Papua New Guinea & Bougainville IV
Aug 13th, 2025 – Aug 20th, 2025
8 days · 7 nights
Wander Expeditions
5+ years group traveling
Mt. Hagen Festival & Bougainville
Explore Papua New Guinea and Bougainville, potentially to become the 198th country, with the best Wander Fam! Papua is a land of immense cultural diversity, with over 1,000 ethnic groups and 1,000 languages. We’ll venture deep into the highlands to attend the most fascinating cultural show in the world, where dozens of tribes gather to dance and showcase their unique skills. For the first time, we will also visit the most remote island in the archipelago:the autonomous island of Bougainville. This is a photogenic and adventurous journey into the tropical jungles of Oceania, where you’ll experience firsthand one of the most misunderstood countries in the world. And as always, you'll share this incredible adventure with the best group of people. Spots are very limited, so don’t think twice—apply now!Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Port Moresby
- Welcome to majestic Papua! Take this day to arrive in Port Moresby and rest. We will have a welcome dinner before taking an early morning flight the next day to Mt. Hagen.
- Overnight Port Moresby.
Day 2: Mt. Hagen
- To make the most of our time, our expedition starts early in the morning from Port Moresby Airport with a flight to Mt. Hagen. We’ll have a whole day to explore villages around Mt Hagen, known for its rich artistic tradition.
- Overnight in Mt Hagen.
Day 3: Mt. Hagen Festival
- Today, 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 4: Mt. Hagen
- 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 take a flight back to Port Moresby.
- Overnight in Port Moresby.
Day 5: Fly to Bougainville Island - Buka
- We will take an early flight to Bougainville Island. After our arrival, we will drive along the highway, stopping for photo opportunities and lunch and we will arrive to Arawa
- Overnight on Bougainville Island.
Day 6: Bougainville Island - Arawa
- Today, we will explore Bougainville Island, a destination with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Bougainville is an autonomous region with a strong sense of cultural identity. You’ll have opportunities to learn about the island’s history, culture, and how its people have maintained their traditions in harmony with nature. Whether it’s visiting local markets, trekking through verdant scenery, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings, this day promises to be both enriching and memorable.
- Overnight on Bougainville Island.
Day 7: Fly Back to Port Moresby
- In the early morning, we will travel to Buka, passing through some of the island’s most scenic spots along the way. After enjoying these final glimpses of Bougainville’s beauty, we’ll take a flight back to Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby. Upon arrival, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the journey.
- Overnight Port Moresby
Day 8: Fly Out
- The final day of our expedition. Feel free to take your flight home at any time today.
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