papua new guinea tour

Papua New Guinea Tours & Vacations

Papua New Guinea’s complex culture and biodiversity mean an endless supply of amazing discoveries for even the widest-traveled adventurer.

While hiking the historic Kokoda Track   is an act of pilgrimage for some, the insight into remote indigenous cultures and encounters with rare wildlife are reason enough for many. From thick jungles, gorges, lagoons and volcanoes to diverse, ancient traditions practiced by hundreds of tribal groups, join us on an Intrepid adventure to discover why Papua New Guinea is one of the   South Pacific 's most intriguing destinations.

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Papua New Guinea at a glance

Capital city.

Port Moresby (population 400,000)

English, Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu

(GMT+10:00) Guam, Port Moresby

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)

Learn more about Papua New Guinea

Best time to visit papua new guinea.

The best time to visit PNG is during the dry season when cool breezes and low humidity on the coast make temperatures comfortable.

Coastal areas can be very hot and humid during the monsoon and rainfall can be torrential.

The highlands are much cooler and have even been known to experience snowfalls.

Culture and customs

Papua New Guinea is home to hundreds of tribes – each with its own languages, beliefs, traditions and customs.

Cultures vary considerably throughout the island as tribes were isolated from each other for hundreds of years.

Locals wear bilas (traditional costumes and body decorations) at sing-sings (festivals) and many tribes still practice traditional ways of life, including initiation ceremonies to welcome young men and women into adulthood.

Learn more about the tribes of PNG

Geography and environment

Papua New Guinea is part of a chain of islands stretching between Asia and Australia. It has over 600 islands, the largest of which, Bougainville, shares a border with Indonesia .

The islands are notoriously rugged with heavily forested peaks hiding all manner of weird and wonderful flora and fauna.

Eating and drinking

Papua New Guinean cuisine is largely vegetarian with lots of tropical fruits and starchy root vegetables like sago, taro roots and sweet potato. Seafood, chicken and pork are also popular, though traditionally pork is eaten on special occasions. Below are some traditional foods to try in Papua New Guinea:

Sago is a starch extracted from the sago palm tree. It's one of the most popular foods in Papua New Guinean cuisine and is used for a wide range of sweet and savory dishes including pancakes and dumplings.

Saksak is a traditional Papuan dumpling made with sago. The pearls are mixed with mashed bananas and coconut milk and steamed in banana leaves. Sweet, chewy and moreish, saksak makes for a great breakfast or sweet snack.

Mumu is a traditional Papuan way of cooking in an earth oven. Parcels of vegetables, starches, meat and fruit are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed in a small pit filled with hot coals.

4. Kokoda fish

Kokoda fish is native to Papua New Guinea and Fiji. The fish is traditionally eaten ceviche-style by marinating cubes of raw fish in lime juice, coconut milk, sliced onions and fresh herbs.

5. Chicken pot

Chicken pot is a simple and hearty one-pot dish. It's made by boiling chicken, sweet potatoes, corn, onions and curry powder in a coconut milk-based broth.

Learn more about Papua New Guinean food

Wildlife encounters

Papua New Guinea's diverse, fertile landscapes are home to a variety of wildlife – many of which you have a good chance of spotting when you're hiking. Below are some of the animals you may encounter:

1. Long-beaked echidna

The long-beaked echidna is an interesting critter, and not just because of its protruding schnoz! Looks-wise, this mammal is a mix between a platypus and a hedgehog. It also lays eggs which then hatch in a pouch. Fascinating, huh? Their long beaks have an awesome ability to detect small electric fields created by earthworms and insects that are a staple in their diet.

2. Flying fox

During the day, these guys literally hang out in mangroves, paperbark and bamboo forests to roost in groups that often exceed tens of thousands. Unlike other bat species, they have great eyesight and don't use   echolocation to hunt.

3. Raggiana bird of paradise

This beautiful bird is found predominantly on the eastern side of the island. They're known for their stunning plumage – especially the males with their brightly colored tail feathers, which attract mates during the breeding season.

4. Tree kangaroo

The tree kangaroo is similar to its ground-hopping cousin, except it spends most of its time hanging out in the treetops. They're awesome climbers and have adapted to have s maller legs and stronger forelimbs to ascend trunks and branches.   Their diet consists largely of leaves and fresh fruit.

5. Cuscus possum

This nocturnal marsupial is the world's largest possum species and is native to Papua New Guinea and the northernmost tip of Australia. They live in forests at high altitudes of 1200 meters and eat a varied diet of fruits, leaves and the occasional small mammal or egg.

Festivals and events

Nowhere does festivals quite like Papua New Guinea. Home to hundreds of tribal groups – each with their own languages, beliefs, customs and traditions – the sing-sings (festivals) here are like nothing you've ever seen before. Here are some of the most famous ones:

1. Sepik Crocodile Festival

The Sepik River is home to some of the world’s biggest fresh and saltwater crocs. Crocodiles are highly symbolic in Sepik culture and this festival is a way to honor the cultural connection to the reptile. Tribes arrive dressed in their best traditional bilas (body decorations) and performers entertain with elaborate dances to the hypnotic beats of kundu drums. You can also meet Sepik men who've had scars cut into their skin to resemble a crocodile’s scales as part of a rite of passage ceremony.

2. The Mask Festival

Every year the many language groups of East New Britain gather to celebrate the Mask Festival. Masks play a significant role in rituals and storytelling and are believed to be symbolic of spirits. Immerse yourself in mask culture and witness a spectacle of song, dance and costume. One of the highlights is the Kinavai opening ceremony where members of the Tolai clan arrive in canoes donning spectacular full-bodied masks to the skin-tingling sound of drums and chanting.

3. The Enga Cultural Festival

The outside world didn’t know about the tribes of the Enga Province until the 1930s, and the Enga Show was started to conserve and uphold the Engans' cultures and customs. Tribes gather in the thousands to chant, sing, dance and take part in centuries-old rituals.

4. Kenu and Kundu Canoe Festival

Canoes and kundu drums are a big part of life for the tribes of the Milne Bay Province, and this festival is a celebration of those things. Tribes come together to take part in a riveting race in traditional wooden canoes to the rhythmic beats of kundu drums – a sight bound to get your heart pumping a few extra beats! There are also art and craft displays and singing and dance performances from various regions.

Learn more about festivals in PNG

Top 5 Kokoda moments in Papua New Guinea

1. village stays.

Days away from the outside world, the villages and villagers along the Kokoda Track have been able to maintain their customs, languages and traditions with little interference from the outside world.

