Expedition

Papua New Guinea – LAE

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Papua New Guinea – LAE

Papua is a land of immense cultural diversity, with over 1000 ethnic groups and 1000 languages. We’ll explore deep in the highlands to attend the most fascinating Cultural Show in the World, where dozens of tribes gather to dance and showcase their skills. We’ll meet and have a chance to experience how the famous Asaro Mudmen live and for first time in our itinerary we will visit Lae and Rabaul. This is a photogenic and adventurous journey to the tropical jungles of Oceania where you will experience first hand one of the most misunderstood countries in the World. And always, with the best group of people to share it with. Our spots are very limited so don’t think twice and apply now!

itinerary

Day 1: Mt. Hagen Festival

  • Welcome to majestic Papua! To make the most of our time, our expedition starts early in the morning from Port Moresby Airport with a flight to Mt. Hagen. Upon arrival, we will make our way to the Mt. Hagen showgrounds. Tribes from all over the Western Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea and neighboring tribes from the Jiwaka Province will congregate to display their unique ‘sing sings’ (cultural dances), offering an unforgettable introduction to the region’s vibrant traditions.
  • Overnight in Mt. Hagen.

Day 2: Mt. Hagen – Goroka

  • Today, we continue indulging ourselves in the Mount Hagen Cultural Show, a world-famous event and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The different tribal groups will showcase breathtaking performances in massive, colorful decorations within the arena. In the afternoon, we will begin our scenic journey to Goroka, immersing ourselves in the beautiful landscapes of the highlands along the way.
  • Overnight in Goroka.

Day 3: Asaro Village

  • After breakfast, we will visit the Asaro Village to witness the Moko Moko tribal dances of victory. These spectacular performances showcase the Mudmen, who historically performed these dances after their victories in tribal fights. After this cultural experience, we will head toward Lae, taking in the lush scenery of the Central Highlands as we travel.
  • Overnight in Lae

Day 4: Lae

  • Today begins with a scenic ride to the coastal town of Lae. Known as an important port city of Papua New Guinea, Lae has significant historical relevance due to the World War II battles fought here between Australian and Japanese forces. We will visit the World War II cemetery to pay respects to those who served and see the shipwreck of the Myoko Maru as well as the Japanese War Memorial.
  • Overnight in Lae.

Day 5: Lae – Rabaul

  • In the morning, we will embark on a flight to Rabaul, a town rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, Rabaul offers a fascinating mix of cultural and geological exploration. In the afternoon, we will begin exploring the town, learning about its history and its role as a key site during World War II. The town’s location near active volcanoes makes it an unforgettable destination.
  • Overnight in Rabaul.

Day 6: Rabaul

  • Today is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Rabaul. We’ll take in the breathtaking views of the Simpson Harbor and the active volcano Tavurvur, a stark reminder of the power of nature. There will also be opportunities to engage with the local communities, learning about their traditions and how they live in harmony with the region’s unique environment.
  • Overnight in Rabaul.

Day 7: Fly Back to Port Moresby

  • Today, we fly back to Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby. Upon landing, the expedition comes to an end. From here, we will catch our outbound flights.
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Included

Domestic Flights

Three domestic flights to Mount Hagen, to Rabaul and back to Port Moresby.

Hotels

Shared rooms in 3-4star lodges in Mt Hagen Local Homestays with the tribes in Goroka.

Transportation

Private vehicle and driver.

VIP Tickets to Mt Hagen Cultural Show

VIP tickets for this one in a lifetime show.

Meals

Breakfast and meals in homestays in Goroka (where it's hard to find restaurants or other food options).

Entrance Fees

All activities, dances and festivities mentioned in the itinerary.

Contribution to local communities

We make sure our visit directly impact and contribute to the economy of the tribes and local communities we meet.
August 15th – 21st 2025

Our Selection Process takes only 10 minutes and it helps us create the best travel family!

FAQ

PNG has an evisa for most nationalities, which we can help you navigate. We can also offer support if your passport doesn’t allow evisa.
Wander Expedition doesn’t book flights for you and is ultimately not responsible for your flight connection, but we can offer guidance and support when you research the best options for you. You will be flying to and from Port Moresby. Flights from Manila or Singapore are only 400 euros return!
This is a fantastic opportunity for those of you that want to explore this secluded region with a great group and the best local crew.
This Expedition is for everyone looking to have a fun time, explore an off the beaten path destination, make new travel friends and memorable travel stories. Papua is the perfect unique off the grid adventure, offering great cultural depth, secluded tribes, and stunning outdoors. It will be filled with travel stories!
Wander Expeditions is not a traditional travel agency where the first to pay is the first to go. We take you to stunning destinations, but we know the people you share it with is even more important when you travel. That’s why we have a refined selection process where we filter and vet candidates to ensure that groups are fun, balanced, diverse and interesting! We make sure candidates are on the same page and share our values of being fun, flexible and fearless, so we can guarantee everyone will have an amazing experience. We create travel families, so #trusttheprocess. Halfway through our process, we share the price with all pre-selected applicants. It only takes 15 min to apply, so you literally have nothing to lose! What are you waiting for to join the Wander Fam?

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