Papua New Guinea Unveiled: From Sepik to Highlands
This comprehensive 10-day journey reveals PNG’s incredible diversity. Cruise the legendary Sepik River past towering spirit houses (Haus Tambaran), trek through the Highlands to meet the Huli Wigmen, and dive coral reefs off Madang. Few travelers see this much of PNG in one trip.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Port Moresby Arrival
Airport welcome and transfer to hotel. Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery.
Day 2: Fly to Mount Hagen & Tari
Flight to Mount Hagen, then onward to Tari in the Southern Highlands. Check into Ambua Lodge.
Day 3: Huli Wigmen Encounter
Full day with the Huli Wigmen — PNG’s most iconic tribe. Witness their elaborate face painting ritual, learn about wig-making traditions that take up to 18 months, and attend a traditional sing-sing.
Day 4: Sepik River – Wewak to Kanganaman
Fly to Wewak, then travel by motorized canoe up the Sepik River. Visit Kanganaman village with its magnificent Haus Tambaran (spirit house), the tallest in the Sepik region.
Day 5: Sepik River – Palembei & Kaminimbit
Explore Palembei and Kaminimbit villages. Witness wood carving masters at work creating elaborate ancestor figures. Evening storytelling session with village elders.
Day 6: Sepik to Madang
Return to Wewak and fly to Madang — “the prettiest town in the South Pacific.” Afternoon snorkeling at Pig Island Marine Reserve.
Day 7: Madang Diving Adventure
Two-tank dive excursion on Madang’s pristine coral reefs. WWII wrecks, hammerhead sharks, and pristine coral gardens await. Non-divers can snorkel or explore Madang’s markets.
Day 8: Madang Highlands Villages
Visit Bilbil village, famous for traditional pottery. Afternoon at Balek Wildlife Sanctuary, home to sulfur-crested cockatoos and cuscus.
Day 9: Return to Port Moresby
Morning at leisure. Fly to Port Moresby. Afternoon visit to the Hanuabada stilt village and Ela Beach Craft Market.
Day 10: Departure
International departure from Port Moresby.
Included
- 9 nights (hotels + lodges + Sepik guesthouses)
- Domestic flights (3 sectors)
- Sepik River motorized canoe expedition (3 days)
- 2-tank dive excursion in Madang
- Huli Wigmen cultural experience
- Most meals
- Professional guide throughout
- All village fees and permits
