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Incredible, Inspiring, Intriguing, Astounding and Exciting in Equal Measure
Flight - 1 night
Singapore - 1 night
Flight – 1 night
Mount Hagen - 1 night
Lake Murray - 3 nights
Karawari - 2 nights
Mount Hagen - 3 nights
East New Britain - 4 nights
Flight - 1 night
An incredible 18-day journey to wild, raw and captivating Papua New Guinea a land lost in time, with ample to discover
A journey to Papua New Guinea, the world’s second largest island and third largest rainforest, is a journey of discovery and an assault on the senses. One of the last frontiers, providing an unparalleled array of natural beauty, exotic wildlife and cultural tradition. In this remote and distant land intrepid travellers can immerse themselves in a vibrant collection of cultures, in a land of geological contrasts; mountain ranges, expansive rainforest, vast river delta systems and pristine coral atolls, offering the potential for 'A Million Journeys'. This incredible range of habitats nurtures a diverse range of wildlife and a spectacular variety of birdlife, including 38 species of birds of paradise. Such diversity is only rivalled by the people themselves whose traditions remain an active part of everyday life and who share their customs and heritage with a genuine openness and hospitality. Explore remote Lake Murray, reputed to be one of the best bird watching areas, discover life on the river in the lowland Sepik Region, as well as spectacular primitive art and an incredible variety of parrots and orchids. Travel to the highlands and discover the world of the Melpa and Jiwaka people, meet the Huli Wigmen, the Asaro Mudmen and Baining Fire Dancers. Explore East New Britain with its evergreen rainforest, rugged mountain ranges, imposing volcanoes and fascinating WWII history.
Culture, Natural Wonders & Birdlife
Private Charter Flights
Chauffeur Driven Transfers*
Best Available
Accommodation
Expert Local Guides
Small Group Size: 4 – 15
Day 1 Fly from London Heathrow to Singapore.
Day 2 Arrive Singapore, transfer to the Park Regis hotel, time at leisure to explore the sights of Singapore.
Day 3 Full day at leisure before the evening flight to Port Morseby. Papua New Guinea, the last great unexplored land mass remains a place of great wonder and mystery. Exotic animals, extraordinary art and flamboyant warriors await the curious traveller. (B)
Day 4 Arrive in Port Moresby and transfer for your flight to Mount Hagen, capital of the Western Province in the upper Wahgi Valley. First contact was only made with the Melpa people of the Wahgi Valley in 1933, they were amongst the world’s first horticulturists and in many ways their lifestyle remains unchanged. Transfer for an overnight at Rondon Ridge, perched high on Mount Kuta, with incredible views over the valley. Guided nature walk followed by a filmshow, cocktail and welcome dinner. (L, D)
Day 5 Fly by private charter to Lake Murray. Transfer along the shimmering silvery expanse edged by jungle and spy the faint outline of palm-thatch villages where you will see fishermen in their dugout canoes. Stay three nights at Lake Murray Lodge, nestled among trees on an island spit on the largest lake in Papua New Guinea. The region has a rich population of birds, and is home to indigenous tribes who live in stilted houses around the water’s edge and on tiny islands. Lunch at the lodge followed by an afternoon’s exploration in river boats. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Explore the waterways of Lake Murray, this beautiful and tranquil setting provides an ideal base for both birders and nature lovers. Discover the island communities that dot the waterscape in this, one of the most remote parts of Papua New Guinea, where dugout canoes are the primary mode of transportation. In the island communities there is the opportunity to witness and interact in a number of traditional activities; weaving, face and body painting, tribal warrior demonstrations and traditional sing-sing (a celebratory display of dress, song and dance). (B, L, D)
Day 7 Spend the day exploring Lake Murray, with over 154 species, the high diversity of birdlife is at its richest in the lake’s tributaries where you may spot eclectic parrots, palm cockatoos, pacific black ducks, green pygmy geese, white-breasted sea eagles as well as Papua New Guinea’s fabled bird of paradise. (B, L, D)
Day 8 Fly by private charter to Karawari, deep in Arambak country and home of the Kamangabbi spirit legend. Transfer to Karawari Lodge by boat. In this remote and unspoiled region, the tropical lowland rainforest is a complex habitat housing a tremendous variety of flora, fauna and a unique culture. After lunch visit a riverbank village, the real fascination here is the people, how they live and how the land and river shapes their lives, maintaining traditions as they have for generations. (B, L, D)
Day 9 Excursions are undertaken in small custom designed river boats, allowing access to shallow and small tributaries of the river. Venture back in time to a hunter-gatherers society on an excursion along the jungle-fringed waterways, where crocodiles bask on the banks and boatmen standing upright, paddle their slender canoes, adorned with sculpted crocodile masks. Experience the traditional village life of the Sepik region, discover carved totems, drums, woodcarvings and different expressions of art. See bountiful birdlife along the rivers and explore the trails of the lodge for the blue orchid. (B, L, D)