2. Isurava Battlefield

Once a WWII battleground, now a moving memorial. The four pillars encapsulate the battle along Kokoda with the words: ‘Courage, Sacrifice, Mateship and Endurance.’

3. Mt Bellamy

It’s an arduous challenge to get to the track’s highest point, but at 7218ft (2200m) your efforts are rewarded with sprawling views across the Owen Stanley Ranges.

4. Fuzzy Wuzzy Friends

Thousands of Australian soldiers owed their lives to the actions of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and they’ve become legendary throughout the country. At Menari, we have the opportunity to meet with one of the remaining angels.

5. The Golden Staircase

The original stairs (built by Aussie soldiers) may no longer exist but the steep hill they climbed lives on!

Papua New Guinea travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Papua New Guinea

All foreign nationals traveling to   Papua New Guinea must hold a visitor entry permit. Citizens from over 60 countries are now eligible for a single-entry visa on arrival for stays of up to 30 days, including citizens of the   United Kingdom, the   United States, Canada,   Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.

Citizens from countries not listed will need to apply for a visitor entry permit. This visa is free (excluding postage costs) and allows you to stay for up to 60 days. You must enter within six months of the permit’s date of issue. You may also be able to extend onshore if you fancy sticking around for a little longer – with so much to see and do, we don’t blame you!

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 16 March 2023 

Is tipping customary in Papua New Guinea?

Tipping isn’t expected in Papua New Guinea but if you’ve received good service consider a 10% tip.

What is the internet access like in Papua New Guinea?

Service can be slow and intermittent even in major towns.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Papua New Guinea?

Reception is poor in most areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Papua New Guinea?

It's likely that you’ll encounter different types of toilets while traveling in Papua New Guinea. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Bottle of soft drink = 3 PGK Beer in a bar or restaurant = 10 PGK Simple lunch = 10 PGK Three-course meal = 50 PGK

Can I drink the water in Papua New Guinea?

Drinking tap water in Papua New Guinea isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Papua New Guinea?

Credit cards are widely accepted in major towns.

What is ATM access like in Papua New Guinea?

There’s good access to ATMs in Port Moresby.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Papua New Guinea?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 2 Jan New Year Holiday
• 14 Apr Good Friday
• 15 Apr Holy Saturday
• 16 Apr Easter Sunday
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 12 Jun Queen's Birthday
• 23 Jul National Remembrance Day
• 24 Jul Public Holiday
• 26 Aug National Day of Repentance
• 28 Aug National Day of Repentance Holiday
• 16 Sep Independence Day
• 18 Sep Independence Day Holiday
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec Boxing Day

For a current list of public holidays in Papua New Guinea go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/papua-new-guinea/public-holidays

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Papua New Guinea Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 11 most popular papua new guinea trips. compare tour itineraries from 23 tour companies. 7 reviews. 4.3/5 avg rating., popular papua new guinea tours.

The Kokoda Track

• Trek the famous Kokoda Track the ethical way. We partner with a local cooperative that ensures local communities benefit directly from your visit.
• Hear incredible tales of wartime courage from the local historian in Brigade Hill
• Hike up the arid spines of mountains and through valleys of lush rainforest, stopping to cool off in pristine rivers along the way.
• Meet the people who live in this region, learn about the local cultures and contribute to these small and remote communities.
• Trek every step with a personal porter, trekking leader and crew – all locals – to ensure that you have the best experience possible while supporting employment in the region.

Papua New Guinea Expedition: Firedance Festival

• As a small group, be welcomed into a local village and watch as traditional Baining dancers circle a growing fire and perform dancing rituals – a insight into one of Papua New Guinea’s indigenous cultures.
• Spend time before and after the performance learning more about these traditional customs, sharing meals, stories and laughs with local community members.
• Jump into island life of the Duke of York Islands, marvelling at an active volcano, tucking into a beachside barbecue and experiencing a traditional sing-sing with the villagers.
• Discover how the World Wars played out in the Pacific, by visiting the War Museum in Rabaul and heading underground for a tour of the Japanese tunnels in Kokopo.

Papua New Guinea: Mount Hagen Festival

San Francisco to Hong Kong

• Visit the Museum of Modern Art or head for the celebrated vineyards of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.
• Experience Honolulu from a totally different angle on this thrilling helicopter ride.
• Explore the sea whilst whale watching aboard the high-tech, twin hulled 140 foot Navatek.
• Experience the thrill of swimming with sharks and schools of colourful tropical fish followed by a picnic on the beach.
• Experience the underwater wonders of Bora Bora's picturesque Lagoon by underwater scooter.

Papua New Guinea Expedition

• Enjoy diving each day on the tour
• Visit the traditional Sepik Villages
• Explore the Sepik River, which is one of the largest rivers in the world
• Explore Wahgi Valley - a valley with some of the oldest evidence of agriculture in the world.
• A day excursion along the jungle-fringed waterways of the Karawari River

Bali to Fiji

• Right now is the best time to discover Lombok Island. Lying just 40 miles east of Bali, this tropical wonderland has the advantage of being as yet undiscovered by the tourist crowds
• Visit the capital of Timor-Leste, one of the youngest countries in the world. In Dili, you can climb to the Cristo Rei (Christ the King) statue, stroll the waterfront, and enjoy excellent diving and snorkeling
• History buffs will thrill to the many landmarks of World War II that dot this itinerary, including Merauke, Indonesia; Samarai Island, Papua New Guinea; Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu; and, most famously, Guadalcanal, the Solomon Island where combat marked a turning point in the Pacific theater

South Pacific: Melanesia Discoverer

• Watch lifetime species on remote islands where few have been before.
• The birding potential is exceptional with many highlights including the Manus Friarbird, Mussau Monarch and the Paradise drango.
• Endemic to the Solomon Islands we will be on the lookout for the Roviana Rail and Solomon Sea Eagle.
• An opportunities available to them there will be an optional specialised birding programme with customised excursions.
• Explore Mussa Island which represents one of the western-most extensions of the Lapita culture

Papua New Guinea New Britain Extension I

• Explore to Kimbe Bay base where you will Watch bird of various sites from, including Garu Forest Reserve
• Visit some of the smaller islets for the island endemics and specialties.
• Explore New Britain Boobook, rare and elusive Bismarck Kingfisher, Black-tailed Monarch, active Ashy the attractive Red-banded Flowerpecker, Velvet Flycatcher and many more species

All Papua New Guinea , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Papua New Guinea

