Being a traveler is not just about flying to different countries, finding famous tourist spots, and taking pictures by the bay. It’s also about appreciating nature while immersing yourself in the rich culture of the locals of a particular place. With that goal in mind, Papua New Guinea undoubtedly became one of the top favorites of wanderers. PNG is not only known for its beautiful sceneries, pristine waters, numerous diving spots, challenging mountains, refreshing falls, and vast rainforest. It is also recognized for the one-of-a-kind cultural encounters it offers to its guests. Here’s a rundown of must-try culture experience activities in Papua New Guinea:
1. Meet the Tribes: Coastal Village Walk
There are only a few roads suitable for cars in Papua New Guinea. You’ll roam around the country mostly by flying, boating and walking with a professional guide. Since the country is home to 750 tribes, you’ll get to meet friendly locals along the way who are hospitable and approachable enough to let you experience village cultures, traditions, and their lifestyles. With a guide, you can also meet the village headmen, visit local skull caves, learn Pijin language, and check in to eco-lodges.

2. Witness a Unique Way of Cooking: Mumu Traditional Stone Cooking Demonstration
Locals give a warm welcome to every guest that sets foot on their village. As a symbol of friendship and hospitability, they prepare a sumptuous meal for the wanderers to enjoy. Mumu is a traditional dish from Papua New Guinea. Unlike dishes which are usually cooked in a stove, it is prepared in a pit filled with hot stones. The pit is also lined with banana leaves and filled with layers of ingredients such as leafy greens, root vegetables, meat, fruit, sweet potatoes, yams, bananas, and taros. These are mixed with large volumes of coconut milk for additional flavor. The leaves are then wrapped tightly for faster cooking.
3. Join the Fun: Singsing Festival
Being part of the Singsing Festival could be one of the best highlights of your PNG culture experience. This is an occasion where different tribes get to celebrate with each other and exhibit their talent in singing and dancing. Here, you’ll get to see locals adorned with colorful body paint, show-stopping wigs, Massive feather headdresses, grass skirts, and traditional weapons. As a guest, they will keep you entertained with their art. They are also open to teaching guests the processes of traditional cooking, basket weaving, and face painting.


4. Get Quick Culture Lessons: Visit the Port Moresby Nature Park
If you’ve opted for a brief stay in Papua New Guinea and don’t have the time to interact with locals firsthand, you can still learn more about their rich culture by simply visiting the Port Moresby Nature Park. Adventures around PNG usually include stopovers to Port Moresby between trips from the coast to the highlands. Here, you’ll learn a lot about the heritage of PNG, see cultural elements (such as yam house, war boates, and carved totem poles), and take pictures of the diverse flora and fauna. It also has a shop where you can find get remembrance to take home.

Upon looking for a travel deal, don’t forget to ask your providers to include these activities for you to get an ultimate PNG culture experience. Happy traveling!







