cultural centre combines contemporary architecture with forms inspired by traditional Kanak houses. Exhibitions and events offer insights into Kanak culture and the arts of the Pacific.

• Parc Provincial de la Rivière Bleue, Yaté: red earth, forests and the drowned forest in the Yaté reservoir define this nature park. Hikes and guided birdwatching trips reveal its distinctive wildlife and plant life.

• Cœur de Voh, Voh: this heart-shaped clearing in the mangrove is one of New Caledonia’s best-known landscapes. Sightseeing flights in microlights or gyrocopters, as well as viewpoints on Mont Katepaï, offer different perspectives.

• La Roche Percée and Bonhomme de Bourail, Bourail: this coastal landscape is known for its long beach and the distinctive rock formation called the “Bonhomme”. The nearby Baie des Tortues complements a visit.

• Poule Couveuse and Sphinx, Hienghène: these striking limestone formations are among the landmarks of the east coast. They have particular significance in Kanak culture and must not be set foot on.

• Port Moselle Market, Nouméa: local fruit, vegetables, fish and handicrafts are sold beneath the blue roofs of the municipal market. Early morning is a particularly good time to experience daily life in the capital.

• Kuto and Kanuméra Bays, Île des Pins: these neighbouring bays combine pale sandy beaches with peaceful views over the lagoon. Respect local guidance and the cultural significance of Kanuméra’s sacred rock.

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• Bougna: this traditional Kanak dish consists of meat or fish, yams, taro and other ingredients with coconut milk. Traditionally, it is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven.
• Fish and seafood: tuna, mahi-mahi, prawns and spiny lobsters play an important role. Depending on the dish, they are grilled, pan-fried or served raw.
• Salade tahitienne: a popular fish salad with coconut milk, prepared differently by different cooks and families.
• Venison dishes: venison is prepared in dishes including marinated salads or with soy sauce and is one of the typical local specialities.
• Coconut crab: this speciality, also known as the robber crab, is served particularly in the Loyalty Islands.
• Bulimes: these large land snails are among the well-known specialities of the Île des Pins.
• Tropical fruit: depending on the season, mangoes, lychees, passion fruit and other local fruit feature on the menu.
• Yams and taro: these starchy tubers are important ingredients in traditional cooking. Yams in particular also have considerable cultural significance.
• French and Asian influences: bakeries and French-style restaurants are as much a part of the food culture as spring rolls, bami and other dishes of Asian origin.
• Kava: this drink made from the root of the kava plant is served in establishments known as nakamals. These usually simple venues are places to meet and socialise.

• Greetings: a friendly “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” is part of polite behaviour. Greetings are also appreciated when entering small shops or meeting people in rural areas.
• Politeness: “S’il vous plaît” and “Merci” show appreciation. Take time to interact with people and respect local customs.
• Clothing: lightweight clothing is suitable for the tropical climate. When visiting traditional villages, modest clothing covering the shoulders and knees is appropriate.
• Visiting Kanak communities: ask your host or guide about local rules in advance. A visit may include the “coutume”: a respectful introduction, often accompanied by a small gift.
• Photography and access: ask permission before photographing people or entering customary or private land. Respect sacred sites and access restrictions.
• Tipping: tipping is not customary and is generally not expected.
• Smoking: observe smoking and vaping bans in shared public spaces. Use only designated smoking areas and observe any additional local restrictions.

• Drinking water: tap water is generally safe to drink in Nouméa and other larger towns. In remote areas and after heavy rain, check water quality locally and use bottled or boiled water if necessary.
• Vaccinations: before travelling, check that your vaccinations are up to date in accordance with the Swiss vaccination schedule. Hepatitis A vaccination is also recommended. Note any yellow fever entry requirements that may apply.
• Mosquito-borne diseases: dengue, chikungunya and Zika may occur. Protect yourself during the day and at dusk as well, using suitable insect repellent and clothing that covers your skin. Dengue vaccination may be appropriate for certain travellers; seek advice from a travel medicine specialist.
• Swimming in inland waters: the risk of leptospirosis increases after heavy rain. Avoid contact with muddy water and flooded areas.
• Sun protection: use sunscreen with a high protection factor, wear a hat and drink plenty of water.

