Goroka Show: The Goroka Show stands as one of the town’s most dazzling highlights. Held annually in September, this vibrant festival brings together tribes from across the highlands to showcase their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, music, and elaborate costumes. It’s a kaleidoscope of color and rhythm that offers a profound insight into Papua New Guinea’s diverse tribal cultures.
Coffee Plantation Tours: Goroka’s fertile highlands are renowned for producing some of the world’s finest coffee beans. Visitors can embark on guided tours of these lush plantations, where they’ll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup, sample freshly brewed coffee, and soak in the stunning scenery of rolling hills and verdant valleys.
J.K. McCarthy Museum: For a deeper understanding of Goroka’s history and culture, a visit to the J.K. McCarthy Museum is essential. Named after the Australian colonial administrator who played a pivotal role in the region’s development, the museum houses a captivating collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle the town’s past and its cultural evolution.
Goroka Markets: The town’s bustling markets are a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and smells. Here, locals gather to sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional artifacts, creating a vibrant tapestry of everyday life. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Goroka’s bustling atmosphere and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir to take home.
Highland Scenery: Surrounding Goroka, the Eastern Highlands boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in Papua New Guinea. From mist-shrouded mountains and cascading waterfalls to fertile valleys and lush forests, the region offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure. Hiking, birdwatching, and photography are just a few of the activities that await those eager to explore Goroka’s stunning natural landscapes.
Whether experiencing the vibrant energy of the Goroka Show, savoring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee on a plantation tour, or immersing yourself in the town’s bustling markets, Goroka’s highlights promise an unforgettable journey of discovery and cultural immersion in the heart of the Eastern Highlands.