Photo expedition to Mount Hagen annual festival, Kalam ad hoc festival in Simbai and private sing sing shows

PAPUA NEW GUINEA
December 30, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Tour
Papua New Guinea

photo Tour to Papua expedition tour toMount Hagen Festival tour to Goroka Show Sepik Papua New Guinea Port Morsebey photo tour to New Guinea Sing-Sing

Dassanech Karo tribe Bulls jumping ceremony Assale Afar
New Guinea, the second largest island in the world, is a land where complexity reigns. The extreme diversity of natural environments is reflected in fragmentation of the people, languages, customs and traditions that is unlike any other country on Earth. Inhabitants of New Guinea speak almost 1000 distinct languages, comprising almost a fifth of all the languages spoken on the planet.

Every year Mount Hagen hosts the famous inter-tribal festival, the Sing Sing. The representatives of more than hundreds of peoples meet here to parade and compete peacefully in a grand contest of vanity. Inhabitants of the last land forgotten by time present body painting with extremely pronounced colors and patterns. It appears the most spectacular tribal cultural festival on Earth and iconic event for any photographer.

Our program is specifically designed for photographers and comprises Mount Hagen Festival, remote and authentic small ad hoc festival of Kalam tribe in Simbai, Paiya pre-show and private ceremonies, shows and photo sessions with good opportunity to photograph Skeleton people, Asaro Mudmen, Huli Wigmen and Kalam tribe, and see some unique ceremonies such as Cane Swallowing ritual of BenaBena people or Boys rite of passage in Kalam tribe.

New Guinea, the second largest island in the world, is a land where complexity reigns. The extreme diversity of natural environments is reflected in fragmentation of the people, languages, customs and traditions that is unlike any other country on Earth. Inhabitants of New Guinea speak almost 1000 distinct languages, comprising almost a fifth of all the languages spoken on the planet.

Every year Mount Hagen hosts the famous inter-tribal festival, the Sing Sing. The representatives of hundreds of peoples meet here to parade and compete peacefully in a grand contest of vanity. Inhabitants of the last land forgotten by time present body painting with extremely pronounced colors and patterns. It appears the most spectacular tribal cultural festival on Earth and iconic event for any photographer.

Our program is specifically designed for photographers and comprises Mount Hagen Festival, remote Tsendiap festival and private Sing-Sing show with good opportunity to photograph Skeleton people, Asaro Mudmen, Huli Wigmen and Kalam tribe.

SСHEDULE & COST:
Dates: December 30, 2025 – January 7, 2026

Duration: 9 days / 8 nights

Number of participants: 8 – 12

Cost per person:
– USD, subject to 12 participants, or
– USD, subject to 10 – 11 participants, or
– USD, subject to 8 – 9 participants.

10% early booking discount (in case you book before July 30, 2025)

Everything is included (also 2 charter flights and full board meals) except from:
- international flight to Port Moresby roundtrip,
- 2 domestic flights,
- medical insurance,
- Papua New Guinea visa (e-visa at USD 50 for Russians).

Estimated cost of international flight Singapore – Port Moresby – Singapore: USD 900 – 1000
Estimated cost of international flight Moscow – Port Moresby – Moscow (via Singapore or Manila): USD 2100 (Usually bought on your own, we consult you).

Estimated cost of international flight Port Moresby – Mount Hagen and Goroka – Madang USD 300 – 500

Single supplement: USD





TRAVEL PROGRAM: tour Papua New Guinea

Day 1. December 30, 2025 (Tuesday). PORT MORESBY – MOUNT HAGEN – PANGA VILLAGE (HULI WIGMEN TRIBE) – MOUNT HAGEN

Arrive in Port Moresby and take connecting flight PX180 (POM/HGU 08:00–09:30). Upon landing in Mount Hagen, meet our guide and transfer to the hotel, stopping en route at Panga Village to witness the Huli Wigmen’s traditional singsing dance performance in full ceremonial attire. We learn about the intricate process of growing and crafting Huli wigs, witness a woman’s initiation ritual, and visit a Huli family homestead.
After it, we enjoy a late lunch at Kopi Kai restaurant. At 14:00, we embark on a scenic drive through the Waghi Valley, pausing at a local fruit and vegetable market before returning to the hotel.
Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, relaxing in the comfort of the hotel until dinner.

