Three mini festival trip: Asaro Tribal Gathering, Skeleton Tribe Festival and Waterfall Festival and Hidden Chimbu Tribes.

The Ultimate Tribal Experience in Papua New Guinea is an immersive cultural journey through the diverse and unique highland communities of this fascinating country. The itinerary is filled with exciting activities such as visiting coffee growers, witnessing sacred practices, traditional performances and unique festivals. Visitors get to experience firsthand the warmth and hospitality of these communities, sample their traditional cuisine, and learn about the ancient rituals and practices that have been passed down through generations.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TRIP ARE 3 CULTURAL FESTIVALS: THE ASARO MUDMEN FESTIVAL, THE SKELETON FESTIVAL & THE WATERFALL FESTIVAL.  DURING THESE 3 FESTIVALS ALONE, YOU WILL SEE OVER 40 DISTINICT TRIBES AND OVER 400 TRIBESMEN WEARING TRADITIONAL DRESS AND MAKEUP.

IN, ADDITION TO THESE 3 AMAZING FESTIVALS, The itinerary is filled with exciting activities such as visiting coffee growers, witnessing sacred practices, AND traditional performances and unique festivals. Visitors get to experience firsthand the warmth and hospitality of these communities, sample their traditional cuisine, and learn about the ancient rituals and practices that have been passed down through generations.

Witness Sacred Practices, Traditional Performances and Unique Festivals in Papua New Guinea's Highlands

The second organization of the three mini-festival trip in Papua New Guinea promises an even more spectacular experience, showcasing a variety of tribal cultures and traditions. The journey begins with the renowned Asaro Mudmen Festival, where the eerie and striking clay masks of the Asaro Mudmen take center stage. This event is further enriched by performances from more than 15 other tribes, each presenting their unique dance cultures, traditional dressings, and vibrant bilas, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Asaro Mudmen Eco Lodge. It’s a day filled with unforgettable cultural displays that leave a lasting impression.

The second highlight of the tour is the famous Skeleton Tribe Festival. This festival features the captivating performances of the Skeleton Tribe, accompanied by their two friendly groups, the Dust Shakers and the Insect Hunters. Additionally, over 10 new tribes from the surrounding areas come together at the local showground, showcasing unique bilas and dressings that have never been seen before. The diversity and richness of the cultural displays at this festival provide a rare and fascinating glimpse into the traditions of the region.

The third and final festival takes place at the stunning Wii Towai Waterfall. The Waterfall Festival features cultures that have emerged from villages deep within the Chimbu Mountains. The festival’s setting, amidst traditional villages, majestic mountains, caves, rivers, waterfalls, creeks, forests, and bamboo and banana plantations, offers an ideal backdrop for photographers. The captivating scenery and vibrant cultural displays make for an extraordinary visual feast.

The tour concludes with a visit to Mount Hagen, where visitors can experience the cultural heritage of groups like the Huli Wigmen and the Bluebearded Tribe. Whether you choose the full version of the tour or a shorter version, this journey through the diverse and rich cultures of Papua New Guinea offers an immersive and unforgettable adventure. Join us to witness the best of Papua New Guinea, where every moment is a celebration of its unique and vibrant cultural heritage.

Group Size

Maximum 20 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Easy walking and no hard treks
  • Travel by car or minibus

Weather | Sun

In June, Goroka and Mount Hagen, both located in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, experience cool temperatures with an average high of around 21°C (70°F) and an average low of around 12°C (54°F). The region is known for its misty and foggy weather, especially in the early morning and evening, with occasional rainfall.

Includes

  • Short trip: 7 days – 19th to the 25th June 2025
  • Long trip: 19th of June to the 1st of July 2025
  • Arrival airport: Goroka, PNG
  • Departure Airport: Mt Hagen, PNG  
  • Travel, landscape, and mostly ethnic tribes and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Maximum 20 Guests
  • Eco lodges (Asaro Mudmen, Skeleton eco lodges, with private shower and toilet) – Gimmesave and Waterfall are individual rooms with shared toilets and showers. 
  • Breakfasts – Lunch and dinner during the trip.
  • Fees for more than 400 performers – Traditional dressing
  • Water bottles
  • entry to all three festivals
  • Security officers
  • National park permits
  • Local transportation

Tribes you will see on this trip.

