The Spirit of the Highlands: Goroka Festival
The Goroka Show, held annually in September, rivals Mount Hagen as PNG’s premier cultural event. This 6-day journey combines the festival with intimate encounters with the legendary Asaro Mudmen and the coffee-growing communities of the Eastern Highlands.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Port Moresby to Goroka
Arrival in Port Moresby, connect to domestic flight to Goroka. Transfer to your lodge nestled in the Eastern Highlands.
Day 2: Goroka Festival – Day 1
First day at the Goroka Cultural Show. Over 90 tribes gather in a kaleidoscope of color. Watch Skeleton Dancers, Mudmen, and feathered warriors perform. The festival atmosphere is electric.
Day 3: Goroka Festival – Day 2
Second day at the festival with different performances. Explore the craft market for authentic bilum bags, wood carvings, and tribal artifacts.
Day 4: Asaro Mudmen Village
Travel to Asaro Valley, home of the fearsome Mudmen. Learn the legend behind their ghostly clay masks. Participate in a traditional mumu (earth oven feast). Witness a private Mudmen performance.
Day 5: Coffee & Kainantu
Tour an organic coffee plantation in the Kainantu region. Visit the Eastern Highlands Cultural Centre. Afternoon pottery-making demonstration with Aiyura village women.
Day 6: Departure
Fly back to Port Moresby for international departure.
Included
- 5 nights accommodation in Goroka lodges
- Domestic flights
- Goroka Festival 2-day pass
- Asaro Mudmen village visit & private performance
- Coffee plantation tour
- Daily breakfast and mumu feast
- Guide and all transfers