Recommended flights to Port Moresby:
any other flight from Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila or any other city, arriving in Port Moresby no later than at 5 am on December 30.

Recommended flights from Port Moresby to Mt Hagen:
- flight by Air Niuguini daparting from Port Moresby at 08:00 am and arriving in Mt Hagen at 09:30 am am on December 30.
- any other flight arriving in Mt Hagen no later than at 9:30 am on December 30.

Meals included: lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Highlander Hotel 4* or similar


Day 2. December 31, 2025 (Wednesday). PRIVATE CULTURAL MINI SHOW

Today we witness a private cultural showcase arranged exclusively for us, featuring performances by 10 remarkable tribal groups. This intimate event offers a unique opportunity to not just observe, but actively participate in traditional dances, face painting, and even wear authentic ceremonial costumes alongside local performers during the vibrant singsing celebrations.
Full-Day Cultural Showcase will feature Melpa Men's Warrior Dances, Melpa Women's Graceful Performances, Huli Wigmen's Iconic Rituals, Silimuli Women's Traditional Songs, Jiwaka Women's Cultural Expressions, Tambul Men's Energetic Displays, Simbu Skeleton Boys' Unique Ceremonies, Morobe Region's Distinctive Traditions, Madang's Colorful Performances and Melpa Widow Women's Sacred Rituals.
We also attend special cultural demonstration - traditional Mumu earth oven preparation and Pig roasting ceremony. Following this immersive day of cultural exchange, we'll return to the hotel.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Highlander Hotel 4* or similar


Day 3. January 1, 2026 (Thursday). MOUNT HAGEN – MINDIMA VILLAGE (CHIMBU SKELETON TRIBE)

We will depart Mount Hagen and journey to Simbu Province, where we'll spend the day with the renowned Skeleton Tribe in Mindima Village. This immersive cultural experience will include:
  • Simbu Women's Singsing: Witness vibrant traditional dances and songs performed by the women of the tribe.
  • Brideprice Ceremony: Observe the intricate customs of marriage negotiations and exchanges.
  • Omo Masalai Performance: Be captivated by the haunting skeleton spirit ritual, a unique cultural tradition.
  • Funeral & Burial Rituals: Gain insight into the tribe's sacred ceremonies honoring the deceased.
  • Widow's Customs: Learn about the traditional practices and roles of widows in the community.
  • Family Homestead Visit: Explore daily life in a local family compound.
As night falls, we'll enjoy dinner followed by a Courtship Ceremony, where young tribe members engage in traditional rituals of romance and partnership.
Back to the hotel.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Mindima Eco Guest House


Day 4. January 2, 2026 (Friday). ASARO MUDMEN VILLAGE - MOKO-MOKO TRIBE - GOROKA

Our adventure continues as we drive toward Goroka, stopping first at the renowned Asaro Mudman Komunive Village. Here, you'll witness the legendary Asaro Mudmen—known for their striking clay masks and ghostly appearance—alongside their neighboring Mudman warriors as they perform their mesmerizing traditional dances exclusively for our group.
After this unforgettable encounter, we'll proceed to our hotel to check in and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, the cultural immersion deepens with a visit to the Moko-Moko tribe. Experience their vibrant dance performances before witnessing the extraordinary Bena Bena Cain Swallowing Ritual—a sacred and rarely seen demonstration of spiritual power and endurance.
As the day concludes, we'll return to the hotel, reflecting on the remarkable traditions we've encountered—from the haunting Mudmen to the awe-inspiring rituals of the Highlands.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Bird of Paradise Hotel