Asaro Mudmen – Moko Moko Dance – Widow ceremony – Gimisave Arunumuna Tribe Women Group – Burning heads of Gimisave – Yangpela Asaro Mudboys – Bere Tribe – Skeleton Tribe – Narku dust Walkers aka The Ash Kondai Pia – The Insect Hunters of Mindima – Bogo Tribes – Graiku Tribe –  Sekaka Tribe – Jiwaka Tribes – Forest Skull Kids of Koskala – Bird spirits of the Wii Towai Waterfall – Voice of Bird of Paradise – Towa Rocks String Band – Widowism – Kids fighting re-enactment – Tomamapre Gapabulko Girls – Sinamuglae – Black Bird of Paradise – Honey Bee Girls – Bow and Arrow Boys – Green Leaf Girls – Galmagaki Girls – Korma Boys – New Camp Mamas –  Kopa Warai Tribe – Harwal Tribe – Black Eyes String Band – Kowane tribe 

Your Photographer

David Van Driessche

www.davidvandriessche.com 

David Van Driessche, also known as David Dennis, is a travel photographer with a flair for capturing eye-catching photographs of places and people. Originally from Belgium, David studied photography and film in Europe and worked as a tourism product manager in the 1990s, where he traveled the world photographing some of the finest hotels and resorts around the globe. Eventually, he settled in Thailand and has since explored much of Asia over the past 20 years, photographing destinations and leading hotels in countries such as Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Indonesia, and China.

READ MORE ABOUT DAVID HERE

ITINERARY

Departure from your airport to your connection destination to Port Moresby

Arrival in Port Moresby and overnight.

Flight to Asaro. In the afternoon we will head to the village of Gimisave by local bus and visit the community of coffee growers where we also see the performance of three cultural groups: The Gimisave Arunumuna Tribe Women Group, the Yangpela Asaro Mudboys,  and the blue hour of the evening performance of the Burning heads of Gimisave. You will also see a performance of traditional Bamboo Cooking and taste some local foods.
Back to the Asaro Mudmen tribal eco lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Today we visit the Bena Tribe for seeing the Tongue Bleeding and the Cane Swallowing rituals. The Neheya Initiation was a reserved practice for men in the Bena area of Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea. The canes swallowing ritual (Neheya Initiation) often referred to as ‘Drin Kol Wara’ (Drink Cold Water) by the Bena people of Eastern Highlands. The Neheya Initiation is practiced only by men. It is sacred, women were never allowed to know about it in the old days. Back to the Asaro Mudmen tribal eco lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Today is a big day, we will see a huge gathering of Asaro Mudmen and also some other visiting cultural groups. We organize a traditional Mumu, or underground cooking with a roasted Pig. We will also see the Jungle Kids of Akameku, the masked performers of Kurekuwo, the Moko Moko War Victory dance and the Bere Bere fighting Warriors and many more. This day we start to see the dressing of the warriors and groups after breakfast and finish around 2 or 3 PM in the afternoon. In the evening we have a small after party around a huge campfire. Stay at the Asaro Mudmen tribal eco lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Morning transfer to Mindima. Lunch and relax. At 3 PM first performance of the Dust Shakers and the Skeleton Tribe at the side of the river, small walk to the bottom of the valley. Dust Shakers are widowers after a few years they are ready to date again and want to show their strength and body to the ladies in the village. Try to get a photo when the dust flies around their whole body.

Back by 5, 6 PM at the Skeleton Eco Lodge. Dinner and overnight.

On the day of the Skeleton Festival, the atmosphere is electric as over ten tribes gather to celebrate Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage. The festival, set in the Skeleton Tribe’s ancestral lands, features a series of captivating performances.

The day begins with the melodic tunes of the String Band, followed by the rhythmic beats of Pispis Rock. The Sorcerers then showcase their mystic rituals, and the Mekudokodaka tribe performs intricate dances. The Spirits of Welame captivate the audience with their ethereal presence.

