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Papua New Guinea - A Tribal Odyssey
Goroka Singsing Festival
HIGHLIGHTS
• Goroka 'singsing' festival (Sep dep)
• Visit Rabaul on New Britain Island and witness the Baining Fire Dance
• 3-day Sepik River adventure by motorized wooden canoe
• Encounter the Asaro Mudmen, the Wahgi, Simbu, and Kaguel tribes
• Swim with the dolphins in Rabaul
• Search for Birds of Paradise
• Enjoy the most unique dolphin experience you will likely ever encounter
• Visit with the fascinating Huli Wigmen in Tari
• Enjoy the many different tribal dances and cultural events that will leave you overwhelmed!
FACT FILE
• 22 land days
• Maximum 16 travelers
• Start and finish in Port Moresby
• All meals included
• Includes 6 domestic flights
• Activity Level: 2
FROM: $14,995 USD
DATES, PRICES & AVAILABILITY
= has guaranteed departures
ACCOMMODATIONS
Comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms. On the Sepik River, we have 2 nights in basic dormitory accommodation (tribal longhouses) with limited bathing and toilet facilities.
COMFORT NOTES
1 day traveling over 8,000 feet. Local roads can be rough and wet. Travelers must be flexible and prepared for day-to-day changes. Some areas are very primitive.
Papua New Guinea is like no other place on Earth - culturally rich and geographically remote, with some of the most stunning scenery anywhere.
From the rugged mountains to the coastal islands, this journey is an adventure of a lifetime. We meet and learn about some of the tribal people of this land including the Asaro Mudmen, the Wahgi, the Simbu, the Kaguel, the Melpa and the Huli Wigmen. Our adventure includes many village visits so that we can really meet the people and experience their way of life.
In the highlands, we fly to Tari, home to the Huli Wigmen before traveling overland to Mt. Hagen, Goroka and finally descending to Madang on the coast. This departure features the Goroka Singsing festival, a two-day spectacle of traditional song and dance, complete with traditional tribal clothing and body decoration, where the tribes come from all over Papua New Guinea. We will visit several villages in the highlands to see and experience their culture, songs, dances and traditions.
We explore the Sepik River by wooden canoe for an epic tribal adventure! Throughout our journey, we encounter amazing birdlife, lush flora, stunning scenery and some of the most fascinating tribal people on Earth!
We fly to Rabaul, visiting a local village, learning about their culture. We enjoy lunch with the villagers before returning to our lodge in the afternoon. We have an opportunity to snorkel with dolphins in a unique way that is unlike anything you have experienced before. We will also visit the original inhabitants of the region to experience the mystical and hypnotic Baining Fire Dance.
Papua New Guinea is one of the most culturally interesting places on Earth, with many of its tribal people following a traditional lifestyle. This adventure has been designed to experience the villages and people of Papua New Guinea. As much of the interior of the country has no roads or impassable ones, we maximize our time by flying from location to location and flight schedules frequently change. While we endeavor to do/see everything listed in the itinerary, it is common for changes to occur to the itinerary for things that are beyond our control. Travelers must be prepared for changes to this program, either before your journey starts or during the trip itself but rest assured, you will have the tribal experience of a lifetime!
Detailed Itinerary
Click the PDF icon to download the Papua New Guinea (Goroka) detailed itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN PORT MORESBY
We will meet on arrival at Port Moresby airport and transfer to our hotel. We gather this evening for our orientation meeting and dinner.
Overnight in Port Moresby.
DAY 2: PORT MORESBY NATURE TOUR; SEARCH FOR BIRDS OF PARADISE; WW2 CEMETERY
Embark on a scenic drive up the Sogeri Plateau to Virarata National Park, where you'll have the chance to spot native plants and, with a bit of luck, witness the breathtaking courtship displays of the Birds of Paradise in the wild. Enjoy panoramic views of Port Moresby and the Coral Sea before heading to Adventure Park for a leisurely lunch. Explore the park's stunning orchid garden and diverse wildlife, including more Birds of Paradise. We may also visit the poignant Bomana WWII War Cemetery, adding a touch of history to your journey.
Overnight in Port Moresby.
