Day 1: Arrive in Port Moresby → Days 2–3: Section hikes along the Kokoda Track → Day 4: Fly to Mount Hagen → Day 5: Highland tribes and festivals → Day 6: Fly to Wewak, transfer to the Sepik River → Day 7: Sepik River villages → Day 8: Return to Port Moresby for departure. The entire trip relies on domestic flights, and requires guides, permits, and logistics to be arranged through a licensed travel agency.
After arriving at Jacksons International Airport, check into your hotel, visit the National Museum and Parliament House to learn about Papua New Guinea’s history, linguistic diversity, and national symbols. Take an evening stroll near the harbor, then return to your hotel early. Port Moresby has higher safety risks, so independent outings are not recommended on the first day.
Join a guided trek along the Kokoda Track, starting from the Owers’ Corner area. Hike through rainforest trails while learning about the 1942 battles where Australian troops fought Japanese forces, passing landmarks like the Isurava Memorial. The trail is hot, humid, and steep—good physical fitness and waterproof gear are essential. You can choose to hike a single section and turn back.
Travel by road or short flight to the highland city of Mount Hagen, with scenic views of the plateau ridges along the way. Upon arrival, visit the cultural center and local markets to experience the cooler highland climate and different produce from the coastal areas.
If visiting during a cultural festival like the Mount Hagen Show, enjoy concentrated performances of tribal dances, feathered headdresses, and body paint. On non-festival days, head to the Tari Valley to visit the Huli tribe, known for their “mudmen” appearance—yellow clay body paint and elaborate headdresses—as well as the tribal traditions behind shell and feather adornments.
Take a domestic flight to Wewak in East Sepik Province, then transfer by road and boat to the Sepik River region. Stay in a riverside lodge. The Sepik is one of Papua New Guinea’s longest rivers, with riverside villages renowned for wood carving and ceremonial art.
Travel by boat to visit riverside villages, observe wood carving, totem poles, and canoe-making craftsmanship, and learn about local rituals and initiation ceremonies. Be mindful of crocodile-inhabited waters and follow your guide’s instructions at all times. Return to the lodge in the evening.
Fly back to Port Moresby for your connecting flight home. Domestic flights are weather-dependent, so allow ample time for connections. It’s advisable to book an extra night in Port Moresby as a buffer.