Mendi, the capital of the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. Located in the Mendi River Valley at an elevation of 1,675 meters, Mendi is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Mount Giluwe, the second-highest peak in Papua New Guinea. This small township provides the perfect base for travelers to explore natural wonders like Lake Kutubu and the Tari Basin. Nestled amidst rolling hills, lush valleys, and misty highlands, Mendi is a charming town that provides an authentic highlands experience. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Mendi offers visitors a peaceful escape into the heart of Papua New Guinea’s highland communities. Whether you’re eager to explore majestic mountain trails, learn about traditional customs, or simply immerse yourself in the hospitality of the highlands people, Mendi offers a wealth of experiences to discover.
Why Visit Mendi
Mendi is the perfect base for exploring the Southern Highlands, an area known for its vibrant tribal culture and picturesque landscapes. With the region’s towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and fertile valleys, Mendi embodies the natural beauty of Papua New Guinea’s highlands. The area is also famous for its warm and welcoming communities, who maintain their traditional ways of life with pride. From annual cultural events to community-based eco-tourism, Mendi offers a variety of ways to connect with the unique heritage and stunning nature of the highlands.
Top Things to Do
Enjoy Adventure Activities at Kiburu Lodge
Kiburu Lodge in Mendi offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy bushwalking, birdwatching, trout fishing, and even white water rafting. The lodge is the perfect starting point for adventure in the surrounding highlands and is highly recommended for those looking to connect with nature.
Explore the Imposing Lai Valley
Lai Valley is one of the most picturesque spots near Mendi, surrounded by towering peaks and lush green fields. Visitors can enjoy hikes through the valley, taking in the magnificent scenery of terraced gardens and traditional homesteads. The valley is an ideal place for photography enthusiasts to capture the natural beauty of the highlands, and for anyone looking to escape the bustle of town life and immerse themselves in nature.
Attend the Mendi Cultural Show
The Mendi Cultural Show is one of the key cultural highlights of the Southern Highlands. Held annually, this vibrant event brings together different tribes from across the region to celebrate their unique customs through sing-sings (traditional dances), music, and elaborate costumes. The show is a feast for the senses, with participants painting their faces in striking colors and wearing intricate headdresses made from feathers and animal skins. Attending the Mendi Cultural Show is a wonderful opportunity to witness the rich cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea firsthand.
Trek to Mount Giluwe
For adventure enthusiasts, trekking Mount Giluwe is an unforgettable experience. As the second-highest peak in Papua New Guinea, Mount Giluwe stands at 4,367 meters and offers challenging but rewarding hikes for those seeking to experience the stunning views of the highlands region. The trek to the summit takes you through lush rainforest, sub-alpine meadows, and grasslands, providing glimpses of the unique wildlife and flora of the region. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking, making it well worth the effort.
Visit the Mendi Market
The Mendi Market is a lively place where locals gather to sell fresh produce, traditional crafts, and other goods. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in daily life and interact with friendly vendors. Here, you can find locally grown produce like sweet potatoes, taro, bananas, and a variety of fresh greens. The market is also a great place to pick up handmade crafts, including woven bilums (bags), perfect as a keepsake to remember your time in the highlands.
Experience the Traditional Way of Life
Mendi is home to many highland tribes, and a visit to one of the nearby villages is a must for those wanting an authentic cultural experience. One such experience involves a trip to the Tari Basin, home of the Huli people. Here, visitors can witness the fascinating culture of the Huli Wigmen, known for their ornate headdresses made of real hair. You can join a cultural tour to learn about their customs, including the coming-of-age rituals that define Huli manhood. The region is also renowned for its incredible birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The villagers are known for their hospitality and are often happy to share their customs and traditions with visitors. Participate in a traditional mumu feast, where food is cooked underground using heated stones, and learn about the importance of land and pigs in highland culture. Witnessing the locals’ way of life provides a deeper understanding of the unique customs and social structures that define the highlands.
Visit the Baiyer River Bird Sanctuary
A short journey from Mendi will take you to the Baiyer River Bird Sanctuary, a vast reserve that is home to hundreds of bird species, including the famous bird of paradise. For birdwatching enthusiasts, the sanctuary provides an excellent opportunity to spot these exotic creatures in their natural habitat. The sanctuary also features well-marked walking trails, making it easy for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings at their own pace.
Local Culture & Cuisine
The culture of Mendi and the wider Southern Highlands is rich and diverse. The people of this region take pride in their heritage, with traditions passed down through generations. Local cuisine features ingredients grown in the fertile highlands, including kaukau (sweet potatoes), taro, and yams, often prepared in a mumu—an underground oven that imparts a smoky, earthy flavor to the food. A visit to the Mendi Market is also a culinary adventure, where you can sample locally produced goods and perhaps even try some homemade delicacies. Coffee is another local specialty, with the Southern Highlands producing some of the finest beans in Papua New Guinea, known for their bold and rich flavor.
Annual Festivals & Shows
In addition to the Mendi Cultural Show, the Southern Highlands host other local events that celebrate traditional customs and lifestyles. The Hela Wigmen Festival is another notable event where the famous Huli Wigmen—known for their elaborately decorated wigs and colorful attire—gather to perform dances and celebrate their culture. Attending these festivals is an enriching experience, allowing visitors to connect with the vibrant traditions of the highlands and understand the cultural importance of these gatherings.
Other Attractions Worth Checking Out
- Lake Kutubu: Located a few hours’ drive from Mendi, Lake Kutubu is one of Papua New Guinea’s largest freshwater lakes. The lake district is incredibly striking, and you can enjoy activities such as canoeing and swimming. A visit here also offers a chance to explore the cultural diversity of the people who live around the lake, making it an enriching day trip from Mendi. The lake is surrounded by pristine rainforest and is home to many unique fish species, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers.
- Kopiago Village: Take a trip to Kopiago Village to experience the traditions of the Hewa people and see firsthand how they live in harmony with their natural surroundings. The journey to the village itself is an adventure, taking you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Southern Highlands.
- Porgera Gold Mine: For those interested in learning about the economic backbone of the region, a visit to the Porgera Gold Mine offers insight into the mining industry that has played a significant role in shaping the development of the Highlands.
Travel Tips
Mendi is accessible via Mendi Airport, with Air Niugini offering regular flights from Port Moresby. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region. It’s recommended to hire a local guide when visiting villages or exploring natural attractions, as they can provide invaluable insights into local customs and ensure a smooth experience. Always ask for permission before taking photographs, especially in traditional settings, to show respect for the locals’ customs.
Getting There with Air Niugini
Air Niugini provides convenient flights connecting Mendi to Port Moresby, making it easy to explore the heart of the Southern Highlands. Book your flight through the Air Niugini website or reach out to our customer service team for assistance. Let us bring you closer to the wonders of Mendi, where adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes await.
Ready to explore the scenic beauty and cultural treasures of Mendi?
Book your flight with Air Niugini today and immerse yourself in the welcoming communities, majestic mountains, and vibrant traditions of the Southern Highlands. Whether you’re hiking to the summit of Mount Giluwe, experiencing the lively Mendi Cultural Show, or relaxing by the serene Lake Kutubu, Mendi promises an unforgettable adventure. Let Air Niugini be your gateway to discovering the best of Papua New Guinea’s highlands.