• Medical care in New Caledonia is available in larger cities such as Nouméa, with modern hospitals and qualified staff. Facilities are more limited in remote areas and on the islands, so serious cases often require evacuation to Nouméa. Travel medical insurance is strongly recommended, as financial guarantees or advance payments are often required.
• If you rely on particular medicines, carry an adequate supply in your travel medical kit. Bear in mind that many countries have special rules on bringing in medicines containing controlled drugs, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, contact the relevant foreign embassy or consulate directly before travelling.

• Keep informed about the situation before and during your trip and stay in contact with your tour operator.
• Political tensions: since the serious unrest in May 2024, there remains a risk of protests at short notice and violent incidents. Avoid demonstrations, large gatherings and roadblocks.
• Restrictions: authorities may impose traffic restrictions or curfews at short notice. Protests and strikes may disrupt roads, public transport and flights. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Crime: vehicle theft, theft from cars and burglaries occur. Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle and lock your accommodation.
• Swimming safety: serious shark attacks have occurred in New Caledonia. Observe local swimming bans, warning flags and instructions from rescue personnel. Choose supervised swimming areas with appropriate protective measures.
• Natural hazards: tropical cyclones, floods, bushfires, earthquakes and tsunamis are possible. Check weather warnings and local evacuation instructions.

Information last updated in October 2026

• Driving licence: the Swiss driving licence is recognised. However, obtaining an international driving permit before departure is strongly recommended. It is valid locally only when accompanied by your national driving licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: the minimum driver age is between 21 and 25, depending on the rental company and vehicle category. Some rental companies also require drivers to have held their licence for at least one year.

• Traffic rules: drive on the right.

• Buses: Tanéo buses operate in Nouméa and the surrounding municipalities. Routes and timetables may change. Check the Tanéo website before travelling. Services are more limited outside Greater Nouméa.
• Tickets: depending on the service, single tickets and reloadable travel cards are available. Check with the transport operator for current sales outlets and payment methods.
• Taxis: book journeys in advance where possible, especially airport transfers and trips outside peak hours.
• Inter-island connections: the islands are linked by air and sea services. Air Calédonie moved its flights from Magenta to La Tontouta in 2026. Some services operated by other carriers still depart from Magenta. The Betico 2 catamaran serves the Île des Pins and the Loyalty Islands according to the current timetable. Before travelling, check the actual departure point and any service interruptions.

There are no direct flights from Switzerland, departing from Zurich, Geneva or Basel, to New Caledonia. All connections require one or more stopovers, often in Paris, Tokyo, Singapore or Sydney. The main airports in New Caledonia are:

• La Tontouta International Airport (NOU), Nouméa: the main airport for international flights. Connections involve stopovers from Paris or other international hubs such as Tokyo, Singapore or Sydney.
• Magenta Domestic Airport (GEA), Nouméa: the airport for domestic flights to the islands and remote regions of New Caledonia.

The main airlines operating in New Caledonia are Aircalin, Qantas, Air New Zealand, Air Vanuatu and Air Tahiti Nui.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• Police: 17
• Ambulance: 15
• Fire brigade: 18

Swiss Embassy in Paris, France
Ambassade de Suisse
142, rue de Grenelle
75007 Paris
France

Tel.: +33 1 49 55 67 00
Email: paris@eda.admin.ch

The Swiss Embassy in Paris is responsible for consular matters in New Caledonia.

Swiss Honorary Consulate in Nouméa
Consulat de Suisse à Nouméa
4 rue Arthur Rimbaud
98835 Dumbéa
New Caledonia

Tel.: +687 27 77 93
Email: noumea@honrep.ch

The honorary consulate falls within the consular district of the Swiss Embassy in Paris. According to the FDFA, all correspondence must be sent through the embassy.