Small Group Papua New Guinea Tours

Mt. Hagen Show Tour Panorama

• Enjoy bird watching at Lake Murray is one of the best areas in the Province.
• Visit villages such as Mumeri and Mindimbit, where the people are prolific carvers
• Enjoy a full day of cultural and ecological touring
• You will Spend the day enjoying the Mt. Hagen Show, world famous for its color, culture, and sheer vibrance

Canoes & Drums

• Experience the colour, sound and drama of the Kenu & Kundu Festival in Alotau
• Explore the war history of Milne Bay
• Paddle the tropical fjords of Tufi in an outrigger canoe
• Search for Birds of Paradise in the Western Highlands
• Learn about traditions of witchcraft & sorcery, see the Asaro Mudmen, and experience a traditional Moo-moo in the Highlands

Masks & Magic

• Immerse yourself in the art, colour and dance of Rabaul’s Mask Festival
• Uncover the history of Rabaul - from German & Australian Colonial capital, to Japanese war-time stronghold
• See the smouldering Mt Tavurvur overlooking Rabaul, and have the chance climb to the volcanic crater

Best Papua New Guinea Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Papua New Guinea Tours by Price

Top Papua New Guinea Attractions & Experiences

Papua New Guinea Tours & Travel Guide

Papua New Guinea Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Papua new guinea reviews & ratings.

Christopher

I highly recommend Intrepid tours.

The two Intrepid treks I’ve been on (Peru and Papua New Guinea) are run by local people, and they took me to local places. I learnt something about locals’ lives; an...

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!!

This trip was probably the hardest thing I have ever done, but the feeling of accomplishment once arriving at Owers' Corner can't be beaten. The porters are amazing ...

Doing the Kokoda track was an amazing

Doing the Kokoda track was an amazing experience that I would recommend to anyone and there were many good things about the intrepid group however there were a few t...

The Kokoda Track trip was fantastic. It

The Kokoda Track trip was fantastic. It was very different to any other trip previously taken. The history and local knowledge was fabulous and the small trekking gr...

Papua New Guinea is a photographers paradise

Papua New Guinea is a photographers paradise, with plenty of opportunities on this trip to meet the locals, enjoy the amazing Mask Festival, and explore volcanic lan...

See all Papua New Guinea reviews

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THE 5 BEST Papua New Guinea Tours & Excursions

Tours in papua new guinea.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Walking Tours
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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eastcape Drive Tour

2. Cultural and Local Village Experience in Papua New Guinea

3. ADVENTURE KOKODA 8 Day History Trek Australian Led

4. Private Port Moresby City Tour

5. ADVENTURE KOKODA 10-Day Premium Kokoda Campaign Trek Australian Led

6. 11 Day Kokoda Trek From Port Moresby

7. ADVENTURE KOKODA 8 Day Kokoda Trail Trek

8. 7 Nights Tawali Leisure Tours Package

9. 7 Nights Diving Tour in Milne Bay in Alotau

What travellers are saying.

• About PNG (incl map)
• Travellers Info
• Port Moresby Airport
• Cultural Festival Overview 2024
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• Mount Hagen Festival 2024
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• Kalam Festival 2024
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Welcome to Trans Niugini Tours

"papua new guinea's leading inbound tour operator"....

Established over 35 years ago, we are the only inbound tour operator that not only owns and manages a selection of award-winning Wilderness Lodges, but also our very own fleet of aircraft, vehicles and boats. We can proudly assure you of the highest levels of safety, reliability and consistently excellent standards of service while you relax and savor the adventure that is Papua New Guinea.

Discover how easy Papua New Guinea can be!!

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Papua New Guinea Tours

2024 / 2025

We have two confirmed Papua New Guinea tours per year. Don’t worry – we’ve chosen the best!

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Mount Hagen & Goroka Festival Tours

Come visit one of the world’s great civilisations as they celebrate the Mount Hagen and Goroka Festivals in style.

Every August & September, previously warring tribes come together in peace and friendship to show off their individuality. It’s a spectacle full of colour song and dance.

We’ll kick off the tour in Port Moresby – PNG’s seaside capital city before flying into Mount Hagan and the Central Highlands. Here we’ll visit local villages and schools and take part in a traditional mumu feast!

Then comes the trip highlight – 2 full days at the Mount Hagen or Goroka festival – Plus we make sure to get there early for some behind the scenes access!

That’s not all! We’ll also journey deeper into the highlands, visiting the town of Lae before flying back to Port Moresby.

Take a look at the itinerary below. Spaces are extremely limited so sign up today!

Village Life We'll spend a day at a rural village with local families. Mumu Lunch Traditional PNG way of cooking. Rocks are heated on fire and then thrown into a pit to cook a feast. Mount Hagen Festival Two full days at the incredible Mount Hagen Festival. Behind the Scenes We'll arrive early enough to the catch the festival preparations. We'll mingle with participants as they paint their faces and prepare costumes! Goroka Travel to Goroka and visit the skeleton tribe! Where? Port Moresby – Mount Hagen – Goroka – Port Moresby When? Every August & September. Visa? PNG has an e-visa system in place. We will send you an invitation letter which allows you to apply for the visa online. Tour   Itineraries

Itinerary August 2024

Travel to Port Moresby before flying onto Mount Hagen for the main event. Finish up with a trip to Goroka!

• Aug 13 - 20th, 2024

Itinerary September 2024

We start in Port Morseby before flying onto Mount Hagen and then Goroka for the 2-day festival!

• Sept 10 - 16th, 2024

Itinerary August 2025

Travel to Port Moresby before flying onto Mount Hagen & the surrounding villages. Finish up with a trip to Goroka!

• Aug 12 - 19th, 2025

Itinerary September 2025

We start in Port Morseby before flying onto Mount Hagen and then Goroka for the world famous 2-day festival!

• Sept 16 - 22nd, 2025

Sample Itinerary

Port Moresby – Mount Hagen – Goroka – Lae – Port Moresby.

Day 1 - Port Moresby

• Own arrival in the capital Port Morseby and transfer to the hotel.
• In the early afternoon we’ll do a city tour – Visit the Parliament house, National Museum and Arts gallery.
• Group Dinner.
• Overnight in Port Moresby.

Day 2 - Mount Hagen

• Early morning ride to the airport to catch our flight to Mt. Hagen.
• Upon arrival, we will meet our local guides and transfer to the hotel/guesthouse.
• After check-in, we will check out Mt Hagen’s main market where you can see all kinds of tribal artefacts unique to the New Guinea highlands.
• Afterwards we head out into the surrounding mountains and we will see birds of paradise, highland echidnas and cassowaries if we’re lucky.
• Head back to Mt Hagen for dinner and overnight.

