LOCATION

The loyalty islands: Lifou, Maré and Ouvéa, make an island's line at 150 km far from the west coast of "Grande Terre", the main island of New Caledonia and they are kept appart from a marine's pit of 2,500 meters deep. This archipelago is just up north from the capricorn tropic.

Lifou is the administrative center of the loyalty islands, itselves part of New Caledonia. It's also the biggest and more developped of the three island. There is two main cities : Wé, where the boats arrive and Xepenehe at 5km far from Wanaham airport.

Lifou is surrounded by a magnificient coral reef where we are doing most of our dives,whereas passing that reef you will find quickly very important depths. The middle of Sandal Wood bay goes down to 1,000 meters deep. This configuration makes Lifou an awesome place, where divers can enjoy very rare or old species like the nautilus.

As there's no creek or river getting in the sea, the water is really clear with good visibility without any alluvium deposits whatever the forecast weather is.

POPULATION 

The population is 8,500 inhabitants which is really few compared to the island's size that occures in a little population density (about 8,5 hab/km2). 

Originally Melanesians, you will find today an ethnical blend with polynesian's population. French is spoken by everyone althought the inhabitants are all bilingual, using their original language : the Dréhu. Very attached to their island, their way of life, their traditions and their custom, Lifou's inhabitants are very friendly. They will make you discover their culture and traditions in the kindnest way.

TRANSPORT ON THE ISLAND 

Public transport is really limited on the island, and you will have to use a motorised vehicle to travel around. You can rent cars from couple of companies but there is not taxi (cab). Make sure you will have a reservation for a vehicle or ask your accommodation if they have got a transfer to pick you up.

Note that the driving is on the right side and follows the same rules as the metropolis. 

INFORMATIONS AND SERVICES

Weather: there is a spring climat during all year long, with a winter season (from may till october) dryer and fresher ( 18-22°C, water 22°C)  and a summer season, warmer and weter (28-30°C, water 28°C). Bring light clothes, with a warm jumper for the winter evenings and a raincoat.

Health: sanitary conditions are really good in Lifou, where there are three community health centres : Xepenehe,  Wé and Mu. In case of emergency people will be evacuated to Nouméa where there is all the equipement required.

 Money: New Caledonia's money is the pacific franc (CFP) with a rate that worth 119.33 CFP for 1 euro. You will find ATM machine in We.  Some shops, Lifou Fun Dive included, accept international credit cards and caledonians check, but not all of them. Make sure you  will have some cash.