Courting Rituals highlight romantic traditions, followed by the solemn Ceremony of the Dead. The Skeleton Dance is a highlight, with its eerie and entrancing choreography. Insect Hunters demonstrate their unique skills, and the Dust Shakers bring an energetic performance.

The Simbu Play presents traditional storytelling, while tribes in Traditional Bilas display their exquisite adornments. Bamboo Dancers and Bamboo Flute players add musical harmony to the festival. Courting Traditions are revisited, highlighting symbolic gestures between young men and women.

Traditional Gardeners share their wisdom on cultivating the land. As twilight approaches, Fire Dancers light up the evening with a spectacular display, concluding with Men’s Discipline Before Marriage in the Men’s House, emphasizing strength and community.

As night falls, the Skeleton Festival leaves a lasting impression, celebrating the vibrant culture of Papua New Guinea’s tribes.

 

 

Morning: Kamunyombglo Tribe

As the sun rises over the village of Gumbo, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the lush greenery of the Kamunyombglo tribe. The focal point of the village is a towering tree hut, perched high above the ground. This structure serves as the residence of the tribe’s revered sorcerer.

Upon entering the hut, you’ll encounter the sorcerer, adorned in traditional attire and surrounded by symbolic artifacts. Here, you have the unique opportunity to experience the ancient art of divination. The sorcerer may use various methods, from reading bones to interpreting natural signs, to offer insights into the future. Alternatively, you might be treated to a mesmerizing song, echoing the tales of the tribe’s history and culture.

We head to the mountains (40 minutes walk) and have our picknick lunch near Skeleton Cave. We visit the cave and full morning Skeleton Tribe performance in the mystical cave where the legend of the Skeleton Tribe started. Later afternoon we head back to the Skeleton Tribe Eco Lodge for dinner and overnight.

On this day, the group will split into two. The first group, preparing for their international flight tomorrow, will head to Mt Hagen. After breakfast, they will check out of the lodge and travel to Mt Hagen by private vehicle. Upon arrival, they will have the opportunity to explore the local market or visit a nearby cultural site, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon is free for shopping or relaxation before returning to their hotel to prepare for their journey home.

The second group, anticipating the upcoming festival, will head to the Wii Towai Waterfall area. After breakfast and checking out of the lodge, they will embark on a scenic drive to the waterfall. Upon arrival, they will check in at the Chimbu-style lodge nestled amidst the greenery. The rest of the day will be spent exploring the lush surroundings and getting a taste of the local culture in preparation for the vibrant festival the next day. The day concludes with a traditional Papuan dinner at the lodge, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the waterfall and the enchanting wilderness.

As the golden rays of the sun pierce through the dense canopy, the vibrant sounds of traditional instruments echo through the air, heralding the start of a grand festival at Wii Towai Waterfall. Tribes from across the region gather in this sacred place, transforming it into a lively celebration of Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.

The festivities begin with the Wii Towai Singsing Group, known as the “Voice of Bird of Paradise,” whose harmonious melodies set a reverent tone. Their enchanting performance, echoing the natural symphony of the cascading waterfall, captivates all in attendance. Following this, the Gapabulko Girls take the stage, their spirited dances and colorful attire showcasing their unique traditions.

The Sinamuglae Black Bird of Paradise tribe follows, their performance steeped in symbolism and beauty, while the Honey Bee Girls and Bow and Arrow Boys demonstrate their ancient crafts and storytelling through mesmerizing enactments. As the day progresses, the Harwal Tribe and Korma Boys present their heritage through intricate dances and rituals, drawing the audience into the heart of their culture.

Mid-afternoon brings the Kopa Warai Tribe and Black Eyes String Band, whose rhythmic beats and lively performances energize the crowd. 

As the sun sets, the festival at Wii Towai Waterfall concludes with a communal feast, where traditional Papuan cuisine is shared among the tribes and visitors. The air is filled with laughter, stories, and the bonds of newfound friendships, celebrating the unity and diversity of Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural landscape.

