Deep Into the Highlands: Three Provinces, Countless Cultures
Go deeper into PNG’s Highlands than most travelers ever will. This 11-day expedition crosses three provinces — Western Highlands, Simbu (Chimbu), and Enga — each with distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. Encounter the Skeleton Dancers, search for birds of paradise, and witness a way of life unchanged for millennia.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Port Moresby Arrival
Transfer to hotel. Afternoon visit to the Nature Park for an introduction to PNG’s unique wildlife.
Day 2: Fly to Mount Hagen
Flight to Mount Hagen. Afternoon visit to the bustling Hagen Market where Highlanders trade fresh produce and traditional crafts.
Day 3: Wahgi Valley Villages
Visit villages in the fertile Wahgi Valley — PNG’s agricultural heartland. See traditional coffee production and sweet potato gardens. Evening cultural performance.
Day 4: Mount Hagen – Melpa Culture
Full-day immersion in Melpa culture. Witness a traditional bride price ceremony (if available), learn about clan systems, and visit a men’s house.
Day 5: Journey to Kundiawa (Simbu Province)
Scenic drive through the Kubor Range to Kundiawa, capital of Simbu Province. Visit the striking Mount Wilhelm area on approach.
Day 6: Simbu Villages & Skeleton Dancers
Trek to remote Simbu villages. Experience the haunting Skeleton Dance ritual where performers’ bodies are painted to appear as walking skeletons — an unforgettable spectacle.
Day 7: Mount Wilhelm Base Camp
Drive to Keglsugl at the base of Mount Wilhelm (4,509m), PNG’s highest peak. Guided nature walk searching for the magnificent Raggiana bird of paradise.
Day 8: Enga Province – Wabag
Drive to Wabag, capital of Enga Province, known for its distinctive culture. Visit the Enga Cultural Centre and see the unique “tee” ceremonial exchange.
Day 9: Enga Salt Ponds & Village Trek
Trek to traditional salt-making ponds used by the Enga people for centuries. Village homestay experience — learn to cook in a mumu earth oven.
Day 10: Return to Mount Hagen
Drive back through spectacular mountain scenery. Farewell dinner with traditional string band music.
Day 11: Departure
Fly to Port Moresby. International departure.
Included
- 10 nights (hotels + lodges + village homestay)
- Domestic flights
- All village visits and cultural performances
- Skeleton Dance ceremony
- Bird of paradise guided walk
- Most meals including mumu feast
- 4WD vehicle and driver throughout
- Tribal liaison officer and guide
