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Hundreds of caves and chasms punctuate Niue’s coastline. Some are quite hard to find or have tricky access so a guide is recommended and, in some cases, essential. An exciting caving expedition will enable you to witness Niue's spectacular subterranean caves and grottoes. |
Squeeze through the keyhole and view amazing stalactites, stalagmites and limestone. The spectacular Avaiki Cave is purportedly where the first settler canoe made landfall, and is one of the places closed during the kaloama season, when small sardine like fish run its pools. Niue's natural catacombs have traditionally been used for canoe storage and as repositories for the bones of dead ancestors, but the island's subterranean wonders, many of which still lie undiscovered, are a charisma for the tourist seeking a different Pacific destination. Vaikona, one of the most remarkable chasms on the island, and Anapala, with its pool of fresh cool water, are two well known chasms.
1: Ulupaka Cave
Ulupaka Cave, reached by a track 800m south of Lakepa, has many stalactites and stalagmites and appears to have been used as a dwelling place.
2: Anatoloa
1.6 Kilometers north of Lakepa can be found this historic cave thought to be the home of a dangerous god. Some bones can be found in the cave and also Pekapeka Bats.
3: Matapa Chasm
This is a very popular place for visitors and can be reached from the main road at the foot of Hikutavake Hill. There is a fresh water stream feeding the chasm from below and this keep the water temperatures cool. It is believed that the ancient Niuean Kings used this place as their favourite bathing location on Niue.
4: Anaana Point
Situated on the southern coast, Anaana Point overlooks some of Niue’s prime deep-sea fishing grounds and has spectacular waves and blowholes. Nearby is a burial cave with human bones.
5: Talava Arches
Talava has a group of spectacular arch formations, one of which was used in days gone by to keep watch for raids by outsiders. Talava also has interesting caves and an edible seaweed which grows in the shallow rock pools at the base of the arches.
6: Vaikona
The Namuke sea track leads to Vaikona, one of the most remarkable chasms on the island. The track leads from the main road about 4kim south of Liku. It is difficult to gain access to the cave and the path leading to it is also demanding.
7: Anapala
Situated near the track leading from the Village of Hakupu to the sea, this is a well-known chasm with a pool of fresh cool water. A guide is necessary. The water is used in times of drought for washing purposes.