Day 5. January 3, 2026 (Saturday). LUFA-KEMASE VILLAGE - GOROKA EXPLORING

Our day begins with a journey to Lufa-Kemase village, where we'll discover the remarkable geological formations of obsidian and limestone, including a historically significant cave. This site holds deep cultural importance for the Kemase tribe, as their ancestors once used it for ceremonial practices, including ritual cannibalism.
After exploring these fascinating natural and historical wonders, we'll return to Goroka for a late lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, we'll immerse ourselves in local culture with visits to the bustling Goroka market, where you can browse traditional crafts and fresh produce, and the provincial museum, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of the Eastern Highlands' diverse tribes.
We'll return to the hotel in the evening, having gained unique insights into both the ancient traditions and contemporary life of this remarkable region.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Bird of Paradise Hotel


Day 6. January 4, 2026 (Saturday). GOROKA - MADANG

After an early breakfast, we'll depart Goroka and travel along the scenic Highlands Highway toward Madang. The journey will include several stops to experience local life at roadside markets, with a lunch break at the Ramu Sugar and Oil Palm Station.
Upon arrival in Madang, we'll check in at the Madang Resort to freshen up.
Unlike the scattered villages of the Highlands, Madang's communities offer a more concentrated cultural experience. Here, villages typically consist of 20 or more houses, home to 2-3 major tribes and their sub-clans living together in one vibrant setting—providing an authentic window into daily life, traditions, and social structures.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Madang Resort


Day 7. January 5, 2026 (Sunday). REMPI TRIBE - ACTIVITIES IN MADANG

Our morning begins with an immersive visit to the Rempi tribe along Madang's picturesque north coast. Here, we'll experience authentic tribal life through traditional singsing performances and firsthand observation of their centuries-old customs and daily routines. Witness how this coastal community harmoniously blends traditional practices with modern influences.
We'll return to the resort for a late lunch featuring fresh local ingredients.
The afternoon offers flexible leisure options to suit your preferences:
  • Marine Exploration: Discover Madang's renowned underwater world through diving or snorkeling.
  • Coastal Relaxation: Swim in the crystal-clear waters or unwind by the resort pool.
  • Resort Amenities: Enjoy the comfort of our seaside accommodations at your own pace.
This balanced day combines meaningful cultural engagement with opportunities to experience Madang's spectacular natural beauty and premium hospitality.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Madang Resort


Day 8. January 6, 2026 (Monday). BILBIL AND BALEK VILLAGES - ACTIVITIES IN MADANG

Today, we delve deeper into the traditions of the Amele people with visits to the coastal villages of Bilbil and Balek. This immersive experience will showcase:
  • Traditional singsing dances performed in authentic village settings
  • Coastal homestead life, offering insights into daily routines by the sea
  • Indigenous boat-building techniques, including the crafting of distinctive dugout outrigger canoes
  • The art of tribal poetry composition, a unique cultural expression
  • Community-led conservation efforts protecting local wildlife and ecosystems
After this enriching cultural encounter, we'll return to the resort for a late lunch featuring fresh coastal flavors.
The afternoon presents three ways to experience Madang's marine wonders:
  1. Snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens
  2. Swimming in the crystal-clear waters
  3. A boat excursion to picturesque Karanget Island

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Madang Resort


Day 9. January 7, 2026 (Tuesday).

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to airport for flight PX111 MAG/POM 07:30/08:30, connection to your outbound flight.

Recommended flights from Madang to Port Moresby:
- flight PX111 by Air Niugini departing from Madang at 07:30 on January 7 with arrival at Port Moresby at 08:30 (should be connected with your further international flight from Port Moresby).

Recommended international flights back from Port Moresby:
any other flight from Port Moresby to Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila or any other city, departing from Port Moresby no earlier than at 13:00 on January 7 (should be connected with flight Madang – Port Moresby).

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: -
Land cost includes:
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Tours & Transfers
- Private mini show in Mt.Hagen
- Police escort
- Local English speaking Guide
- Porters
- 2 bottled water per person per day with snacks

Land cost does not include:
- Service of clients personnel Nature
- Beverages
- Domestic Air Niugini Flights as specified in the above itinerary.