DAY 3: FLIGHT TO TARI
Catch an early morning flight from Port Moresby to Tari, a remote town with a population of around 15,000, nestled at an altitude of 5500 ft/1,670 meters. Upon arrival, you'll check in at your lodge, where you'll have some free time to relax and explore the stunning surroundings.
Overnight in Tari.
DAY 4: TARI REGION & HULI WIGMEN
Discover the rich culture of the Huli Wigmen on this immersive tour. Visit traditional wigmaker villages, where local artisans will demonstrate the intricate process of crafting the iconic Huli wigs. Learn about the cultural significance of the wigs and gain insight into the fascinating history and traditions of the Huli people, renowned for their vibrant and distinctive appearance. Enjoy your stay in our serene and picturesque lodge nestled in the heart of PNG's highlands!
Overnight in Tari.
DAY 5: SCENIC DRIVE TO MT. HAGEN
Embark on a long yet breathtaking drive from Tari to Mt. Hagen. Enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way as you make your way to Mt. Hagen, as we continue our adventure in Papua New Guinea's Highlands. We will make several interesting stops enroute.
Overnight at Mt. Hagen.
DAY 6: MT. HAGEN; ALKENA VILLAGE AND SPECTACULAR WARE DANCE
After an early breakfast, we depart for a tour in the Tambul district, one of the highest and most scenic areas of the Highlands. We visit Alkena village, which is the origin of the most spectacular and colorful dance in the province called the Ware Dance. We spend the rest of the day at the village witnessing other performances such as the Welcome Dance and other traditional activities.
Overnight in Mt. Hagen.
DAY 7: MT. HAGEN; WURUP VILLAGE
We begin with a scenic drive toward the picturesque village of Wurup. Our destination: the renowned Polga Cultural Center, where we’ll enjoy captivating performances of the local people. Experience authentic Highland culture brought to life through song, dance, and storytelling. We’ll enjoy a lunch enroute before visiting the colorful Mt. Hagen market. Mingle with the locals while browsing the vibrant displays of produce and traditional crafts.
Overnight in Mt. Hagen.
DAY 8: DRIVE TO GOROKA; ASARO MUDMEN
Goroka is the capital of the Eastern Highlands and our base for exploration including the JK McCarthy Museum and the Raun Raun theater. We then visit an Asaro village to meet the famous Asaro Mudmen who traditionally covered themselves in mud before raiding nearby villages. The legend of the Mudmen says that the tribe was attacked and forced to flee their village. To hide, they jumped into the Asaro river. When they emerged at twilight from the river, covered in mud, the attacking tribe saw them and thought they were spirits and fled the area. While in the village, we may be able to watch an eerie performance of the Mudmen, which is a production of mime. We may also see a local artist making an actual mudmask.
Overnight in Goroka.
DAYS 9 - 10: GOROKA SINGSING
The Goroka Cultural Show is one of the best shows in Papua New Guinea to witness some of the amazing traditional dances and tribal attire from over 40 different tribal groups. The annual Goroka Singsing festival is a visual, tribal spectacle that is truly unmatched! It is simply a photographer's dream! Enjoy 2 days of tribal song and dance, complete with traditional tribal clothing and body decorations where the tribes come from all over Papua New Guinea to proudly display their ceremonial traditions.
An early morning wake-up call gets us to the show grounds to see the preparations before the formal show begins. We see the performers prepare their traditional clothing and body decorations and practice for their dances.
We always keep these days a little bit flexible so that we can provide the best experience available for the group and not be tied to a strict itinerary.
Overnight in Goroka.
DAY 11: GOROKA TO MADANG
Madang province has many of the country's highest peaks and a broad ethnic diversity. Madang has been labeled "the prettiest town in the South Pacific" due to its palm-rimmed beaches, offshore islands, and lovely parks, all set against a rugged mountain backdrop. We have a full day of driving today, with several interesting stops along the way including the Yonki Hydro Dam. We will enjoy lunch enroute at a sugar plantation.
Overnight in Madang.
DAY 12: MADANG - BOAT TO PANUDAU ISLAND
In the morning, we’ll take a short boat ride to the nearby Panudau Island, where you’ll be immersed in vibrant traditional dances. We have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing snorkel or swim at a secluded island just a short distance away. After lunch, we’ll explore the local culture with a visit to the museum, followed by a trip to the iconic Kalibobo Lighthouse.
