The Sepik River
This river is the longest in Papua New Guinea. It meanders from the mountains near the Indonesian border through undeveloped areas of jungle, swamps and grasslands before reaching the 1.6 km wide estuary. The Sepik forms countless tortuous waterways, lakes, tributaries, swamps and lagoons. Some channels were created for straightening. The Tambaran House in Angoram exhibits artworks from the areas along the entire course of the river. In the village of Kambaramba and other localities, houses are built on stilts to protect them from flooding, and the dugout is the chief means of transport; cruises are organized for visitors. It is easy to see from the roof gables and house posts that woodcarving is one of the most important regional crafts. Particularly fine examples can be found in the village of Tambanum.
- Topschoolsintheusa: Guides to study in Papua New Guinea, including geography, climate, economy, and tourism of the country.
More examples of local building techniques (including bridge building) can be found in Timbunke.
The Chambri Lakes area is home to some of the many bird species for which Papua New Guinea is famous, including great egrets, pied herons, pronghorn harriers, cormorants and kingfishers. Another attraction of the Chambri region is the village of Aibom, where chimneys, saucepans and other vessels are made of ceramics by women and fired in open fireplaces.
In Kanganaman, a house Tambaran, which is of great importance for the national culture, is being rebuilt. Korogo is famous for its » Mei masks «.
In the upper reaches of the Sepik, insect totems dominate tribal groups and art forms. The prows of the canoes are often as elaborately decorated as the ladders leading to the dwellings. In Waskusk, on the ceiling of the Tambaran house, a leader’s dream is told. The place is sometimes inaccessible depending on the condition of the river. In Yigei you can Garamut – See and hear drums (“slit gongs”) in the style of the upper Sepik. In Swagap, interesting white and yellow patterns run along the water. This village produces simple but elegant pottery and fireplaces, as well as excellent quality canoes.
In addition to the varied bird life of the Chambri lakes, the diverse animal life on the Sepik and its tributaries is also fascinating. Large areas of swamp and grass along the river are home to waders, herons, osprey and many other wild birds. Sometimes night or early morning excursions into the jungle are offered to witness the unique sounds the birds make as they prepare to hunt.
Various river cruises are also organized, but the routes are flexible as they depend on local conditions, and attempts are made to introduce visitors to as many interesting local customs and festivals as possible.
Madang
Madang is the capital of the province of the same name and the starting point for many island tours and boat trips on the Sepik River (see separate chapter). The town has numerous shops, hotels, restaurants and markets. In the nearby towns of Yabobs and Bilbils you can see traditional pottery being made.
The people of the Manam Islands make their houses from interwoven leaves and petioles of sago and toddy palms. The people of the Ramu Riverbuild similar houses but stand on stilts. Their traditional carvings are influenced by the Sepik tribes. The mountain people are shorter than other population groups in Papua New Guinea. They grow lettuce, radishes, cabbage and potatoes. Collars made from dog’s teeth, headbands made from tambu shells and amulets made from pig’s tusks are very popular with the families of the coastal inhabitants.
Port Moresby
The capital Port Moresby is located at the port of Fairfax. Here you will find the National Parliament and Museum, the Botanical Garden and the Catholic Church (in the house Tambaran style). There are many sporting opportunities (including diving, windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, golf, tennis and squash).
The surroundings of the capital also offer a wealth of sights. These include the Kokoda and Sogeri Roads : the 40 km long Kokoda Road starts in Port Moresby and the Sogeri Road winds through numerous rubber plantations to many breathtaking viewpoints.
Village Arts Located near the airport in Six Mile, is a state-owned arts and crafts store that features the best artifact display in the country.
Other points of interest near Port Moresby include Wairiata National Park, Moitaka Crocodile Farm, Loloata Island and the Sea Park Oceanarium.