Cost includes:

· Charter domestic flight from Mount Hagen to Simbai roundtrip
· TWIN/DBL room accommodation in 4* and 3* hotels in Mount Hagen and Goroka,
· TWIN/DBL accommodation in village guest house (basic shared amenities) in Simbai:
· Full board meals (3 meals a day) throughout the whole trip
· Daily bottled water throughout the whole trip
· All airport transfers according to the program,
· All transportations according to the program: private-hire 15-seat van or 25-seater Coaster minibus depending on group size, including driver and fuel
· Porters
· All entrance fees and village photography fees, all festivals, sing-sings and ceremonies, scouting & private photo sessions
· Show passes fees and site fees
· Financial support of the tribes and local guides
· Experienced English speaking local guide
· English speaking team leader, translation into Russian




Cost excludes (to be additionally paid) :

· international flight to Port Moresby roundtrip,
· domestic flights from Port Moresby to Mt Hagen and from Goroka to Port Moresby
· international medical insurance,
· visa of Papua New Guinea (e-visa at USD 50 for Russians),
· tips for individual portrait models
· airlines excess baggage charge
· alcohol and drinks,
· personal expenses
· tips for the crew
· single room supplement




To take with:

· two wear sets (trousers, long sleeve shirt, T-shirt, underwear, socks, sun hat);
· comfortable and hard wearing shoes: 1) light ones for the towns; 2) trekking snickers or shoes for time in the tribe and photography;
· light trekking jacket, warm jacket with wind stopper for highlands;
· raincoat;
· swimsuit;
· sun glasses and sun protection cream;
· personal medical kit (analgesic, antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral, intestinal, multivitamins, rehydration, court plaster, your personal medicine);
· personal hygiene means;
· forehead torch;
· travel backpack or travel bag, up to 80 liters capacity (not big suitcase is also applicable);
· small backpack for personal stuff and photo-, video cameras;
· anti mosquito net;
· anti mosquito repellents;
· anti malaria prevention medicine (up to you);
· photo camera, video camera, tripod, drone


The authors of the photos used:
Alessandro Bergamini


KEY FEATURES:
TOUR TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA
TOUR TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Papua New Guinea


Best season: August – September


Mount Hagen Show – the famous inter-tribal festival, where the representatives of more than 100 different tribes meet to parade and compete peacefully in a grand contest of vanity.

Participation in the small ad hoc festival that presents an opportunity to experience unique culture of Kalam tribe. This festival is held in a very remote area in a wild rural environment with nearby nature attractions including rivers, waterfalls, jungles and mountains to use as scenic photo backgrounds.

Paiya pre-show sing-sing which is held on the day before the Mount Hagen Show every year and has been performed for the past 20 years. It is a private show for tourists and photographers only – no local crowds. Excellent photography in rural setting in Melpa village. There are usually about 50 different cultural/dancing groups that perform at this Sing-sing. Usually it is a good selection of the best groups that will perform at the Hagen Show, including always the Huli Wigmen and Asaro Mudmen.

Skeleton people and Omo Masalai dancing, Asaro Mudmen private show and Hili Wigmen private show. Private photo sessions with top-3 tribes.

Attending the most famous rituals such as Boys rite of passage in Kalam tribe, Cane Swallowing ritual of BenaBena people or Scared ritual of Lufa narrating about human cannibalism.

New Guinea – the island where complexity reigns. The extreme diversity of the peoples, languages, customs and traditions that is unlike any other country on Earth. Inhabitants of New Guinea speak almost 1000 distinct languages, comprising almost a fifth of all the languages spoken on the planet.

Program specifically designed for photographers comprising Mount Hagen Festival, remote small ad hoc festival of Kalam tribe and private ceremonies, shows and photo sessions with perfect opportunity to photograph Skeleton people, Asaro Mudmen, Huli Wigmen and Kalam tribe.

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