Day 10 Fly by private charter to Mount Hagen. This spectacular flight crosses vast tracts of highlands and mountains rise to startling heights from the flat lands of the Sepik Basin. Located at an elevation of 2,150 mt. Home to the Melpa and Jiwaka People, the pristine highland rainforest hosts a diverse range of orchids and birdlife. Return to Rondon Ridge, high above the valley, where we will stay for the next three nights. After lunch enjoy a guided nature walk on local trails. (B, L, D)
Day 11 An early start to explore the wildlife of the high altitude forests behind Rondon Ridge. With over 180 species of bird, including ten different birds of paradise in the area we are hopeful of sightings. The species most likely to be seen are blue, superb and King of Saxony birds of paradise, Stephanie’s astraphia and brown sicklebill. The forests are also rich in orchid diversity. (B, L, D)
Day 12 Enjoy a full day tour exploring the unique culture and tradition of the Valley. Discover the traditions and customs of the Melpa People. An intriguing and resourceful community with strong traditions and beliefs who still preserve their culture and live largely subsistence lifestyles. (B, L, D)
Day 13 Fly to Rabaul via Port Moresby. On the island of East New Britain, Rabaul has a colourful and explosive past. It was a base for Japanese operations in the South Pacific during WWII and was largely destroyed in 1994 by Mount Tavurvur, when Kokopo became the new capital. Take the short drive to Kokopo Beach Bungalows for a four night stay. Enjoy the tropical setting, the location is picture perfect, overlooking turquoise blue waters, reefs and framed by six volcanoes. (B, L, D)
Day 14 Explore the Gazelle Peninsula, start with an early trek to the rim of Mount Tavuvrvur, (approx. 1 hr), enjoy the views before heading down to the hot springs, where locals demonstrate their intensity by boiling eggs of the Megapode bird. Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery (Bita Paka), Kokopo War Museum, the site of a crashed WWII Japanese Betty Bomber, General Yamamoto’s Bunker and Japanese barge tunnels. Continue to the Volcano Observatory for a panoramic view of Rabaul, Simpson Harborand and of course, the volcanoes themselves. Return to your hotel mid-afternoon with time to relax. (B, L, D)
Day 15 Enjoy a full day boat tour to the Duke of York Islands. Explore the stunning bay and small craft market, admire white sandy beaches in a picturesque tropical setting, stop on a quiet, private beach for lunch under the trees and a chance to go swimming in the warm waters of the Bismarck. On the return look out for turtles and dolphins which are a common sight. Enjoy the cruise along the coastline of Kokopo arriving late afternoon at the hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 16 Enjoy a day of leisure. Relax by the pool, stroll along the beach or visit the Kokopo markets. You may choose to head out to swim with the dolphins or join a dive boat for scuba diving or snorkelling. (B, L, D)
Day 17 Fly to Port Moresby, lunch at the Airways Hotel, time permitting, enjoy a short exploration of the capital before the flight to London via Singapore. Alternatively you may choose a different way home with a visit to Kavieng, capital of New Ireland and the ‘Robinson Crusoesque’ Lissenung Island Resort, a perfect setting to relax and unwind. (B, L)
Day 18 Arrive London Heathrow.
Close to the entertainment hub of Clarke Quay and a short walk from the culturally-rich district of Chinatown, close to Raffles and Marina Bay. The hotel has an outdoor pool and fitness centre. Bicycle or e-scooter rentals are available. WiFi throughout. Its 202 elegant, modern rooms are air-conditioned, fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows and equipped with safe, mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities and TV.
At over 2,100m on the slopes of Mount Hagen is an oasis of comfort and luxury with spectacular views of the Wahgi Valley, Mount Giluwe and the Western Highlands. The main building has a large veranda, dining room, bar and exhibition room. Using only clean, natural energy produced from a mini-hydroelectric power plant and solar collectors. WiFi limited/chargeable. The 24 rooms have mini-bar, tea/coffee making facilities and private patio.
In keeping with its eco-friendly philosophy, the entire lodge operation is powered with the latest technology in solar power which provides 24-hour electricity. The buildings have made use of local sago woven matting and timber providing a natural setting to fit with the location. The main lodge building, with a wraparound veranda, houses a dining room, lounge and bar. This veranda will be the place to enjoy exceptional sunsets over the water. No WiFi. Guests are accommodated in 12 individual cabins, raised on stilts, overlooking Lake Murray, with ceiling fan and veranda.
Accessible only by river, this stunning rustic style lodge is perched on a ridge above the Karawari River with spectacular views of dense tropical jungle. Built to fit into its environment, following indigenous design principles, the only substantial concessions are modern en suite bathrooms, electricity and hot and cold water. The main lodge is built in the style of a traditional “haus tambaran” or spirit house, featuring carved furniture, beautiful artefacts and a veranda with magnificent views overlooking the enormous Sepik basin. No WiFi. The 10 cottages have ceiling fans and mosquito nets.
