PNG - Tribal culture - face paint and masks

We all remember our first kiss, our first trip on a plane, our first day at work; life can be quite an adventure. In 2012, Adventure World and First Footprints are encouraging Aussie travellers to take their first adventure to one of the world’s most spectacular but untouched destinations, known for its kind people, rich heritage and of course, adventure; Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Easily identified as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world - with over 600 islands, 850 indigenous languages and at least as many traditional societies, Papua New Guinea is perfect for Aussie travellers wishing to visit our island neighbour in search of true and authentic experiences. 

“Papua New Guinea is a challenging but hugely rewarding adventure. It’s an untouched region rich in biodiversity, magnificent natural beauty and a myriad of complex cultures,” said Diane Moynihan, Head of Product, Adventure World.

“Wherever, whenever and whatever you choose to do in PNG, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience,” said Ms Moynihan.

Adventure World’s top three ‘firsts’ for Australian travellers to try in PNG:

• National Mask Festival

The Mask Festival is one of Papua New Guinea’s best known cultural celebrations. Held from 18-22 July, it helps to preserve the rich mask culture of Papua New Guinea in living form. This fascinating aspect of culture is celebrated in Rabaul, and showcased by local dancers from all over the country.

• Diving

The coast of PNG is considered one of the most spectacular diving destinations in the world. Experts have described the oceans surrounding the nation as having up to twice as many marine species as the waters of the Red Sea and up to five times as many as the Caribbean – a brilliant opportunity to see your first dugong or sea turtle found in the region.

The underwater adventure will see travellers enjoying a huge diversity of sites, from barrier reefs and coral atolls to a vast collection of World War II wreck diving sites with ships, aircrafts and submarines.

• Cultural Tours

Village Tours are one of the best ways to get a first-hand experience of the authentic PNG lifestyle - from the highlands all the way to the coastal villages.  Recommended firsts include trying your hand at traditional bilum (basket) making in Madang, witnessing the traditional bride price ceremonies in East New Britain, meeting traditional shell money (MIE) makers in New Ireland, joining a yam harvest in Milne Bay, discovering the sacred, and quite scary art of scarification for manhood in Sepik province and ceremonial dancing in the Highlands region.

Adventure World is offering a five night PNG experience from their First Footprints collection, with savings up to $100 per person.

**Papua New Guinea Traditional Culture Tour**
11 days / 10 nights from $8,129pp* - including return flights

Save $100 per person by booking before 28 February 2012 on a 10 night cultural tour of Papua New Guinea from the highlands to the sea from only $8,129 per person, including return economy flights.

Package includes 10 nights accommodation, return economy flights with Air Nuigini, all pre payable airport taxes, all domestic flights in Papua New Guinea, all airport/hotel transfers and services from a tour escort.

Receive free, almost daily guided tours featuring nature walks, snorkelling, village tours, river boat cruises and bird watching.

Accommodation includes one night at Gateway Hotel, Port Moresby; two nights in Tari at Ambua Lodge; two nights in the East Sepik Provence at the Karawari Lodge; three nights in Mt Hagan at Rondon Ridge; and two nights in Madang at Malolo Plantation Lodge.

Call 1300 320 795 or visit www.adventureworld.com.au for more First Footprints special deals.

*Terms and conditions apply: Valid for sale until 28 February 2012. Valid for travel until 31 March 2013. Package price is ex Brisbane. Contact Adventure World for best available domestic airfares.