Day 1: Arrive in Port Moresby
After landing in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG), you can settle in at your hotel and rest from your travels. Use this day to get your bearings. Take a walk around the city’s waterfront and enjoy your first look at PNG’s unique landscapes. Don’t rush to fit too much in today; just relax and soak in your new surroundings.
Day 2: Explore Port Moresby
Start the day by visiting the Port Moresby Nature Park. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of PNG’s incredible wildlife, including tree kangaroos and cassowaries. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a rainforest.
In the afternoon, head to the National Museum and Art Gallery. This is a great place to learn about PNG’s culture and history. PNG is home to hundreds of different tribes, and this museum gives a good overview of the country’s rich diversity.
Wrap up your day with a visit to Ela Beach. It’s a relaxing spot to wind down after a day of sightseeing.
Day 3: Fly to Mount Hagen
Today, take a short flight to Mount Hagen. This is the heart of PNG’s Highlands region. The Highland area has a very different vibe from Port Moresby. The cool weather and green landscapes make it an ideal place for adventure.
In the evening, visit a local market to experience the local food and daily lifestyle. The market is lively and packed with colorful produce. Take the opportunity to chat with locals and learn more about their culture.
Day 4: Mount Hagen Markets and Villages
Start the day with more time at the local market. You’ll find amazing local fruits and handmade crafts. Pick up some souvenirs or snacks for your journey ahead.
Afterward, take a tour of a local village. The Highland tribes have maintained their traditional way of life. You’ll be greeted with traditional music and dance. There aren’t many places left in the world like this, and it’s a real treat to experience.
Day 5: Meet the Wigmen of Mount Hagen
One of the top experiences in Mount Hagen is meeting the Huli Wigmen, a tribe known for its intricate headdresses made from human hair. You’ll learn about their customs and rituals. If you’re lucky, you’ll see them perform a traditional sing-sing. These performances are rich in history and culture, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Day 6: Trekking in the Highlands
Time to get outdoors. Head out for a full day of trekking in the Highlands. The trails will take you through rugged mountains, beautiful valleys, and remote villages. It’s an opportunity to see PNG’s incredible Highlands up close.
After a day of activity, relax back at your accommodation. This is a slower-paced region, so embrace the calm and quiet.
Day 7: Fly to Goroka
Take a flight to Goroka, another key destination in PNG’s Highlands. Goroka is a lovely town known for its coffee production. Spend some time today unwinding or exploring the local area on your own. It’s a relaxing town, so feel free to go at your own pace.
Day 8: Coffee Plantations in Goroka
You can’t visit Goroka without touring a coffee plantation. PNG is known for producing high-quality organic coffee, and Goroka is one of the best places to explore this industry. You’ll see the entire process, from bean to cup. Treat yourself to some coffee tastings too.
In the afternoon, you could visit the JK McCarthy Museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture.
Day 9: Goroka Cultural Tour
Spend today on a deeper dive into Goroka’s cultural scene. Visit the local markets and interact with villagers. You’ll also get a chance to meet more local tribes and learn about their traditional art, rituals, and dances.
End the day by visiting the Raun Raun Theatre, where you can catch some amazing performances.
Day 10: Fly to Madang
Your journey continues with a flight to Madang, a coastal paradise. Madang is known for its coral reefs and beautiful lagoons, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind by the water.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a stroll along the marina and visit the local fish market. You can also get some fresh seafood for dinner.
Day 11: Relax by the Seaside in Madang
Today is all about relaxing. Spend your time enjoying Madang’s beaches or snorkeling in the clear waters. The reefs are full of life, and you’ll have the chance to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and possibly even dolphins.
If you prefer something more structured, you can head out on a boat tour around the small nearby islands. But take it easy today—it’s your time to recharge before the final leg of your trip.
Day 12: Visit Balek Wildlife Sanctuary
Ready for another adventure? Head to the Balek Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a tropical reserve with sulfur springs and snakes you can spot in the water. The sanctuary has some great walking trails, and the fresh air is a welcome change if you’ve been exploring cities and towns.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the Madang Museum, which highlights PNG’s history and culture through artifacts.
Day 13: Fly to Rabaul
Today you’ll fly to Rabaul, which is famous for its stunning scenery dominated by volcanoes. Volcanic eruptions have shaped the landscape, and as a result there are black sand beaches and dramatic landscapes everywhere you look.
Once you’ve settled in, you can take a short hike to an old WWII bunker to learn about the town’s history in the conflict. Rabaul was an important military base during the war, and remnants of that era are still visible today.
Day 14: Explore Rabaul’s Volcano and Goodbye PNG
On your last day, hike up to the top of Tavurvur Volcano. It’s an active volcano, and the views from the top are breathtaking. The hike isn’t too tough, but it does take about 2-3 hours. This is an iconic activity, and it’s a perfect way to end your trip with a final adventure.
In the afternoon, take time to relax by the beach before catching your flight back to Port Moresby in the evening.
Your two-week adventure in Papua New Guinea has come to an end. You’ve seen incredible culture, wildlife, history, and breathtaking landscapes. PNG is a special place, and it’s one of the most unique destinations in the world.
Leave a reply