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Eastern Highlands Province, located in the heart of Papua New Guinea, is renowned for its lush landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich history. Home to the provincial capital, Goroka, the region boasts a mix of traditional villages, coffee plantations, and scenic highlands, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Goroka’s attractive, well-organised town is the provincial capital of the Eastern Highlands. It comes alive in September each year to host upwards of 40,000 painted warriors celebrating Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day. Anytime of year is a pleasure to visit. Discover the excellent displays of artefacts, pottery, weapons, war memorabilia and a collection of first contact photos from 1939 at the JK McCarthy Museum.
The Eastern Highlands Province is home to some of Papua New Guinea’s most vibrant and iconic cultural events. The best known is the Goroka Show, an annual highlight held each September around Independence Day. This world-famous festival brings together over 100 tribes from across Papua New Guinea, each showcasing their unique heritage through traditional music, dramatic dances, and elaborate costumes adorned with feathers, shells, and face paint.
The Goroka Show is a truly unforgettable spectacle, offering travellers the rare opportunity to witness sing-sing performances, hear ancient stories, and see cultural practices passed down for generations. It’s also an important celebration of unity and pride for the people of the highlands.
Beyond the Goroka Show, the region hosts other cultural gatherings and local festivals throughout the year, where visitors can experience traditional highland hospitality, sample local foods, and watch demonstrations of weavin
Domestic flights arrive from Port Moresby directly into the Goroka airport in the centre of town. Third level airlines provide connections to Goroka from various other centres. Goroka is connected to Lae and Mt Hagen by the Okuk (Highlands) Highway.
There’s a range of places to stay in Goroka and across the Eastern Highlands to suit different travel styles and budgets. The Bird of Paradise Hotel offers full-service accommodation in the centre of town, while smaller guesthouses and eco-lodges provide more local and immersive experiences. Many accommodations can also help arrange village visits, transport, and guided tours.
The dry season from June to September is considered the best time to visit the Eastern Highlands. The weather is cooler and more stable, ideal for outdoor exploration, trekking, and cultural events like the Goroka Show, which takes place in September. Travellers during this period will enjoy clear views of the highlands and easier access to rural areas.
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