Tracks, Walks & Caves

Niue offers an unforgettable experience through its well-marked tracks that cater to all fitness levels. With its pristine waters, limited human population, and lack of industrialization, the coastline is a natural wonder waiting to be explored. The island boasts rainforests, jagged coral pinnacles, steep descents, and magnificent caves, each track leading to breathtaking scenes that could easily be mistaken for a movie set.

Niue's historical landmarks and sites are clearly signposted, encouraging visitors to embark on a self-discovery journey. Guided tours by local operators are also available for those who prefer expert insights. 

The coastline is home to numerous captivating caves and chasms, some of which were once used for storage, burials, or dwellings. These caves, still forming, showcase stunning stalagmites and stalactites at various stages of growth. Their natural beauty and wonders can be explored through self-guided expeditions.

Renowned as having the most spectacular and extensive cave system in the South Pacific, Niue's reputation has even garnered recognition from European cave experts. Prepare to be amazed as you immerse yourself in the wonders of Niue's unique geological landmarks, limestone formations, and extraordinary cave systems.

Anapala (moderate)

Descending 155 steps into a well known chasm and pool of fresh water situated near the track leading from the village of Hakupu to the sea, Anapala was a main source of fresh water for residents of the surrounding village.

Avaiki (moderate)

A historical place in Niue as this was where the first canoe landed. It is advisable to visit Avaiki during a low tide as there is an amazing swimming cave to the north of the main cave and perfect for a sunset swim.

Limu

One of the most beautiful swimming and snorkelling areas on the northern coast of the island, the crystal clear waters of Limu hold a wide variety of fish life and caves to explore. The mixture of salt and fresh water flowing out from the island provides a refreshing and unique snorkelling experience. The track to Limu is clearly marked at the northern end of Namukulu Village and has wonderful picnic areas available. A visit to Limu is a must for all visitors to the island.

Hio (moderate)

Located just on the outskirt of Tuapa village heading north is a small secluded sandy cove. At low tide a cave to the north of the cove can be accessed. It was here that the Peruvian 'black birder' Irole wrecked in 1877, locals took possession of the liquor that was salvaged from the wreck and poured it into the sea despite the protests of the Captain.

Matapa Chasm (easy)

Noted for its expansive cliff face and historical importance as a reserved bathing place for Niue's traditional kings, Matapa Chasm is reached by a track which branches off from the main road at the foot of Hikutavake Hill and beside the start of the trek to Talava Arches. Matapa Chasm provides a sheltered snorkelling, swimming place for all.

Opaahi (easy)

This was the site Captain Cook's second landing attempts in June 1774. Cook's landing party was challenged by the locals, who retreated after several volleys were fired, and the landing party returned to the ship.

Palaha (moderate)

Located south of Tuapa village, along the North West coast of the island, Palaha is notable for its limestone formations in varying shades of green and red. The reef flat is accessible at low tide, with small pools to snorkel in. The rock formations can get quite slippery so do navigate them with caution.

Peniamina's Grave (easy)

Located in a small clearing on the left hand side of the road 5km north of Alofi is the burial site of Peniamina, the first Niuean to bring Christianity to the island. In his honour Niue also observes an annual public holiday in October.

Talava Arches (moderate - hard)

Branching off to the right of the access track to Matapa Chasm is a clearly marked trek to Talava Arches. Traditionally used as a lookout point to keep watch for impending raids or foreign vessels, Talava is now home to one of Niue's unique land marks – the Arches.

Togo (moderate to hard)

Everyone should make at least one trip to Togo which is reached by a track starting about 4km north of Hakupu. After leaving the bush the track descends through a mass of jagged coral pinnacles to a grassy flat, where a passage leads off to the edge of a chasm. At the foot of the chasm there is a beach of fine golden sand from which some coconut trees rise, almost reaching to the rim of the chasm. 

Tomb Point (easy)

An easy walk next to church in Alofi, opposite the main shopping centre and with a lookout and 180 degree views of the Alofi bay. There are picnic areas nearby and two of Niue's former kings are buried within the grounds of the church.

Uluvehi (easy)

1846 hailed the arrival of Christianity to the island through Peniamina. In 1863 Peruvian Slave traders arrived at Uluvehi and carried away 109 young Niuean men in 3 ships to work in the guano mines of Chile. None ever returned. Uluvehi was also used as a landing site by trading schooners. Today, Uluvehi offers a great view of the ocean and with a coconut stop at the start of the road it's a great way to refresh yourself before continuing on with your journey.