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Troisieme Cave (WWII)
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The Troisieme Cave, located near Dumbéa in New Caledonia, is a compelling relic of the Pacific Theater during World War II. When the island was transformed into a major Allied logistics hub known as 'Base Button', this natural cave system was militarily reinforced in 1942 to serve as a high-security ammunition depot. American engineers utilized explosives to blast additional storage chambers into the limestone rock, creating a bomb-proof facility capable of sheltering both supplies and personnel from potential Japanese air raids. Today, the cave has transitioned from a restricted military site to a favorite destination for hikers and history enthusiasts. The trail leading to the cave winds through dense local brush, culminating in the impressive cavern entrance. Inside, the markings of heavy machinery and remnants of wartime construction remain visible, testifying to the massive logistical efforts of the era. The site features a unique blend of natural subterranean beauty and a tangible connection to the global history of the 1940s.
- Location: New Caledonia
- Top sights: Chapelle de Dumbéa-Sur-Mer · Memorial des gendarmes d'Ouvea et soldats parachutistes du 11deg Choc · Chapelle de Dumbéa Rivière
- Nearby: Koutio (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 124 | 122 | 171 | 105 | 91 | 75 | 63 | 61 | 41 | 45 | 57 | 87 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Troisieme Cave near Dumbéa is a historical relic from World War II. The cave entrance is freely accessible; the interior can be explored with caution.
Typical hours
The cave is accessible at all times as an open natural monument. Best visited during daylight as there is no artificial lighting.
Photography
Photography inside the cave is allowed with flash to illuminate the structures. A tripod can be useful for long exposures.
Time needed
A visit to the cave typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. The surrounding forest trails invite longer exploration.
Combine with
Combine the cave visit with a hike in Parc des Grandes Fougères. The town of Dumbéa with its cafés provides a good break.
Getting there
The cave is about 15 minutes north of Dumbéa by car. Follow the dirt track from Route Territoriale 1 and park at the forest edge.
Insider tip
Bring a torch as the cave is very dark. Sturdy footwear is recommended due to uneven ground inside.
Geography
Facts
- Part of a network of three caves located near Hienghène.
- Requisitioned and utilized by the US Army in 1942.
- Primarily used for storing ammunition and medical supplies.
- The natural internal temperature remained stable year-round.
- Large enough to accommodate dozens of soldiers at once.
- Accessible via a short hiking trail from the main road.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Troisieme Cave (WWII) (6)
Vestiges du Pont Pédestre du Chemin de Fer
Ruins of a former railway footbridge in Dumbéa.
Vestiges du Pont de Chemin de Fer
Remains of a railway bridge in Dumbéa, relic of the rail line.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one enter the Grotte de la Troisième?
Access may be restricted; please check local warnings.
Why is the cave historically important?
It served as a hideout and military base during World War II.
Is a flashlight required?
Yes, as the inner area is dark and unlit.
Are the paths to the cave difficult?
The paths are moderate but require some sure-footedness.
Are there parking facilities nearby?
Parking is often only possible on the roadside nearby.
Troisieme Cave (WWII): where is it located?
Troisieme Cave (WWII) is located in New Caledonia.
Troisieme Cave (WWII): what is there to see?
Highlights include Chapelle de Dumbéa-Sur-Mer, Memorial des gendarmes d'Ouvea et soldats parachutistes du 11deg Choc, Chapelle de Dumbéa Rivière.
Troisieme Cave (WWII): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Troisieme Cave (WWII): why is it worth visiting?
The Troisieme Cave, located near Dumbéa in New Caledonia, is a compelling relic of the Pacific Theater during World War II.
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