South Pacific

New Caledonia

The world’s second-largest coral reef – after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia – invites snorkellers and divers to enjoy thrilling moments beneath the surface. New Caledonia’s coral reef surrounds the main island of Grande Terre and is just one of many reasons to holiday in this archipelago, which belongs to France yet lies in the middle of the South Pacific. The mountainous landscape forms a charming contrast to lush green forests, meadows and dazzling white sandy beaches. The fascinating culture of the islanders has kept a subtle French touch – something that surprises even those who know the destination well.

Fiji

Fiji is the epitome of the South Pacific: on the main island of Viti Levu, rainforest meets savannah, and along the coast dream beaches give way to true underwater paradises. With its 330 islands, the destination suits every kind of traveller. Whether you want to dive along the Coral Coast, hike the coast at Lavena or relax on the beautiful beaches of Oceania’s finest hotels – Fiji has everything your heart desires.

Tonga

Tonga is different from the other South Pacific islands. It is the only monarchy in the region and almost untouched by colonial influences. The small green islands invite you on excursions and leisurely walks through the wooded countryside. It is not only travellers who feel at home in this remote place: humpback whales also find the peace and quiet they need off Tonga to give birth to their young in late summer and autumn. So don’t be surprised if everything on Tonga moves a little more slowly – or at a more leisurely pace. But who is in a hurry on holiday in the South Pacific?

Vanuatu

Have you ever heard of Vanuatu? This small island nation in the middle of the Pacific is a true paradise. Vanuatu is barely developed for tourism, yet it offers breathtaking natural and cultural diversity. Crystal-clear water and deserted beaches are only a small part of what this region has to offer. On its 83 islands you will find virtually untouched rainforests, active volcanoes and glorious waterfalls that invite you to take a dip.

Niue

The remote island of Niue is an ideal destination for an active holiday in the South Pacific. Don’t forget your hiking boots, diving mask and snorkel! Dive down to the pristine reefs off the coast or hike through the rainforests to rugged cliffs and mysterious caves. But outshining everything else is the extraordinary hospitality of Niue’s islanders! You will remember their joie de vivre for a long time to come.

Cook Islands

Each of the 15 islands in the Cook Islands archipelago has its very own charm. On Rarotonga, the island of flowers, you will find nature’s most beautiful colours: turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches and lush green palm trees. Discover this wonderful natural world on foot or simply relax by the sea. For even more variety, Aitutaki atoll, around an hour’s flight away, boasts impressive reefs just waiting to be explored.

French Polynesia

A dream trip to the South Pacific could hardly be more varied than on the 120 islands of French Polynesia. Their names sound exotic: Tahiti, Bora Bora or Moorea. The five archipelagos are completely different from one another, yet all are breathtakingly beautiful and full of colourful plants and flowers. And beneath the surface, too, the play of colours knows no bounds.

Samoa

Samoa looks like the set of a film adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel ‘Treasure Island’ and holds several treasures of its own. They are made of neither gold nor silver, but are at least as appealing. Glorious blue lagoons and shimmering white dream beaches contrast with lush green valleys and dark grey volcanoes. But the best thing about Samoa is its culinary wealth of natural fruit! Add to that delicious freshly caught fish and succulent seafood – gourmets and nature lovers alike will be in their element on Samoa.