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Whether you choose to brave a mighty river crossing, walk in lush mountainous landscapes or experience the finest of traditional Highlands cuisine, Jiwaka will leave you awe stricken and in a state of bliss.
Three large ethnic groups live in unison here atop one of the highest places in Papua New Guinea. The Jimi, a proud race of mountain folk that still live an almost Neolithic existence along the north-eastern region of the province will fascinate you with their modest existence and truly shake your ways of viewing the ever-changing world. The Waghi, thought of as the high-born folk of the land, live a more contemporary existence mostly due to their location along the main Highlands Highway. And of course the Kambia people, the smallest in number of the three, who after years of inter-clan merging, have some who can speak as many as five different languages from nearby areas.
If it’s a rugged adventure atop cliff faces that you seek, or maybe a relaxing night or two in pristine forests, Jiwaka’s scenery and people will delight you.
Domestic flights arrive into neighbouring Mt Hagen airport from Port Moresby. From the airport, it’s a one-hour drive by car or 4WD to Banz, the provincial capital of Jiwaka province.
Hela province is one of Papua New Guinea’s newest provinces, formed from three Southern Highlands districts in 2012. From the capital of Tari you’ll be delighted by our unspoilt environment and vibrant Hela customs. Home to the iconic Huli Wigmen, this is the place to learn about our striking body decoration and hear the melodies of our flute-like panpipes and bamboo Jew’s-harps.
Domestic flights arrive directly into Tari from Port Moresby daily. The Highlands Highway connects Tari to Mt Hagen, Goroka and Lae.
The capital city, Mt Hagen, is a bustling commercial centre where wealth from coffee and tea plantations has brought rapid change to traditional lifestyle. If you want to visit the last frontier of Papua New Guinea this is it. Taste the sweetest strawberries at Rondon Ridge, attend one of the regular cultural festivals held throughout the province and don’t miss the kaleidoscope of colours on view at the Saturday markets.
Domestic flights arrive directly into the Mt Hagen Airport from Port Moresby. From the airport it’s a 30-minute stretch by taxi ride to the city centre. Your hotel will provide airport transfers for your convenience. The Okuk (Highlands) Highway connects Mt Hagen to Goroka and other Highlands centres.
In Mendi and Ialibu you’ll get a strong feeling for the intricate social systems that define the Southern Highlands. This is one of the few remaining places where the traditional way of life can be seen in everyday living, making it an adventure seeker’s dream. Summit the country’s second-highest mountain, Mount Giluwe (4,368m), explore the tracks around Mount Ialibu (3,465m), or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery at Lake Kutubu.
Domestic flights arrive directly into the Mendi or Moro airports from Port Moresby. Your accommodation will provide airport transfers for your convenience. The Highlands Highway connects Mendi to Mt Hagen.
Bordered by Madang to the north and the Gulf to the south, Simbu’s provincial capital, Kundiawa, sits beside a spectacular airstrip, built on a sloping ridge beneath the towering mountains. Cold weather gear is recommended in these occasionally snowy mountaintops. The province is dotted with a number of hospitable guesthouses that will accommodate your every trekking and touring request.
Take a domestic flight from Port Moresby to Goroka then drive on the Highlands Highway through Daulo pass to Kundiawa.
Dominated by only one language, many people in Enga do not need to speak English or Tok Pisin, so use a guide to ensure a smooth trip. From the main town of Wabag, visit nearby high-altitude lakes, discover the Laiagam salt ponds, and tackle the short 15-minute hike to the thundering Yuo Falls.
Domestic flights arrive directly into the Wapenamanda Airport weekly from Port Moresby. Travel by private car, PMV bus or truck from Mt Hagen on the highlands Highway.
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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