Day 3 - Mount Hagen

• We go deep into the highlands to a local village.
• The villagers will prepare a pig mumu lunch for us. This involves the slaughtering of a pig, which is then prepared and cooked in a hole under hot rocks. While we wait for it to cook, the villagers will introduce us to different customs and traditional skills such as fire making and archery.
• After a massive feast, we will go for a trek to the nearby waterfall where we can swim and enjoy the ice cold water.
• Head back to Mt. Hagen for dinner at the Kaibar, a local hole in the wall restaurant.
• Overnight in Mt Hagen.

Day 4 - Mount Hagen

• After breakfast we will drive out to the Luglamp community.
• We’ll mingle with villagers of this community at the school’s cultural day. It is like a mini-Mount Hagen festival organised by students and teachers. Contrary to the actual Mount Hagen Festival, we will definitely be the only foreigners in sight!
• Drive back to Mt. Hagen.
• Visit a local coffee plantation and factory. Mount Hagen is world renowned for the quality of the beans they produce.
• We head back to the city for dinner at the Highlander Hotel.

Day 5 - Mount Hagen

• Today is the big festival day! We head to the local rugby ground which will host the Mount Hagen festival. We get there early enough to witness the participants preparing their costumes.
• We can partake in some traditional games and slap on some face paint (extra charge)
• After the show we will head back to the hotel for dinner.

Day 6 - Mount Hagen

• Another day at the show with more dancing, mingling and incredible photo opportunities. 
• Night out in Mt Hagen to celebrate the end of the festival.

Day 7 - Goroka

• We leave Mount Hagen to see more of the highlands region.
• Lunch along the way at Mt Wilheam Hotel in Simbu Province.
• We’ll meet the Mindima Skeleton Tribes – Ancestors of this tribe were afraid of a monster in a cave, so to attack the monster they disguised themselves as skeletons which apparently worked!
• We stop by the J.K McCarthy Museum in the city which is made up of several rooms showcasing everything from WWII relics and traditional PNG objects.
• Overnight in Goroka.

Day 8 - Lae

• Drive to the beautiful coastal town of Lae through mountains and dense jungle. It’s also PNG’s most important port.
• This is where some of the fiercest fighting took place between the Australian and Japanese forces during World War II.
• Picnic lunch in the Ramu Valley.
• City tour of Lae including a visit to the WWII cemetery. See the shipwreck of the Myoko Maru & Japanese War Memorial.
• Dinner and overnight in Lae.

Day 9 - Port Moresby

• We take the early Air Niugini flight from Lae to Port Moresby.
• End of tour. 

**Due to limited domestic flight availability, especially in this period – Early booking is advised. If booking late then the tour cost is liable to increase in line with the flight prices. **

Hotels Hostel accommodation in twin share. Entrance fees All entrance fees including the 2-day festival ticket. (unless otherwise stated) Guides Both an expert local guide and english speaking tour leader. Transport All transport in country to complete the itinerary. 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Meals Meals are not included. Visa Fee Visa & visa fees. 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• Description

Papua New Guinea Tours - FAQs

Most frequent questions and answers for our tours to png..

The areas which we visit on this tour are considered safe. We research the security of our destinations highly and safety is a priority, however  we also advise you to do your own research as well to ensure you are comfortable with your trip.

Travel insurance is a must. We have teamed up with IATI Travel Insurance because they provide cover for all our destinations. You’ll also automatically receive a 5% discount with them as a Rocky Road Travel customer.

Currently there are direct flights to Port Moresby from Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila, Cairns, Sydney and Brisbane.

USD cash is the most widely accepted.

Some ATMs will work and credit cards are accepted in many places.

Group size will be no more than 12 travellers.

We will be staying in standard hotel/guesthouses with twin room sharing.

Not at all! We can cater to all diets.

📞 +491635158517 ✉️ [email protected]

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PNG Experience Tours

Konnecting kultures, who are we, png experience offer intimate tour experiences that connect you with the culture of the wonderful png people..

Our fully escorted local tours ensure that every traveller has a personalised, unforgettable holiday experience.

PNG Experience was formed to create a unique and intimate travel experience for the modern traveller, seeking to immerse themselves within the culture, history, cuisine, landscapes and seascapes of one of the last untouched frontiers, Papua New Guinea.

Our tour guides are all local, knowledgeable and passionate about the communities we travel in. They are dedicated to delivering an authentic, personal experience, with great insight into local history, culture, customs and mythology.

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE

Our range of fully escorted tour options ensure you can experience the magic of papua new guinea your own way. from kayaking through rolling surf breaks, savouring mouth-watering local seafood, to discovering the lost relics of wwii… there’s a tour for every traveller..

Photography tours

PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS PNG Experience runs photography tours to Tufi, Madang and the East Sepik regions.

World War II History Tour

WWII HISTORY TOURS PNG’s history is deeply entwined with both WWI and WWII, rich in relics and local stories of these conflicts.

School Expedition Tour

SCHOOL EXPEDITION TOUR School groups are challenged to research, design, and implement a village-based project in Madang Province.

Culture & festival tours

CULTURE & FESTIVAL TOURS PNG Experience pride ourselves on our ability to provide unique cultural journeys through Papua New Guinea’s various provinces.

Madang Paddle Odyssey

MADANG PADDLE ODYSSEY TOUR Adventurous travellers looking to experience Papua New Guinea, from a unique perspective, look no further than this kayaking paddle tour.

Upcoming tours

UPCOMING TOURS PNG Experience pride ourselves on our ability to provide unique cultural journeys through Papua New Guinea’s various provinces.  

WHY TRAVEL WITH PNG EXPERIENCE?

Our local knowledge, family history and relationships connect travellers directly with authentic local png communities for a unique, unforgettable travel experience., our tours offer in-depth experiences with the unique wildlife, geography, history and culture of the madang and sepik regions., our expertise in logistics in remote areas of png ensure you spend your time immersed in your tour experience, not arranging your next connection., we pride ourselves on sustainable, ethical relationships with our local contacts. our long term goal is to ensure that local communities benefit greatly from tourism investment from the grassroots up., our tour guides are passionate about the local culture, communities and environment and delivering unique, personal experiences for our travellers..

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Papua New Guinea

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Advance Native Tours would like to welcome you to your next fabulous adventure by showcasing the amazing destination of PNG.

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Advance Native Tours are a fully insured and registered entity in both Papua New Guinea and Australia.

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Papua New Guinea is a unique destination offering visitors an experience which is unparalleled in this modern world.

It’s a spectacular world in which we live

Oro oro oro.

