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Tiendanite tribe homestayTiendanite, New Caledonia

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Opt out of Noumea's fancy hotels and expensive restaurants and head north to immerse yourself in Kanak culture by staying with a local tribe for a night. Situated about a 30 minute-drive from the busy hum of the seaside village, Hienghène, the Tiendanite tribe is nestled out in the wilderness and it's a sight to behold.

You'll be greeted by your host, Bernard, among a tangled mess of green towering trees and blooming taro bushes, bright pink bougainvillea and clusters of fat yellow pamplemousse (grapefruit). The accommodation is a small wooden cabin, furnished with twin mattresses on the floor, and fitted with a power point and a single light. It's quaint but comfortable, and the disconnect from your usual creature comforts frees up time to enjoy your lush surrounds.

Sit down to a feast of locally sourced food for dinner – think fish caught straight from the river and homegrown vegetables. During the day, discover the history of the Tiendanite tribe on a walk around the grounds with Bernard, learn to fish for freshwater prawns or master the art of harvesting yams.

love
not sure?

Being welcomed into the community and looked after by your host, Bernard, and his family
Immersing yourself in Kanak culture – whether that be learning to fish for freshwater prawns or mastering the art of harvesting yams
The lush forest, where the outside world will feel a million miles away

The lack of tech facilities
The isolation – unless you’ve hired a car, you’ll have to stay within the tribe lands
The language barrier – English isn’t commonly spoken

get there

Aircalin flies direct to Noumea from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
aircalin.com

amenities

Twin beds with fresh sheets and pillows
Power points

Separate toilet and shower block

price guide

We highly recommend swapping your traditional hotel for a tribal homestay while travelling in the Northern Province of New Caledonia. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the Kanak people and immerse yourself in their culture and the lush wilderness they call home. Stays include accommodation in a modest cabin, dinner and breakfast, and start from around 1,750 CFP (about US$16)

contact

Office du Tourisme de Hienghène
hienghene-tourisme.nc

need to know

Many Kanak people don’t speak English, so if you know French (or are willing to learn) you’re in luck! If you don’t and sign language doesn’t appeal to you, then consider hiring a local guide who can translate for you. Tour companies Arc en Ciel and Toutazimut have English-speaking guides who can accompany you on your tribal homestay.
arcenciel-voyages.nc
toutazimut.nc

Ready to go?

Tags: hiking, new caledonia

been here? what did you think?

get there

Aircalin flies direct to Noumea from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
aircalin.com

love

Being welcomed into the community and looked after by your host, Bernard, and his family
Immersing yourself in Kanak culture – whether that be learning to fish for freshwater prawns or mastering the art of harvesting yams
The lush forest, where the outside world will feel a million miles away

not sure?

The lack of tech facilities
The isolation – unless you’ve hired a car, you’ll have to stay within the tribe lands
The language barrier – English isn’t commonly spoken