Kayaking the Drowned Forest in New Caledonia is a surreal experience where paddlers navigate through the skeletal remains of ancient paperbark trees submerged in the Yaté Reservoir. Located within the Blue River Provincial Park, this unique landscape offers a hauntingly beautiful, calm-water environment perfect for eco-tourism and photography enthusiasts seeking adventure.
What is the Drowned Forest (Forêt Noyée)?
The Drowned Forest, known locally as the Forêt Noyée, is one of New Caledonia’s most iconic and ethereal natural landmarks. Situated in the heart of the Parc Provincial de la Rivière Bleue (Blue River Provincial Park), this landscape was created not by nature alone, but by a combination of human engineering and the resilience of the local flora. When the Yaté Dam was constructed in 1958 to provide hydroelectric power to the island, the rising waters of the artificial lake flooded a vast valley of paperbark trees (Melaleuca quinquenervia).
Unlike most trees that would rot away quickly, these specific paperbarks possess a high oil content and a unique bark structure that allowed their trunks to remain standing for over six decades. Today, thousands of bleached, silver-white trunks rise from the deep blue water, creating a graveyard-like forest that is both haunting and majestic. For travelers from New Zealand, who are used to the lush green forests of the North Island, the stark contrast of the white wood against the red iron-rich soil and turquoise water of New Caledonia is a visual revelation.
The geological makeup of the region adds another layer of intrigue. The soil in the Blue River Park is exceptionally rich in minerals, particularly iron and magnesium, which gives it a vibrant deep red hue. This soil, known as laterite, does not support typical tropical rainforest growth, leading to the evolution of many endemic species that can only be found in this specific corner of the South Pacific. Kayaking through the Drowned Forest allows you to get up close to these geological and botanical wonders in a way that no land-based tour can provide.
Full moon kayaking tours
While daytime paddling is spectacular, the most coveted experience in the Blue River Provincial Park is the full moon kayaking tour. These tours are highly exclusive, occurring only a few nights each month when the moon is at its brightest. Navigating the Drowned Forest by moonlight transforms the landscape into something out of a science fiction film. The silver bark of the trees reflects the lunar glow, and the absolute silence of the park at night creates an atmosphere of profound tranquility.
Why the Full Moon Experience is Unique
During a full moon tour, the usual sounds of the park—the calls of the Cagou bird or the rustle of lizards—give way to a heavy, peaceful stillness. The water becomes a mirror, reflecting the stars and the moon so clearly that it can feel like you are floating through space. Professional guides lead these excursions, ensuring safety while providing insights into the nocturnal ecosystem of the park. Most tours begin at dusk, allowing participants to witness a fiery South Pacific sunset over the Yaté Reservoir before the moon takes center stage.
Booking and Availability
Because these tours are dependent on lunar cycles and weather conditions, they often book out weeks or even months in advance. New Zealand travelers planning a trip to New Caledonia should check the lunar calendar and coordinate with local operators like Sud Loisirs well before their departure. These tours typically include all necessary gear, including headlamps and safety vests, and often conclude with a traditional shared meal or refreshments by the water’s edge.
Rental options in Blue River Park
For those who prefer a self-guided adventure or cannot make the full moon dates, daytime kayak rentals are readily available and provide a flexible way to explore the Yaté Reservoir at your own pace. The primary operator within the park is Sud Loisirs, situated at the Pont Pérignon (Perignon Bridge), which serves as the gateway to the Drowned Forest.
Kayak Types and Pricing
Visitors can choose from single or double sit-on-top kayaks. These are chosen for their stability, making them ideal for beginners and families. As of the current season, rental prices are approximately 2,000 to 3,000 CFP (Central Pacific Franc) per hour, with discounted rates for half-day or full-day rentals. Given the proximity of New Caledonia to New Zealand (just a 2.5-hour flight from Auckland), many Kiwis find the pricing comparable to high-end adventure activities in Queenstown or Rotorua.
Navigation and Safety
Upon renting your gear, you will be provided with a map of the reservoir. The Drowned Forest is located just a short paddle from the launch point at Pont Pérignon. It is important to stay within the designated zones, as the reservoir is vast and it is easy to lose track of time while photographing the trees. The water is generally very calm, but the sun can be intense; paddlers are advised to wear high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses to cut through the glare on the water.
Combining kayaking with hiking and biking
The Blue River Provincial Park is a massive 9,000-hectare reserve, and the Drowned Forest is just one of its many highlights. To make the most of a day trip from Nouméa, many visitors opt for a multi-sport itinerary that combines kayaking with hiking or mountain biking. This allows you to see the