NEW GUINEA THE PARADISE ISLAND

New Guinea
The Paradise Island

July 29 -August 12, 2026

Overview:

The extraordinary island of New Guinea is a haven, hosting a population of 11 million, thousands of tribal groups, and over 1,000 languages. Its lush landscapes are home to an array of unique flora and fauna, including over 40 species of birds of paradise. Embark on this captivating journey to explore three distinct regions: the forested highlands of Rondon Ridge, the tropical beauty along the Karawari River, and the remote Baliem Valley, hidden from the outside world until 1938.

Interested in more information? To learn more about this tour operated by Miru Adventures, please contact Africa Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or  e-mail the Africa Easy Team at [email protected].

New Guinea
The Paradise Island

July 29 -August 12, 2026

Day-by-day Itinerary:

Day 1 – 29, July, 2026– Port Moresby

Arrive in Port Moresby and transfer to the Airways Hotel. Join us this evening for a welcome dinner and a briefing from your Expedition Leader, Shirley Campbell, where you can mingle with your fellow travelers.

Day 2 – 30, July, 2026 – Port moresby/ Mount Hagen/ Karawari

After breakfast, fly to Mount Hagen, then connect to Karawari. Transfer by boat to Karawari Lodge, reflecting traditional Sepik architecture with intricate artifacts. In the afternoon, visit a nearby village to learn the traditional method of harvesting and preparing sago palm, a staple food for the Sepik tribes.

Day 3 & 4 – July 31 -August 01, 2026 – Karawari

Explore the remote ‘Arambak’ region of Papua New Guinea over two days. Cruise the Karawari River, passing riverside villages and experiencing traditional ceremonies. Enjoy village visits and discover local art. Trek forest trails, spotting diverse butterflies and the Sepik blue orchid. Keep an eye out for crocodiles during our river exploration.

Day 5 – 02, August, 2026 – Karawari/ Mount Hagen/ Rondon Ridge

After breakfast, fly from Karawari to Mount Hagen and transfer to Rondon Ridge Lodge. Relax in your room overlooking the Wahgi Valley before exploring forest trails on a guided birding and nature walk in the afternoon.

Day 6 & 7 – 03-04, August, 2026 – Rondon Ridge

Explore Rondon Ridge’s untouched rainforests and diverse birdlife, home to over 180 species, including twelve types of birds of paradise. Engage with the Melpa people, experiencing their rich horticultural traditions and vibrant dance performances.

Day 8 – 05, August, 2026 – Rondon Ridge/ Mount Hagen/ Vanimo

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Mount Hagen for our flight to Vanimo. Upon arrival in Vanimo, we’ll check in to the Sandaun Beach Hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 9 – 06, August, 2026 – Vanimo/ Jayapura

Today, embark on a scenic coastal drive from Vanimo to Jayapura, tracing the central northern side of the island. We’ll cross from Papua New Guinea into Indonesia and upon arrival in Jayapura, check in to our hotel, ideally situated on Jotefa Bay.

Day 10 – 07, August, 2026 – Jayapura/ Wamena

After breakfast, head to Jayapura airport and check in for our short flight to Wamena, the largest town in Indonesia’s Papua highlands. Upon arrival and settling into our hotel, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the local outdoor market, immersing ourselves in the hustle and bustle of local life.

Day 11,12, & 13 – 08-10, August, 2026 – Baliem Valley

Immerse yourself in a three-day adventure exploring the majestic Jayawijaya Mountains and enchanting Baliem Valley, coinciding with the Baliem Valley Culture Festival. Enjoy traditional cuisine and engaging activities like mock battles and dance performances. Encounter indigenous Dani, Lani, and Yali tribes secluded by towering peaks. Explore vibrant markets, join a traditional feast, and gain insights into Dani daily life.

Day 14 – 11, August, 2026 – Wamena/ Jayapura/ Jakarta

Bid farewell to the Baliem Valley as we fly back to Jayapura and connect to Jakarta, arriving in time for dinner. Check in to a hotel conveniently located at Jakarta’s international airport for easy access to our international departures.

Day 15 – 12, August, 2026 – Jakarta/ Homeward

Depart on your independent flight from Jakarta.

*Please note: This itinerary is subject to change. In the spirit of expedition travel, plans may change slightly to take full advantage of encounters with the destination and its people, culture, and wildlife. This trip is operated through Miru Adventures. 

Meet Your Leader:

Shirley Campbell
Social Anthropologist & Expedition Leader

As a cultural anthropologist, Shirley’s made it her life’s work to dig her way through the world and share what she’s learned. Her admiration for remote peoples is infectious.

New Guinea
The Paradise Island

July 29 -August 12, 2026

Rates:

Trip Package Rate: Approx.

Per Person: $12,990
Single Supplement: $1,990

Group Size: 10 travelers

– Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
– Rates are approximate until the time of booking
– Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice
– Rates are based on availability at the time of booking

International Airfare:

Africa Easy does not make international air reservations and international air is not included in your quote. However, please do let us know if you would like assistance with booking your international air. We would be happy to put you in touch with our airline partner, Exito Travel to assist you with your international air reservation.

Included:

– 14 nights accommodation
– All meals including non-alcoholic drinks
– All excursions, transportation, and local guides
– Park fees
– Taxes and permits
– Gratuities
– Arrival and departure assistance
– Internal airfare in New Guinea and Indonesia

General Information:

– Medical Evacuation insurance is mandatory for travel with Africa Easy and proof of purchase is required. Africa Easy also strongly recommends purchasing a policy that includes trip cancellation /interruption coverage.

Deposit & Payments:

A completed & signed Africa Easy Reservation Form, along with your 25% trip deposit and full regional and/or domestic air payment (if applicable) is required at the time of booking.

Reservations:

This itinerary is subject to the availability of all services at the time of making a reservation. No space is being held at this time. Please contact Africa Easy for the full terms and conditions that apply. We are happy to answer questions and discuss your trip.

To reserve space on a trip on the Africa Easy website, please contact Africa Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or (206) 284-2319. Click here to e-mail the Africa Easy Team.