Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 different languages and cultures, each with their own unique customs, traditions, and ways of life. Here are 10 of the most famous and colorful tribes to visit in Papua New Guinea:
Huli Wigmen: Known for their elaborate wigs made from their own hair, the Huli Wigmen are located in the Southern Highlands Province.
Asaro Mudmen: This tribe is famous for their ghost-like masks made from mud, which they wear during ceremonies and dances. They are located in the Eastern Highlands Province.
Chimbu (Simbu) tribes: The Chimbu tribes are known for their vibrant traditional costumes and energetic singsings (traditional dances and songs). They are located in the Chimbu Province.
Sepik River tribes: The Sepik River is home to several tribes known for their intricate wood carvings, body art, and initiation ceremonies. The tribes include the Abelam, Sawos, and Iatmul.
Tolai: The Tolai people live in the East New Britain Province and are known for their unique headdresses and colorful dances.
Enga: The Enga people are located in the Enga Province and are known for their striking face paint and elaborate costumes, which they wear during their annual cultural festival.
Manus: The Manus Province is home to the Manus people, who are known for their impressive canoes and intricate shell jewelry.
Baining: The Baining people live on the eastern coast of New Britain and are known for their fire dance, which is performed during special occasions.
Melpa: The Melpa people live in the Western Highlands Province and are known for their colorful singsings, which feature bright feathers and intricate body paint.
Wamena: The Wamena tribe is located in the Baliem Valley of the Papua Province and is known for their unique costumes and the annual Baliem Valley Cultural Festival.
It’s worth noting that many of these tribes have different sub-groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions, so there is much to explore and discover in Papua New Guinea.