Journey to the Heart of the Kalam: A Cultural Adventure in Simbai

Simbai Sojourn: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Kalam People"

Discover the authentic traditions and vibrant culture of the Kalam tribe with our exclusive four-day, three-night expedition to Simbai, Papua New Guinea. Departing from Mount Hagen, this immersive journey offers a unique opportunity to engage with one of the country’s most isolated and traditional tribes. Experience the awe-inspiring Kalam festival, witness ancient rituals, and partake in a traditional “mumu” feast. Enjoy the hospitality of the local guesthouse and capture stunning photographs of the tribe’s intricate headdresses and vibrant ceremonies against breathtaking natural backdrops. This cultural adventure promises unforgettable memories and deep insights into the rich heritage of the Kalam people. Book your spot now for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Group Size

8 Guests – We will only have 8 guests on this trip due to the Charter fligh seating.

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Moderate schedule
  • Travel by charter plane from Mount Hagen
  • Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking and some hiking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

In Simbai, home of the Kalam tribe, July typically brings cool and mild weather. Nestled in the highlands of Madang, the area experiences temperatures that range from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 13°C to 24°C). Mornings and evenings can be brisk, with a light chill in the air, especially in the higher altitudes.

The days are generally comfortable, with occasional cloud cover and gentle breezes. Although July falls within the drier season, there’s still a chance of light rain or mist, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. The surrounding jungles and mountain landscapes often remain lush and green, creating a vibrant backdrop for any visit. This weather is ideal for exploring the region, participating in cultural activities, and witnessing the traditional festivals of the Kalam people without the intense heat or heavy rains found in other parts of Papua New Guinea.

 
 

Includes:

Accommodation in twin/double rooms:
Meals included in the program (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Privatecharter flight from Mount Hagen
Engaging activities as mentioned in the program
Knowledgeable local guides
Experienced Tour Leader from Tribes of Papua New Guinea or local guides.

Not Included:

Airfare to Mount Hagen
Drinks like soft drinks and alcoholic drinks
Porters if needed
Insurance

Tribes you will see on this trip.

Kalam Tribe 

Simbai Sojourn: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Kalam People

ITINERARY

After an early breakfast, depart from Mount Hagen and head to the airport for a charter flight to Simbai. Travel by small aircrafts with a capacity of 8 passengers each, necessitating two separate flights. The total baggage allowance per person is 20 kg, including hand luggage. Store any excess baggage in Mount Hagen as the trip to Simbai will be for three nights only. The flight takes about 45 minutes, and soon you’ll find yourself in Simbai village, nestled in the mountainous ridges and surrounded by jungle, an area accessible only by air. Upon arrival, the local team will greet you and assist with the transfer to the village guest house. Accommodations are basic, featuring shared bathrooms and pit toilets, but the local team ensures hot water in buckets for morning and evening use. Spend the rest of the day settling in and exploring the village.

Immerse yourself in the daily life of the Kalam tribe. The Kalam are renowned for their intricate headdresses made from cuscus fur, feathers, and beetle heads. Learn about the preparation of these impressive headpieces and delve into the tribe’s ancient culture and rituals, which have been passed down through eight generations. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as village women prepare food for a “mumu” feast. Witness the skillful butchering of a pig, which is then cooked on hot stones in the ground. The opening of the mumu is celebrated with a traditional “singsing,” a lively event that can last long into the night.

Participate in the Kalam festival, which includes the boys’ initiation ceremony. The Kalam tribe, known for maintaining their traditional lifestyle due to their isolation, hosts this annual festival to celebrate their unique culture. Watch as boys undergo the rite of passage, marked by the piercing of their noses with septums. The festival activities include traditional dancing, earth oven cooking demonstrations, feasting, courtship ceremonies, gift exchanges between families, bride price payments, and the massive slaughtering of pigs. In the afternoon, select a scenic spot for a private photo session with the Kalam people, capturing the beauty of their traditional attire against natural backdrops like waterfalls, hills, and jungles. Enjoy meals at the guesthouse, which include a blend of local foods, tinned and packaged items from Mount Hagen, fresh local fruits, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Kalam land. The local team will assist with the transfer to the airstrip for the 45-minute charter flight back to Mount Hagen. Upon arrival, retrieve any stored luggage and enjoy lunch at a local hotel. Prepare for the onward journey, reflecting on the unique and enriching experiences of the past few days.

OPTIONS & BENEFITS

Price: 1590 USD per person in shared double room. (Minimum 7 people)

– All room nights in shared double room
– Transportation from Tari Airport to the Lodge and back
– Breakfast lunch and dinner (all meals)
– Performances for all cultural groups and tribes
– Guided walks to caves and mountains
– Taxes and fees
– Basic Laundry
– English speaking Tour Guide during your trip

– International and domestic flights to: Hagen Airport
– Insurance (recommended)
– Personal expenses (drinks and alcohol with your food, souvenirs, phone bill, etc.)

Accommodation is basic but clean, and at some places can be with shared toilet or showers. We stay with the tribes at local homestay guesthouses. Electricity is available during most of the whole trip, also you will have internet access. (For phone access you need to pay extra SIM card at Port Moresby airport)
Due to unforeseen events the organizers can change the program during the execution of the trip. We will do our best to follow the program and include all events mentioned. We make plans to cover most problems should they arise, which is very seldom, but the visitor must be aware of the small possibility of plans not working out as per schedule and accept this warning.

FOR BOOKING SEND AN EMAIL TO info@tribesofpapuanewguinea.com
We ask for a deposit of 50% to be paid. As soon as we have the deposit your booking reservation is confirmed. The deposit is non-refundable but valid for next year’s trip to join.
We ask for the final balance of payment 2 months before the expedition commences.
Cancellation within 3 weeks of the commencement of the expedition incurs a penalty of 100% of monies paid to date. Payments can be done by international bank transfers in EU, USA or Thailand (Asia).


– Please bring warm clothing for the evenings.
– There is no mosquito problem in the highlands
– Extra money can be changed at the airport upon arrival
– Sim card possible to buy at POM airport the company to choose is DIGICELL
– You need a passport valid for 6 months + VISA application and approved VISA
– https://ica.gov.pg/
– At the airports you need a printed version of all your vaccinations (this might change any time)