Morning Transfer to Jiwaka

In the morning, we will transfer to Jiwaka, where you’ll experience a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Afternoon

Upon arrival, you’ll witness the Jiwaka Tribes in their full bilas, adorned with vibrant feathers and elaborate headdresses. This captivating display includes men, women, and bamboo flute players from the Sekaka Tribe. We’ll also visit a traditional men’s house, offering a unique insight into their customs and way of life.

The highlight of the afternoon will be the mesmerizing performance by the Forest Skull Kids of Koskala, showcasing their distinctive traditions and art forms.

Transfer to Kumul, an excellent destination for montage New Guinea birding and where Birds of Paradise are amongst the regulars at the feeders, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Other regulars at the feeders include Brehm’s Tiger Parrot, Smoky Honeyeater, Belford’s Melidectes and Island Thrush. Chestnut Forest Rail is occasionally seen beneath the feeder while Crested Berrypecker and White-winged Robin are often seen nearby. 

Start your day with breakfast at Kumul Lodge, enjoying the serene surroundings and a hearty meal to fuel your adventure. After breakfast, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area by watching the magnificent Bird of Paradise. Kumul Lodge is famous for its sightings of these exotic birds, and you’ll have until late morning to observe them in their natural habitat.

Once you’ve had your fill of bird watching, you’ll head back to Mount Hagen. Upon arrival, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a top-rated Western restaurant in the city, where you can enjoy a familiar and satisfying meal.

After lunch, take some time to explore the local mall. This is a perfect opportunity for some leisurely shopping, whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or simply enjoying the modern amenities and diverse stores.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit a small village near Hagen to meet the Huli Wigmen. The Huli Wigmen are known for their striking traditional attire, which includes elaborate wigs made from human hair and adorned with colorful feathers and other decorations. These wigs are a significant part of their culture and are often created over several years, representing strength and status. The Huli Wigmen also paint their faces with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, adding to their dramatic appearance. During your visit, you’ll learn about their customs, traditional rituals, and the significance of their unique attire, providing a deeper understanding of their rich cultural heritage.

As the day comes to a close, you’ll return to your hotel in Mount Hagen, reflecting on the diverse and enriching experiences of the day.

Waking up at 6 AM in Mt. Hagen, the day begins with breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to the Tambul Nebilyer district. Upon arrival in the Enguwal Tribe’s village, a warm welcome with traditional songs and dances sets the tone for the visit.

A guided tour of the village reveals traditional homes, gardens, and communal spaces, providing insights into the tribe’s agricultural practices and history. You’ll then experience the intricate art of bilas, or ceremonial dressing, with artisans demonstrating the creation of their stunning attire from materials like bamboo, bark cloth, and feathers.

Afterwards, a traditional meal is shared with the community, offering a taste of local flavors and a chance to engage in conversation about their culinary traditions. The highlight of the visit is the Kuru Ware Story, a captivating dance performance that recounts the tribe’s legendary tale of Gale and the tree kangaroo, illustrating their cultural identity. We also visit a beautifull waterfall with the tribe to get some amazing photos. Around 3 PM we head back to Mt Hagen and overnight.

After breakfast we head to the aiport for our flight to Port Moresby.

Arrival at your home airport

OPTIONS & BENEFITS

  • Short trip : 7 days – 19th to the 25th June 2025: 3700 USD

  • Long trip: 19th of June to the 1st of July 2025: 6200 USD

– Local English speaking guide

– All room nights in shared double room

– Transportation for the whole trip

– Breakfast lunch and dinner (all meals)

– Performances for all cultural groups and tribes

– Guided walks to caves and mountains

– Taxes and fees

– Basic Laundry

– International and domestic flights to: Goroka 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 the 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.

Skeleton Tribe Festival – June – 2025-2026

Three mini festival trip: Asaro Tribal Gathering, Skeleton Tribe Festival and Waterfall Festival 

Waterfall Tribal Festival- June – 2025-2026

FOR BOOKING SEND AN EMAIL TO info@tribesofpapuanewguinea.com or start a call for more information on Whatsapp (Free call) +66869777027 – Please send a message first and inform you want to talk about making a reservation.

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 8 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 PNG, EU, USA or Thailand (Asia).

– Please bring warm clothing for the evenings.

– There is no mosquito problem in the highlands during the dry season

– 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/