Overnight in Madang.
DAY 13: FLY TO WEWAK
We have an early morning flight to the tropical coastal paradise of Wewak, via Port Moresby. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel for lunch followed by a walk around the picturesque peninsula.
Overnight in Wewak.
DAY 14: TO THE SEPIK RIVER
This morning we drive to Pagwi on the Sepik River. The drive can take between 5 and 6 hours as we visit markets and viewpoints along the way. Arriving in Pagwi, we board motorized dugout canoes and travel down river to Kanganamun village, home of the crocodile cult, and set up for our next two nights in the village.
This afternoon, we attend a captivating Cassowary and Welcome Dance performance. After a delicious dinner, we’ll head to the Haus Tambaran for an unforgettable drumming performance, where the powerful beats will transport you into the heart of Papua New Guinea’s cultural traditions. It’s an evening of music, movement, and storytelling you won’t want to miss!
On the Sepik River we will be spending 2 nights in basic dormitory accommodation (tribal longhouse) with limited bathing and toilet facilities. Each person will have a foam mattress with sheets and a pillow with a pillowcase as well as a mosquito net.
Overnight in Kanganamun village.
DAY 15: SEPIK RIVER EXCURSION
Today, we will travel by dugout canoes along the Sepik River and its tributaries. Before heading out, we explore a Palimbe village and see its beautiful hand-carved totem pole.
We will stop at stilted villages to learn about the local way of life. We visit Aibom village - known for its clay pot makers, and Kanganamun village to meet the people and see how they fish, make sago and build their canoes.
Overnight at Kanganamun village.
DAY 16: SEPIK RIVER, RETURN TO WEWAK
This morning, we’ll travel back to Pagwi along the scenic river, enjoying the peaceful surroundings as we head to Korogu for another captivating local performance. After soaking in the cultural display, we’ll continue our journey to Pagwi, where we’ll board a vehicle for the scenic drive back to Wewak.
Overnight in Wewak.
DAY 17: DEPART WEWAK, FLY TO PORT MORESBY; NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM
After breakfast we will transfer to the airport for our late morning flight to Port Moresby. After our arrival we may leave our bags and any purchases at our airport hotel and either go for lunch or to explore more of Port Moresby. We will see the Parliament building, visit the National History Museum and time permitting, Nature park.
Overnight in Port Moresby.
DAY 18: FLY TO RABAUL; BAINING FIRE DANCE
Today we fly to Rabaul on East New Britain province in the northeast of PNG. Upon arrival we check into our charming and comfortable resort with beautiful views of the ocean and nearby volcanoes. Late afternoon, we set out to visit the original inhabitants of East New Britain to enjoy the mystical and breathtaking Baining Fire Dance.
The Baining Fire Dance is a very sacred dance and unique to the East New Britain province of Papua New Guinea. Initiated men dance bare-footed to prove their bravery, walking on fire without their feet being burned, while wearing masks that represent spirits of their ancestors. The drums and songs for this performance are absolutely hypnotic!
Overnight in Rabaul (actually in lesser known Kokopo, after the 1994 Rabaul volcano eruption).
DAY 19: RABAUL
Today we embark on a tour around Rabaul, once the bustling capital of Papua New Guinea, now a fascinating blend of history and nature. Just 30-40 km from the Kokopo, we’ll visit the dramatic remnants of the 1994 volcanic eruption, taking in the awe-inspiring volcanoes, steaming hot springs, and remnants from the Japanese occupation during WWII. At each stop, we'll uncover a piece of Rabaul's storied past.
Today we'll enjoy a delicious lunch at the iconic Rabaul Hotel, once a landmark of the region.
Overnight in Rabaul.
DAY 20: RABAUL - SNORKEL WITH DOLPHINS, FLY TO PORT MORESBY, BOAT TO LOLOATA ISLAND
Today we have an early start as we set out by boat to a place where dolphins congregate every morning. Snorkel gear and wetsuits are provided before we set out by boat. We will slowly be towed by our boat to see the dolphins up close providing a dolphin experience unlike anything you have experienced before.
Later, we say goodbye to Rabaul and East New Britain for our flight back to Port Moresby. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the dock for Loloata island where we catch our ferry to this neighboring island.
