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The Eastern Highlands Province sits in the heart of Papua New Guinea’s mountainous interior. With its cooler climate, lush valleys, and mist-covered peaks, it offers a refreshing contrast to the tropical lowlands and coastlines.
At the centre of it all is Goroka, the provincial capital. Known for its thriving coffee industry, vibrant cultural traditions, and friendly locals, Goroka is both a gateway and a destination in its own right. The region is famous for its traditional villages, colourful festivals, and scenic drives along winding highland roads.
Travellers to the Eastern Highlands can expect a warm welcome, cool mornings, and rich cultural encounters that reflect the Highlands’ strong sense of identity and community.
Eastern Highlands Province spans approximately 11,200 square kilometres and is home to more than 580,000 residents. It sits in PNG’s Highlands region and includes districts such as Goroka, Kainantu, Henganofi, Lufa, Okapa, and Obura-Wonenara.
This inland province is defined by fertile valleys, steep mountains, waterfalls, and cool misty air. Its volcanic soil supports large-scale coffee farming, while its forested slopes and river systems create ideal conditions for eco-tourism and trekking.
The cooler highland climate, averaging 15°C to 25°C year-round, makes Eastern Highlands a comfortable destination for travel. The crisp mornings, lush green scenery, and scenic drives between mountain villages give the region a calm, refreshing feel.
Goroka is the capital of Eastern Highlands Province, known for its thriving coffee industry, vibrant cultural traditions, and cool mountain air. Located at around 1,600 metres above sea level, it offers a temperate climate and scenic views of the surrounding valleys.
The region is home to some of Papua New Guinea’s best Arabica coffee. Travellers can visit plantations to see how coffee is grown, processed, and brewed by local growers. Culture is equally rich, Goroka is the birthplace of the famous Asaro Mudmen, and nearby villages still perform traditional mud mask dances.
Top attractions include:
Tip: Join a local tour to explore Goroka’s coffee farms or spend a day learning traditional crafts and stories from nearby villages.
The Eastern Highlands offers travellers a mix of nature, culture, and craft. From highland treks to village workshops, there’s something for every interest.
The Eastern Highlands Province is best known for the Goroka Show, a major cultural event held every September. It brings together dozens of tribal groups who showcase traditional dress (bilas), sing-sing performances, and highland rituals.
Beyond Goroka, smaller districts host local cultural days and community festivals, offering visitors intimate glimpses into village life. Music, storytelling, and ceremonial displays play a central role in preserving and passing down traditions.
The Eastern Highlands is home to cool-climate montane forests, native orchids, and rare birds like birds-of-paradise and bowerbirds. Trekkers may spot tree kangaroos or hear the calls of elusive highland species.
Visitors can explore eco-trails around Mount Michael or take short treks to waterfalls and forest lookouts near villages like Lufa and Okapa. These landscapes support growing eco-tourism, with opportunities for birdwatching, guided nature walks, and cultural stays.
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.
Our recommendations:
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.
Start planning your visit to the Eastern Highlands Province, home to vibrant culture, dramatic landscapes, and some of Papua New Guinea’s most welcoming communities. From Goroka’s famous coffee and cultural festivals to off-the-beaten-path hikes and heritage experiences, there’s something for every traveller.
Use our site to discover Things to Do, connect with tour operators, and book accommodation in advance. Whether you’re trekking to Mount Michael, exploring village life, or attending the Goroka Show, the Eastern Highlands is a destination you won’t forget. Need more info? Get in touch with our friendly team via phone, contact form or email.
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