Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) comprises the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, second largest in the world, as well as many smaller Pacific islands
and atolls.

The most linguistically diverse country on earth, PNG has more than 850 indigenous languages reflecting at least as many different traditional societies. This cultural variety has given rise to many different forms of expression, including art, carving, dance, singing, music and flamboyant costumes. The colourful cultural heritage is celebrated annually at various shows, including Goroka and Mt Hagen.

Habitats range from dense tropical rainforest to savannah and wetland plains, volcanic mountains to white sand beaches and coral reefs. The forests are home to many rare species of marsupial such as tree kangaroo, insects including the Queen Alexandra birdwing (the world’s largest butterfly) and birds such as the cassowary. However, PNG is best known for its brilliantly coloured birds of paradise, with 38 of the 43 known species found there.

Papua New Guinea is truly one of the world's last travel frontiers. Nature and humanity unite in a heady mix of sights and sounds, and many parts of the country remain blissfully unaffected by the ever-advancing ways of the western world.

When to Go

Papua New Guinea has a very variable tropical climate. The wet season is normally December to March and the dry season, May to October. April and November are considered cusp months when the weather can be unpredictable. In general, the period between June and September tends to be cooler and drier and therefore perhaps the best time to visit. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year in most regions. Average temperature in the lowlands is 27C, while in the highlands it is around 20C

Cultural Shows and Festivals

Throughout the year there are various cultural shows that visitors can attend. They provide an exciting way to experience the diverse cultures of PNG as the shows are usually attended by tribes from across the country. The largest and most famous is the Mount Hagen Show, held annually in August, whilst similar smaller shows are held in various locations such as Goroka and Morobe at other times of the year. During the shows, tribes and clans from across the country perform their individual styles of singing and dancing. NB: Special group itineraries are available which combine the main cultural shows with other locations. Please contact us for further information on group departures.

Port Moresby

The capital, a sprawling coastal city overlooking a beautiful natural harbour, contains the parliament, built in the style of a Haus Tambaran (Sepik-style longhouse), and an interesting national museum. To the north is the Botanical Gardens with beautiful displays of New Guinea's native flora, and on the outskirts the Pacific Adventist University site offers exceptional birding with species such as bowerbird and frogmouth. An on-site guide is available and small fee payable. For anyone interested in birds with a few hours to kill in the Port Moresby area, this location is a must.

Papua New Guinea

When to Go

Cultural Shows and Festivals

Port Moresby

The Amazing Wildlife and Culture of PNG

PNG's Unique Natural History Highlights

Savannahs, Highlands and Islands of PNG