Loloata is a small island not far from Port Moresby and a perfect place to enjoy, relax and reflect on the amazing experiences and memories from your Papua New Guinea adventure.
Overnight on Loloata Island.
DAY 21: LOLOATA ISLAND
Today we have a relaxing day to do nothing but enjoy the ocean view, go swimming, snorkelling or even take a hike on the island to take in the beautiful scenery. Keep an eye out for the impressive looking Victoria crowned pigeon and the adorable wallabies, the smaller cousin of the kangaroo.
Tonight we have our farewell dinner.
Overnight on Loloata Island.
DAY 22: DEPART PORT MORESBY
We say a fond farewell to this fascinating and beautiful country as we transfer by boat and bus to the airport for your departure flight.
F.A.Q's
HOW BIG ARE THE GROUPS?
Each group is limited to 16 participants. Small groups are an important ingredient in adventure travel. They allow for more interaction and more personalized service throughout the itinerary.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?
All accommodations throughout; all meals, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); bottled drinking water throughout the trip; all internal transportation; airport transfers on day 1 and departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); all day trips and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary; tips for hotels (porterage), bus driver, restaurants, national guides, and spot guides; services of a trip leader.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?
International flights, tips to ElderTreks tour leader, national guide, alcoholic drinks, visa’s and travel insurance.
ARE THESE “EDUCATIONAL” TOURS?
Yes, in the broadest sense of the word, "educational". We visit museums, national parks and reserves and have talks and discussions on many aspects of history, culture and nature. But this is only a portion of the educational experience. We believe that it is equally educational to meet local people on a non-commercial basis, and even try to learn a few words in the native language. Sometimes the most "educational" moments are wandering through the streets of a mountain village.
HOW DO WE TRAVEL DURING THE TOUR?
We travel by coaster bus in the highlands, for parts of our exploration in Wewak, Rabaul and Port Moresby. We take 6 fights as the only viable option to efficiently get us to the different regions of PNG. We also enjoy several boat rides to Loloata island, Madang, Rabaul (for our dolphin experience) and for most of our exploration on our Sepik River adventure.
WHAT ARE OUR ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?
Charming, comfortable, well-located accommodations with private bathrooms. On the Sepik River we will be spending 2 nights in basic dormitory accommodation (bush longhouses) with limited bathing and
toilet facilities. Each person will have a foam mattress with sheets and a pillow with pillowcase as well as a mosquito net. Single supplement rooming requests cannot be accommodated on the Sepik River.
Please note that for our journey on the Sepik River, large suitcases cannot be accommodated; please bring a small overnight bag for these two nights.
WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?
In the highlands it is mostly comfortable during the day but can be cooler at night due to the higher elevation. It will be hot and humid in lower and coastal regions, especially on the Sepik River.
WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?
A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD (plus insurance if you require it) is due at time of booking and will reserve your place on the tour. Payment of the full land cost is due 120 days before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.
IS MEDICAL INSURANCE REQUIRED?
Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of your trip. Please note that medical insurance is not required for this adventure but is recommended. ElderTreks offers comprehensive travel insurance with Manulife for Canadian guests, and John Hancock for American guests. Please CLICK HERE to view and purchase your insurance policy today. If you are purchasing insurance elsewhere, please ensure you provide the details to ElderTreks as soon as possible.
WHAT SHOULD I TAKE ON THE TOUR?
There is a detailed “What to Take” list in our Trip Kit, which we will send to you after you have booked the trip.
WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED?
All meals during the itinerary are included, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day. We eat a variety of local and international foods prepared in a wide range of settings. In many cases, we simply order a number of dishes and share, allowing you to sample new foods and decide what you enjoy best.
CAN YOU ARRANGE MY FLIGHTS?
We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary.
WHAT IF I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION?
If you have any further questions about the adventure, please call our office for more details. A Trip Specialist will be happy to answer your questions. A Trip Kit containing further details on the destination will be sent to you once you have booked the trip.
Dates & Prices
Cost Note:
Price includes $2800 USD of domestic airfare
*Single Supplement is the additional amount applied to the cost of the trip to those who are travelling solo and do not wish to share.