We at Advance Native Tours are pleased and excited to be one of the very first to offer you this traditional welcome, signalling the start of your next fantastic adventure, be it a Kokoda Trek , a visit to the amazing mud men of Asaro or a laid back escape on a pristine white beach or over-water bungalow.

Please feel free to sit back and browse our web site, where we will share with you, how we will make this adventure so very memorable and thank you for dropping by!

Roy, Gary and Ian

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Papua New Guinea

After our first research trip to Papua New Guinea in August 2023, we are now back with an expanded version for 2024! We are testing out new regions on this tour so it will be considered a second research trip, with a smaller group size than our usual tours. * We have now also added a departure for 2025. Please note the itinerary for this tour is subject to change and will only be finalised once our tour in August 2024 is completed. Our tour is focused around the Mount Hagen festival but we'll also be taking in Port Moresby, Lae, Goroka and the Mindima skeleton tribe. Please contact us for further information.

Upcoming Tours

Our current upcoming group tours can be seen below. They are all guaranteed departures.

Our Papua New Guinea tours are planned to depart every August to coincide with the Mount Hagen show.

Our tour in 2024 is a second research tour, expanding on our 2023 tour by adding two extra areas to visit.

An e-visa is required for Papua New Guinea, we provide a letter of invitation to assist with this.

The price for this tour is £2,095 on a twin room basis.

Single supplement is £350. We can also allocate someone for you to share with (subject to availability).

Deposit required to confirm your booking is £500.

This tour is currently full.

To be added to the waiting list, please fill out the form below.

Please agreed to the T&Cs.

Privacy Overview

Tribal Lands of Papua New Guinea

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One of the most culturally diverse countries on the planet, Papua New Guinea is home to more than 850 known languages. One of the least explored countries anywhere in the world, both culturally and geographically, Papua New Guinea has adventure written all over it! This stunning journey allows us the opportunity to experience its astonishingly rich natural landscape and cultural traditions.

First we’ll travel down the Sepik River to visit the crocodile people and learn about their fascinating ...

First we’ll travel down the Sepik River to visit the crocodile people and learn about their fascinating traditions, before venturing up to the Bismarck region to experience remote village life with the Simbai people. Ending our journey we will witness the spectacular Tribal Festivals, which are some of Papua New Guinea's most celebrated events before making our way back to Port Moresby and, eventually home.

At a glance

On this tour we will use minibuses, motorised canoe, and domestic flights.

EXPERT TEAM

Accommodation, entrance fees, fitness rating.

As an overall ethos, wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience, not just offers a bed for the night. This can obviously vary dramatically from country to country and from trip to trip. On this particular trip we will be in hotels, homestays in the Sepik River region, community owned guesthouses and , a jungle lodge. Please note that conditions in the Sepik River region will be very primitive with shared long houses and river washing or bucket style washing. In the Simbai Village at the community owned guesthouse, which is charming but basic, there will be shared showers and toilets. Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.

Wild Miles Club

When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:

Positive Impact of this Trip

Map & itinerary.

Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below

Day 1 Tour begins in Port Moresby; fly to Wewak

Starting in the country’s capital early this morning (08:00) we will meet at the airport and have a chance to enjoy a reviving breakfast. Depending on the flight time, we may have time for a little sightseeing, before flying on to Wewak on the northern coast of New Guinea. The capital of the East Sepik province, Wewak provides the gateway into the swamplands and tropical rainforests of the Sepik River, New Guinea’s longest river. On arrival we will be transferred to our comfortable boutique hotel, where the rest of the day is free to relax from the long journey.

Day 2 Wewak to Sepik River

After meeting up with our local guides this morning, we then embark on a four-hour drive to Pagwi, on the Sepik River. From here we travel down river by motor canoe, a journey of some two hours that brings us to the village of Kanganamun, in the heart of the Middle Sepik. This region is home to the famous crocodile-men of Yatmoul, whose rituals include marking the skin in deep cuts to resemble the teeth marks of the great crocodile spirit. Their immense spirit houses are considered cathedrals of primitive art and on arrival we will be settled with our hosts in basic homestay accommodation.

Day 3 Sepik River

Spending the day exploring the Middle Sepik region, today we have an opportunity to visit at least a couple of traditional dance ceremonies, as well as a number of different spirit houses and villages. Travelling by motorised canoe, we will explore some of villages to learn more about the traditions of their initiation ceremonies of the local people, before continuing on to Palembe, where we take a short walk to one of the oldest Haus Tambarans in the Sepik region. NB, Please be aware that the course and content of today’s visits are very much dependent on the safety conditions and water levels along the river.

Day 4 Sepik - Abelam - Wewak

We depart our village this morning and reach Pagwi, where our bus takes us to an Abelam village near Maprik. Here we encounter one of the Abelam tribes who live in the Bismarck range, and are known for their incredible skills to grow giant yams, celebrated in their Yam festivals. They are also renown for their fantastic Spirit houses and dances, both of which you will witness during our visit. After a local lunch in the village, we return to Wewak and our comfortable hotel.

Day 5 Wewak - Mt Hagen

Today we take a short flight on to Mount Hagen in the heart of the Western Highlands. Located amongst the fertile landscapes of the Wahgi Valley, the city is named after the eroded volcanic peak of Mount Hagen. Activities today will be dependent on flight times. On arrival in Hagen we can settle into our hotel.

Day 6 Mount Hagen - Birdwatching - Mount Hagen

We have a very early start this morning to prepare us for our bird-watching experience, where we will have the chance to spot the Bird of Paradise. Leaving at 4am we will drive for just under an hour to reach our destination before heading on foot to reach the birding spots. We will then return to our hotel for breakfast before departing for Kumul Lodge where we can enjoy time in the beautiful gardens and will have our lunch here. Kumul Lodge is one of the few bird lodges in PNG that where the Bird of Paradise is regularly spotted. We will have a chance to observe more birds at the feeding station from the balcony including Brehm's Tiger Parrot, Smoky Honeyeater and Island Thrush. In the afternoon you might wish to take a walk to the nearby waterfall or stay at the lodge looking for more birds. We then return back to Hagen for our dinner and overnight.

Day 7 Mt Hagen - Simbai Village

This morning we take a short charter flight to reach Simbai, a remote governmental station in the Bismarck range. Up here, there is a very limited infrastructure away from any roads and the life of the local people is still very traditional. From the air strip it’s a 30 minute walk to the nearby village where we stay in a charming guest house, surrounded by beautiful gardens, for the next three nights. In Simbai we experience a living culture of this tribe, who have impressive body adornments and will have plenty of opportunity to learn about their lives and traditions. We will have the chance to explore on foot the beautiful surrounding area, as well as our host village and the local school.

