Papua New Guinea
Nestled in the southwestern Pacific, Papua New Guinea is a land of fascinating tribal cultures, diverse ecosystems, and natural wonders that captivate the adventurous traveller’s heart. With its untouched rainforests, lush highlands, and pristine beaches, this island nation offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion. The capital, Port Moresby, showcases the fusion of traditional and modern influences, while outside the urban centres, you’ll discover indigenous communities that maintain age-old customs.
For nature enthusiasts, Papua New Guinea is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Explore the remote Sepik River region, where tribal villages maintain their traditional way of life. The misty highlands of Goroka offer stunning trekking opportunities, leading you through rugged terrains and picturesque landscapes. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Milne Bay to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter exotic marine life, including elusive manta rays and reef sharks.
Cultural experiences abound as you engage with various indigenous groups, each with its unique traditions and languages. Witness striking choruses, and elaborate tribal gatherings where locals don vibrant traditional costumes and perform ancient dances. Delve into the art of storytelling as tribal elders share their myths and legends. Papua New Guinea is an off-the-beaten-track destination that promises an authentic and immersive adventure for those seeking to discover its raw beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Papua New Guinea is late May to October for most reasonable temperatures in the mid to high 20s.
FLIGHT TIME
Your travel time may take 24hours + as there will be connections.
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +10
CURRENCY
Kina
IDEAL FOR
Papua New Guinea is perfect for those seeking adventure! There’s endless jungle and cultural festivals to explore providing true life experiences.
HOW TO GET THERE
You’ll need to catch a flight to Port Moresby, ensuring you have a VISA to enter the country.
LANGUAGE
English, Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu and other indigenous vernaculars are spoken in Papua New Guinea.
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Venture out to Australia, or neighbouring Oceanic islands.
Our Favourite Places in Papua New Guinea
Suggested Itineraries
Papua New Guinea Cultural Adventure
11 day holiday
Kawawari, Port Moresby, Lake Murray, Mt Hagen
The Papua New Guinea Cultural Adventure is an 11-day journey offering an immersive look into one of the world’s most remote and culturally rich destinations. Beginning in the highlands around Mt Hagen, travellers are introduced to the traditional lifestyles of the Melpa people, whose customs have endured for centuries. From there, the tour moves to Lake Murray in the Western Province, where stilt villages dot the lake’s edge and travel is by dugout canoe. Birdwatching is a highlight here, with the region home to a vast variety of species, including the famous Birds of Paradise.
Continuing east, the adventure reaches the Sepik region via a scenic charter flight to Karawari. Life here centres on the river, and visitors explore remote jungle villages accessible only by boat. The tour includes cultural encounters such as sago-making demonstrations, woodcarving, and village visits, all while surrounded by untouched wilderness and rich birdlife. With boutique lodge stays, scenic charter flights, and close interactions with isolated communities, this itinerary offers a rare and in-depth look at Papua New Guinea’s diverse heritage and natural beauty.
Customs & Cultures of Papua New Guinea (Group Tour)
14 day holiday
Raboul, Port Moresby, Warwagira, Kinavai, Kokopo, Madang, Goroka
The Cultures & Customs of Papua New Guinea tour is a 15-day small-group journey that offers an in-depth look at the country’s tribal heritage, dramatic landscapes, and cultural festivals. Starting in the Eastern Highlands, visitors explore Goroka and its surrounding villages, witnessing traditions such as the eerie Asaro Mudmen, fire-making ceremonies, and ghost dances. There’s time spent learning traditional crafts in Chimbu villages and exploring the bustling markets of Goroka before a scenic drive leads to Madang on the coast. In Madang, the itinerary includes birdwatching, snorkelling around Siar Island, village performances, and visits to WWII sites.
The second half of the tour heads to Rabaul and Kokopo in East New Britain Province, just in time for the vibrant Warwagira National Mask Festival. Highlights include the Kinavai ceremony with Tolai tribespeople arriving by canoe, the intense Baining Fire Dance, and VIP access to traditional performances at the festival. Guests also explore volcanic landscapes, WWII relics, and local markets. With a mix of guided excursions, unique performances, and free time to take in the surroundings, this small-group experience is ideal for travellers keen to uncover Papua New Guinea’s diverse customs and cultural depth.
Papua New Guinea with Mt Wilhelm Climb
15 day holiday
Port Moresby, Highlands, Tari, Mount Hagen
The Papua New Guinea with Mt Wilhelm Climb tour is a 14-day adventure combining cultural immersion with a challenging alpine trek. Beginning in the Highlands, travellers explore the villages of the Huli Wigmen near Tari, witness spirit dances, and enjoy world-renowned birdwatching opportunities. From there, the tour heads to the foot of Mt Wilhelm, the nation’s highest peak, for a guided ascent via Lake Piunde. The summit attempt begins before dawn, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views before descending to recover in the lush valleys below. The experience is as much about the natural surroundings as the journey itself, with time to acclimatise and enjoy the changing landscape.
After the trek, the itinerary continues with rich cultural encounters in Goroka and Madang. Highlights include an Asaro Mudman performance, hands-on experiences in Chimbu villages learning traditional crafts, and the chance to explore local markets and museums. In Madang, guests enjoy a scenic harbour cruise with snorkelling opportunities and visit remote villages that have retained their ancient way of life. The journey ends in Port Moresby with visits to the National Parliament, the National Museum, and Port Moresby Nature Park, offering a final glimpse into Papua New Guinea’s heritage and biodiversity.
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We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
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If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.
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Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.
