Things to do in Highlands Region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Highlands Region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore enduring sites and traditional settlements that tell the Highlands' story through time.
Asaro Mudmen Village
Experience the iconic mud-dance tradition of the Asaro people and learn about their history.
Huli Wigmen Village (Tari)
Visit a Huli community to see the distinctive carved wigs and ceremonial dress.
World War II relics around Mount Hagen
Explore scattered WWII remnants and memorial sites near the highland town of Mount Hagen.
Museums
Dive into Highlands culture and history through dedicated local museums and centers.
Eastern Highlands Museum, Goroka
Cultural artifacts and history showcases from the Highlands.
Chimbu Cultural Centre Museum, Kundiawa
Exhibits on Simbu traditions, crafts, and ancestral history.
Goroka local ethnographic displays
Informal museums and community displays featuring Highlands artifacts.
Religious Monuments
Visit notable religious sites that reflect the spiritual landscape of the Highlands.
St. Michael's Cathedral, Goroka
A prominent church in Goroka with colonial-era architectural touches.
Kundiawa Cathedral
Central church serving the Simbu region with rich Highlands heritage.
National & Theme Parks
Explore protected landscapes and scenic spots that showcase Highlands biodiversity and views.
Mt Wilhelm National Park
Gateway to PNG’s highest peak with alpine-inspired scenery.
Mt Hagen Nature Reserve
Protected highland forest area offering viewpoints and biodiversity.
Tari Gorge Nature Reserve
Spectacular gorge with trails and panoramic viewpoints.
Neighborhoods
Get a feel for the Highlands by strolling through its key towns and neighborhoods.
Mt Hagen (city center)
Bustling markets, cafés, and a hub for highland adventures.
Goroka (town center)
Vibrant markets, crafts, and access to Highland culture.
Tari (Tari township)
Traditional highland town known for Huli and cultural experiences.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy budget-friendly experiences that put Highland life and landscapes front and center.
Village welcome and dances (free view)
Watch a local welcome and traditional dancing in a Highland village.
Hike short Mount Wilhelm trails
Take a free scenic walk along beginner-friendly paths.
Walk through Goroka Market area
Stroll the market streets to observe daily life and color.
Gastronomy
Taste iconic Highlands flavors and cooking traditions.
Mumu feast (earth oven)
Sample traditional earth-oven cooked meats and vegetables.
Kaukau (sweet potato) dishes
Enjoy classic Highland staples prepared with local greens.
Local greens and honey bites
Try fresh produce and honey from highland markets.
Nightlife
evenings come alive with music, social venues, and local performances.
Live music at Mt Hagen bars
Relax with local musicians and regional songs after dark.
Traditional drumming and singing at lodges
Experience Highland rhythms in welcoming venues.
Goroka evening markets and performances
Evening cultural displays in market areas during festivals.
Entertainment
Catch renowned Highland performances and seasonal festivals.
Mt. Hagen Cultural Show
One of PNG’s most vibrant highland cultural showcases.
Goroka Show
Colorful festival featuring tribal dances, costumes, and music.
Hela Province cultural performances
Live performances highlighting Huli and other highland groups.
Sports
Join or observe local sports and outdoor activities in the highlands.
Rugby league matches in Mount Hagen
Local games featuring PNG league teams.
Basketball games in Goroka venues
Community games and local leagues.
Traditional Highland games demonstrations
Shows of archery, stone throwing, and spear throwing.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the crowds with trails and authentic cultural encounters.
Trek to Mount Wilhelm base camp
A rewarding hike with highland scenery and villages.
Tari Gorge hike
Spectacular gorge with panoramic views and trails.
Asaro Mudmen village walk
Explore the mud village and learn about culture off the beaten path.