Days 8 - 9 Simbai Village

Over these two days we get a chance to share in the daily life of the village. The Kalam wear impressive helmets covered in beetle heads so during our time here we will see how the famous beetle head headdresses are prepared. We will step back in time to learn more about the ancient culture and rituals of this tribe, which are in their 8th generation. On one of the days we will witness the festival atmosphere as the village ladies prepare food for a “mumu” feast, when a whole pig is skillfully butchered and cooked on hot stones in the ground. The opening of the mumu is celebrated with a traditional ‘singsing’, which for the villagers could last long into the night!

Day 10 Simbai Village - Mount Hagen

Today we say farewell to the Simbai community and depart the Northern Highlands and take a privately chartered flight back to Mount Hagen. Depending on the arrival time of our flight we may have lunch and a short coffee tour at Banz Coffee, one of New Guinea famous roasters, or a visit to Rondon Ridge for lunch and an afternoon walk. After our activity we will return to Mount Hagen for the night with some time to relax at our comfortable hotel.

Day 11 Mount Hagen - Goroka

Considered one of PNG’s most attractive towns, Goroka lies some five hours by road from Mount Hagen. Each year, around the country’s independence celebrations (16 September), the town hosts the famous Goroka Show, a two-day cultural event that sees tribes from all across the region gather to take part in one of the most colourful festivals in the country. Today we get to journey east along the Highlands Highway across the mountains and fertile vegetable gardens of the region. The Central Highlands provide ample opportunities to stop and enjoy the landscapes, before we finally arrive in Goroka later this afternoon.

Day 12 Goroka Festival

With a whole weekend to enjoy this spectacular festival, we’ll have an opportunity to watch some 1,000 men and women partake in one of Papua New Guinea’s most celebrated events. Over 100 different tribes are represented, in a dazzling display of colour, songs and energy that perfectly encapsulates the rich cultural ethnicity of this remarkable island.

Day 13 Goroka - Port Moresby

There will be more time to take in the sights and sounds of this stunning annual event before departing Goroka on a late afternoon flight back to Port Moresby for the evening. Later we enjoy our farewell dinner and our final night in the capital.

Day 14 Tour ends Port Moresby

We have a relaxing morning before heading to the airport where the tour ends.

ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR

In wewak boutique hotel, wewak.

Located up on Wewak Hill with stunning views over the Bismarck Sea, In Wewak Boutique Hotel is a lovely option and within walking distance of Wewak town. The hotel offers a range of rooming, all of which include a private en suite bathroom, TV, WIFI, fridge and air-conditioning. On site there are two restaurants where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed and air-conditioned setting. There's a small pool to enjoy some downtime, and the welcoming staff are wonderful and will do all they can to make your stay as comfortable as possible. 

Sepik Homestay, Sepik River

This will certainly be a highlight of any trip to Papua New Guinea as you get to stay with a local host family and experience real life along the Sepik River. Being a local homestay, facilities will be very basic, with mattresses on the floor of shared rooms and shared outdoor drop toilets. There are no washing facilities and therefore we strongly advise bringing your own means to freshen up, as well as sleeping bag liners, but mosquito nets will be provided. Your local guide will bring food to cook up on site as options are very limited in the area. Time spent in this remote area really is very special, as you meet the local communities and learn about different beliefs and traditions of the people.

Hotel Rating

Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.

PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?

All group tours can be taken on a private basis.

Additional Details

Responsible travel.

With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit. When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.  Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.

Simbai Village Visit

Large tracts of Papua New Guinea are populated by local people with limited infrastructure and access to the outside world. On our trips we incorporate a visit to Simbai which is situated in the Bismarck range where the life of the local Kalam people is very simple. We arrange with the head of the village to make a visit to the local school where the group are introduced to the students and we organise question and answer sessions to understand more about the culture and lifestyle. Clients are encouraged to donate pencils, notebooks and rulers as well folders, diaries and dictionaries for the pupils and teachers. Sports equipment such as volleyballs, netballs, rugby balls and footballs are also very well received! As well as this good interaction is experienced by initiating a meeting forum for all the villagers to come and meet the group and exchange life stories, hope and dreams along with welfare concerns. These visits are always really powerful for all and creates a far greater human bond for locals and visitors alike.

For the future we will try and offer support and assistance to the village for some community development projects.

Reducing Single Use Plastic

We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)

Getting There

If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below. Please note that as the group flights are not through tickets and therefore not protected for delays or cancellations, we recommend that clients make either an overnight stop in Singapore on the outbound and inbound leg of the journey or allow for a minimum of a 12 hour transit time to allow for any flight issues.

If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.  

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa For this tour UK passport holders currently require a visa for Papua New Guinea . Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour. Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements. VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is a mandatory requirement for all travellers to Papua New Guinea.

For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.  Malaria is present in some parts of Papua New Guinea and precautions are essential. For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk Covid Testing : No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers. If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration. The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.

*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert

Governmental Travel Advice

Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department . Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.

Key Information

Papua New Guinea boasts a warm to hot and humid climate throughout the year. Temperatures generally average between 25C to 32C, when visiting the highlands regions colder temperatures of average 10C - 15C can be expected. Relative humidity is high and ranges between 70 to 90 percent. Each province experiences a rainy season in the summer months but the driest time is from May to November. Typhoons can hit Papua New Guinea from December to mid-March, and can sometimes cause heavy damage, flooding and erosion.

IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

It may sound obvious but Wild Frontiers tours are not always for everyone and it is important to us that the tour you choose is the most suitable. All our tours have a fitness rating as a guideline but you should check the day-by-day itinerary carefully. In certain instances we may ask you to complete a travel questionnaire before confirming your booking in order to ensure your suitability. Should you have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour then please contact the office.

KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER

This is an adventurous trip in an undeveloped country so a sense of humour and flexibility are a pre-requisite. If you are in a reasonable state of health and fitness you should be able to cope with this tour. However, please note that the conditions in the Sepik River are extremely basic with few frills, and the accommodation is shared and rustic at best. The roads and infrastructure are poor and drives can be long and tiring even though distances are short. Some food in the most remote regions may be limited in terms of variety. You will have a couple of days sitting in motorised canoes. If you are up for the challenge you will be hugely rewarded!

THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL

We feel that it’s worth pointing out that while we will always strive to stick as close to the stated itinerary as possible, it may be necessary from time to time to make changes to our itineraries or services (due to weather, political and religious influences etc.) and this can happen with little or no notice. This unpredictability can be one of the most exciting aspects of adventure travel and for many of our clients often leads to unexpected highlights as the tour-leader necessarily adapts the tour to the changing conditions. However we are aware that this lack of assuredness may not suit everyone. As such, with the greatest respect, if you are someone who needs to know that everything will happen exactly as planned, we would kindly suggest that perhaps our tours are not for you. Adventure travel can be infectious and once you’ve caught the bug, it is likely to never leave you, but especially if this is your first such tour we would strongly urge you to give us a call if you have any concerns whatsoever about your suitability for this trip.

TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!

Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.

On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour except for the two nights on the Sepik River and the three nights in the Simbai Village where we stay in village guest houses. During the locations with festival nights single rooms are unavailable due to limited bed space at this time.

Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.  

Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.

General Information

All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.

A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking.

PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY

For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page

This tour will earn you 17996 Wild Miles

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour. Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights Beverages & any costs of a personal nature : This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY

If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events. 

WHY WILD FRONTIERS?

We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.

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• Experience East New Britain’s Cultural Marvels: 6-Day Shell Money Festival Photography Tour
• Experience Papua New Guinea’s Vibrant Culture: 7-Day National Mask and Warwagira Festival
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Welcome to Our Official Website

Hello, we are Tolai people welcoming you to Rabaul and offering you tours with all facts, our way of life, and a bit of fun. Join our experienced tour guides in our air conditioned buses for tours to remember!

Rabaul Scenic Tours is based in Rabaul, East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. It is an indigenous registered business 100% nationally owned, under the community participation concept, which is of Tolai culture. We are situated in the island of Matupit in Rabaul, the scenic port that overlooks the volcanoes (Mt. Tavurvur and Mt. Vulcan) that erupted in 1994. We host war relics sites, volcanic hot springs, volcanic craters, fumaroles solidified lava, natural beauty both on land and underwater.

BITAPAKA WAR CEMETERY  

The Rabaul (Bitapaka) War Cemetery,  established in 1945, is located near the site of the former Bitapaka wireless station south of the city of Rabaul, New Britain, in Papua New Guinea. The cemetery is managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

KOKOPO WAR MUSEUM

The Kokopo War Museum officially the East New Britain Historical and Cultural Centre Kokopo Museum was established in the early 1980’s as a small museum inside the Anti-Aircraft and Search Light Command Bunker (aka Yamamoto Bunker or The Admiral’s Bunker) in Rabaul.

JAPANESE MONUMENT

The Japanese Memorial Monument is built on ash- covered Namanula Hill and is the main Japanese World War II Memorial in the Pacific. It has great views over Rabaul and the harbor. There is a hole in the structure that allows sunlight to fall on the simple stone shine in the center.

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Kiunga Nature Tours

Kiunga Nature Tours is one of Papua New Guinea’s leading bird watching tour operators, locally owned and operated by Samuel Kepuknai and his team.

See our brilliant birds in their natural habitat – birds-of-paradise, bowerbirds, satinbirds, fruit doves and more!

Birding season in Papua New Guinea is best in the drier months of the year, April to October.

For bookings and further information email: [email protected] or call +675 548 1451

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Papua New Guinea Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Papua New Guinea by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Papua New Guinea will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

11 Papua New Guinea small group tours with 17 reviews

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The Kokoda Track

Base Camp was an epic, challenging adventure - made all the better for our excellent guides: leader Hem, and assistant guides Mekh & Indra. Our safety and welfare was their #1 priority, and made sure we were looked after all the way! Spending time acclimatising, and enjoying the hospitality of the owners of the teahouses was a great experience. The scenery was just 'wow moment' every day, and we all made it to Base Camp with the exception of one (very important to train beforehand, as it is more likely you will make it the whole way) I would highly recommend Intrepid Travel for your Everest Base Camp trip!

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Australian Led Kokoda

Just finished trekking Kokoda last Wednesday An exceptional experience superbly led by Robyn and her group of Porters . Would recommend the trip to everyone young and old. Every attention to our care, meals , health, wellbeing and fitness was first class. Meeting and travelling thru the villages was a privilege and to have Robyn share her knowledge and feelings for our Aussie soldiers fighting the Japanese on the Kokoda Track was a privilege. We are a lucky country but could learn a few lessons from these villagers.

Papua New Guinea Sepik Explorer

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Goroka Festival and Asaro Mudmen Day trip 5-night Tour - Bird of Paradise Hotel

Wonderful experience

Papua New Guinea Goroka Show and Kalam Cultural Festival

Was a mind opening... unforgettable experience

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Tigak Sea Kayaking

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Crocodile Men, Birds of Paradise and Wig Warriors

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Australia and Papua New Guinea leaders trek toward WWII South Pacific battleground

In this image supplied by the Australian Prime Ministers office, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, centre right, walks with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape as they start their trek along the Kokoda Track at Kokoda Village, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The prime ministers on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their current security alliance that is challenged by China’s growing regional influence. (Prime Ministers office via AP)

In this image supplied by the Australian Prime Ministers office, villagers perform a traditional welcome ceremony for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese prior to his walk with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape along the Kokoda Track at Kokoda Village, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The prime ministers on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their current security alliance that is challenged by China’s growing regional influence. (Prime Ministers office via AP)

In this image supplied by the Australian Prime Ministers office, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, left, walks with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, James Marape as they start their trek along the Kokoda Track at Kokoda Village, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The prime ministers on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their current security alliance that is challenged by China’s growing regional influence. (Prime Ministers office via AP)

In this image supplied by the Australian Prime Ministers office, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese starts his walk along the Kokoda Track at Kokoda Village, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Albanese and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their security alliance that is challenged by China’s growing regional influence. (Prime Ministers office via AP)

In this image supplied by the Australian Prime Ministers office, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, right, and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape watch as local villagers performa traditional welcome before they start their walk along the Kokoda Track at Kokoda Village, Papua New Guinea, Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The prime ministers on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their current security alliance that is challenged by China’s growing regional influence. (Prime Ministers office via AP)

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MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Australia and Papua New Guinea’s prime ministers on Tuesday began trekking into the South Pacific island nation’s mountainous interior to commemorate a pivotal World War II campaign and to underscore their current security alliance , which faces challenges from China’s growing regional influence.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese received an elaborate traditional welcome when he arrived by helicopter at Kokoda Village with his Papua New Guinean counterpart James Marape.

The pair will walk 15 kilometers (9 miles) over two days along the rugged Kokoda Track where the Japanese army’s advance toward what is now the national capital, Port Moresby, was halted in 1942 in the wilds of the Owen Stanley Range.

“In forging a relationship of brothers and sisters, together as one we will go forward,” Albanese told Australian Broadcasting Corp. as the pair set off from the village in tropical heat and humidity.

“We’re walking step by step, symbolizing our two nations walking together,” Albanese added.

Marape said their “shared journey today should send the world a message” that Papua New Guinea wants peaceful coexistence.

Australia and its nearest neighbor, Papua New Guinea , forged closer defense ties in December when Albanese and Marape signed a wide-ranging agreement in the Australian capital, Canberra.

The signing was delayed by six months after a security pact between Papua New Guinea and the United States sparked riots in the South Pacific nation over concerns that Papuan sovereignty was being undermined.

Marape said in December that his government’s security agreements with the U.S. and Australia did not mean he was siding with those allies in their strategic competition with China.

Albanese said Marape had assured him during at state dinner in Port Moresby on Monday night that Australia remained its “referred security partner.”

“This is a relationship that has never been closer, as symbolized by the fact that we’ll be walking side-by-side down the Kokoda Track,” Albanese told ABC in Port Moresby on Tuesday before flying to Kokoda Village.

Joe Biden had planned to become the first sitting U.S. president to visit Papua New Guinea in May last year, in a sign of the region’s growing strategic importance in the power struggle between the U.S. and China. But Biden canceled the visit to deal with a debt crisis in the U.S. Congress.

On top of disappointing Marape last year, Biden offended the prime minister last week by implying that the president’s army aviator uncle, Second Lt. Ambrose J. Finnegan Jr., had been eaten by “cannibals” after his plane crashed in Papua New Guinea during World War II.

Marape released a statement on Sunday saying that his “people daily live with the fear” of unexploded bombs left behind by a war that they had been “needlessly dragged into.”

Marape and Albanese will trek to a war memorial in the town of Isurava, the site of a bloody battle where U.S. and Australian troops fought the Japanese in August 1942.

Both leaders will commemorate Anzac Day at Isurava on Thursday, April 25 — the date in 1915 when the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed on Turkey in an ill-fated campaign that provided the soldiers’ first combat of World War I.

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Papua New Guinea was 'blessed' with a visit by China just a day ago. Anthony Albanese is hot on their tail

Analysis Papua New Guinea was 'blessed' with a visit by China just a day ago. Anthony Albanese is hot on their tail

It's becoming a fairly regular pattern now in Papua New Guinea that foreign leaders appear to visit within a short window of time from one another.

China's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, will have departed Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport just over 24 hours before Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese touches down for an extended visit to walk the Kokoda Track.

PNG prime minister James Marape summed it up neatly on Sunday morning:

"They didn't plan to be back-to-back … but PNG is blessed," he told reporters.

While relations between Canberra and Beijing are thawing, there's still considerable geo-political posturing taking place in the South Pacific.

Mr Wang spent the weekend in Port Moresby for meetings with Mr Marape and PNG's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, with the two nations signing several agreements, relating to trade and information communication technology.

In his remarks following a bilateral meeting on Saturday, Minister Wang took aim at Australia and the AUKUS partnership – a security relationship for the Indo-Pacific region between Australia, the US and UK — claiming it "instigated division … not in line with the urgent needs of Pacific Island countries."

He also said that China saw Pacific Island countries as an "indispensable partner", with assistance given to countries without "strings attached", or an "imposition of our will."

And in a not-so-veiled swipe at language used by former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison, Mr Wang said Pacific Islands weren't the "backyard of any major country."

Just as Mr Wang was departing, Mr Marape spoke to reporters about the strengthening relationship between PNG and China.

But Australian officials will be elated at what Mr Marape had to say ahead of the Australian prime minister's visit.

"Australia-PNG relationship is also second to none," he said.

As PNG looks ahead, Australia reminds of the past

While the long-running Pacific diplomacy of Papua New Guinea has been an attitude of "friends to all, enemies to none", it appears PNG is marking clear lines as to what it's seeking from those friends.

With a population that largely lives on customary land that can be used for agricultural purposes, PNG sees the access to large export markets as a key to its economic empowerment.

Beijing is happy to oblige, with the two nations signing agreements that would allow PNG to more easily export cocoa and coffee beans.

"This will allow 80 per cent of our population that are self-reliant farmers the opportunity now to access one of the biggest markets in the world," Mr Tkatchenko said after the signing.

Chinese companies also have considerable interest in PNG's resources, notably its gold and liquid natural gas.

In an historic speech to Australia's parliament earlier this year, Mr Marape spoke about its pursuit of greater economic strength, to cut back on its dependence on development assistance.

In this respect, it sees China as a crucial partner.

"Trade supersedes aid and grants, we engaged in conversation to build a stronger economy in our country," Mr Marape said on Sunday of the bilateral talks with China.

The next few days, however, will highlight Australia and PNG's inalienable historic security ties, with a walk of the Kokoda Track by both prime ministers.

During the two-day trek, Mr Albanese will be focusing on the shared "service and sacrifice" of the two nations.

The trip will be laden with symbolism, as Mr Albanese looks to the past to build relationships in the Pacific to deal with contemporary challenges posed by China's growing presence in the region.

While Solomon Islands has signed policing and security agreements with Beijing, PNG officials have since gone to lengths to assure officials in Canberra that no security or policing deals were being worked on with Beijing.

Meanwhile, Australia and PNG continue to carry out construction of police infrastructure as part of a bilateral security agreement, and the joint redevelopment of PNG's Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island.

Leaders take to Kokoda to honour shared history

Ahead of the walk, Mr Marape has described the opportunity for the two men, whom he describes as "good friends", as an "honour".

"The ANZAC spirit is as much ours as it is Australian and New Zealand's," he said.

"I will very much be privileged to walk that leg of the journey until the prime minister decides to call it enough.

"As the chief host of Prime Minister Albanese, it would be unfair on him and the Australian people if the PM of PNG does not accompany him for his stay in PNG."

Ahead of his departure, Mr Albanese described the Kokoda campaign and the Kokoda Track — where Australian and Papuan infantry battalions fought Japanese soldiers in the Second World War — as "part of our national identity."

"[It is] a defining chapter in the story of those who risked and lost their lives in defence of Australia and in our shared history with Papua New Guinea," he said in a statement.

"Kokoda is a name that lives in Australian legend. It captures the spirit of courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice forged between Australia and Papua New Guinea during World War II.

"Participating in this walk is a solemn way to honour, to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who walked this same ground, people from Papua New Guinea and Australia, serving and sacrificing together in defence of their home."

The walk will conclude with an Anzac Day dawn service in the village of Isurava.

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