Nestled along the coastline of Blanche Bay, the hotel boasts sweeping views of New Ireland, the unspoiled Duke of York Islands and the mighty volcanoes surrounding Rabaul town. Once you are captured by the spirit of this island paradise you will not want to leave. WiFi (limited). All 39 bungalows are modern, air-conditioned, spacious, quiet and have their own private balcony to enjoy the breathtaking views.
New Ireland Province, Kavieng Extension
Located at the northern tip of New Ireland, Kavieng is often described as a typical “Somerset Maugham South Sea island port”. So a loose translation of which would be friendly, laid-back and quiet. New Ireland’s never-ending beaches, smattering of islands and uncrowded reefs and waves make it a dream destination for pure escapism. Fly from Rabaul and stay on Lissenung, a small private island, just 20 minutes from the town of Kavieng. The eco-resort is the only structure on the island, containing just 7 rooms, this is the perfect place to escape to for that well-earned break. Includes: Four nights’ accommodation, a full day village and island tour and the Bulominski Highway tour. (B, L, D)
Day 1 Morning at leisure until we transfer to the airport for the short flight to Kaveing. Transfer to Lissenung Island for a four night stay. Enjoy a few days of relaxing on the beach, swimming and snorkelling on the fringing reefs of the islands, visit the mainland of New Ireland, meet the locals from nearby islands and immerse yourself into the peace and quiet that is New Ireland. (B, D)
Day 2 Enjoy a full day village and island tour with a BBQ lunch. Lissenung Island is just one of many islands in New Ireland Province and many of the neighbouring islands are inhabited. Join us on a visit to those island villages and experience the simple life without running water, electricity, TV and Internet. You will be accompanied by one of our local guides, who will open the door to their homes to you and let you experience their life for a short while. You will find out why the islanders have a separate Haus Kuk (kitchen), how copra is made, you may even get to watch the weavers make floor mats or bline, which we use for the walls in all our bungalows. Visit Enuk Island (a donation has been made to Enuk Island community and elementary schools for peach person participating in the trip.), then onto Ral for a chance to snorkel around its stunning reef and enjoy a BBQ lunch, there is also a chance for reef fishing. (B, L, D)
Day 3 We head to Kavieng by boat, where we change mode of transport and take a mini-van for a ride down the Boluminsky Highway. The drive takes us along some stunning coastal scenery, New Ireland is famous for its birdlife and visitors come from around the world to enjoy the excellent birding. Our first stop is at Poliamba Oil Palm Plantation, where we will have a quick look at the plantation. After a small snack, we will be on our way to Cathy’s Eelfarm at Laraibina Village. It’s not actually a farm in the true sense, but just Cathy’s house right next to a freshwater stream that connects with the ocean and where freshwater eels hang out until they give birth. These animals can grow up to 1.20 metre in length and are silky smooth. Time permitting we may visit Fissoa Village for a quick and very refreshing swim and lunch, before slowly making our way back to Kavieng and Lissenung Island. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Full day to sit back and relax and enjoy the pure escapism the island offers. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Early morning start for flight to Port Moresby, via Rabaul. Connect with onward flight to Singapore, lunch will be provided at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby. Depart for London Via Singapore. (B, L)
Day 6 Arrive London.
The resort is built in traditional style to blend in with its surroundings. The dining room is communally configured, with meals served together, relax after dinner in the casual lounge. Bungalows have large verandas with comfortable chairs to relax. The walls are made from woven bamboo, one side of the roof is thatched (Sago Palm leaves), the other has corrugated iron to collect the rainwater which provides the property’s water supply. Although the shower water is not heated, the warm environment (28°C/83F) usually ensures a pleasant water temperature. The 7 bungalows are fitted with a mosquito net over the bed, a ceiling fan, a desk and wardrobe, the windows don’t have glass, but are fitted with a flyscreens. There are no technological annoyances such as TV or internet to disturb the quiet.
2021
Sundays
per person in a twin room
Singapore Airlines from London Heathrow
September 19 | £10295 |
Sundays
per person in a twin room
Singapore Airlines from London Heathrow
A Jules Verne Limited Edition
Supplements per person
Single Supplement
Single supplement £1400
Flight Options
Premium Economy (London - Singapore) from £2035
Business Class (London - Port Moresby) from £5495
Extension Options
Extension - New Ireland Province
Lissenung Island Resort
4 nights £1195
Single supplement £270
Price Includes
Air travel and taxes, VIP return transfers*, free stop-over in Singapore, private charter flights between Mount Hagen, Lake Murray and Karawari, 14 nights’ accommodation, meals as indicated, expert local guides and naturalists. If our specially negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of booking, a supplement may apply.
Not Included
Travel insurance, optional excursions, tipping, any government taxes or compulsory charges introduced after publication.
Notes
*On all of our Great Journeys, we provide a VIP chauffeur driven transfer for passengers living within a 70-mile radius of the point of departure. For those passengers that live outside of this 70-mile radius, we will provide the most competitive quotation for the additional mileage.
Please complete this form and a member of our sales department will contact you as soon as possible to confirm your booking and take payment. Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm