Isle of Pines belongs to New Caledonia… It is famous for its white beaches and tall araucaria trees. I have been on this island some15 years ago, but this was rainy day and I did not see much wondering around with umbrella. Today we were lucky to have sunny weather. Mount N’ga – the highest mountain on the island (262 m above sea level) was visible even from the ship. I said to myself: -There must be nice view from the top, so this is my main target for today!
When I disembarked from the second tender the group of local Kunia tribe was dancing and singing at the jetty. 5 or 6 minibuses were offering the tour of the island for 25 $ pp. I started walk heading to the north. At Kuberka I turned to the path, entering dense forest with waterholes. After some 20 minutes I found myself on the open slope. The stoney path became steep. It is worth to wear good hiking shoes (due to the lack of info I had a sandals). First great view was from the little pass on the ridge. After an hour of hiking I reached the cross at the top of the mountain. There is great panoramic view of the southern and western part of the island! Definitely worth the effort and sweat… Back down I was walking to the ruins of the prison (Ile des Pins was a penal colony till 1911 – it reminds me similar institution I saw in French Guyana)!
Communards cemetary, Vao, St Maurice and finally – Baie St Joseph with traditional pirogues… After 3 pm friendly Kunia – Paul gave me the lift back to the jetty in Kuto Bay.
