A Taste of PNG 1 – Birds of Paradise

This short yet rewarding 7-day birding adventure introduces you to two of Papua New Guinea’s most accessible and exciting birding destinations: Varirata National Park, perched on the Sogeri Plateau above Port Moresby, and the legendary Kumul Lodge near Mt Hagen. Remarkably, all of Papua New Guinea’s endemic bird families can be encountered on this itinerary, making it an ideal introduction to the region’s extraordinary avifauna.

Our primary goal is to observe as many species as possible of the dazzling Birds of Paradise. Along the way, we’ll also search for a wealth of other New Guinea specialities—from vibrant parrots and striking pigeons to colourful kingfishers that enliven the forest. Photographers will find exceptional opportunities throughout the tour, particularly at Kumul Lodge, where Birds of Paradise frequently visit the lodge feeders, and at the PAU ponds in Port Moresby, a dependable hotspot for close-range views of a diverse array of waterbirds.

Every tour is run in collaboration with Sicklebill Safaris, our trusted partners in delivering world-class birding across Papua New Guinea. For more information about this tour, please contact Sue, Phil or Rowan at info@s2travel.com.au

Species that you would expect to see:

Raggiana Bird-of-Paradise – PNG’s national bird, renowned for its spectacular red plumes and elaborate courtship displays.
Brown Sicklebill – A striking highland bird-of-paradise with its long downcurved bill and loud, machine-gun-like calls.
Ribbon-tailed Astrapia – Famous for the male’s extraordinary tail feathers, up to three times its body length.
Blue Bird-of-Paradise – One of the most elegant and sought-after birds, with vivid blue plumage and delicate long tail wires.
Superb Bird-of-Paradise – Known for its remarkable “smiley face” courtship dance that captivates birders and photographers alike.
Barred Owlet-nightjar – A cryptic nocturnal species, often roosting in tree cavities and blending perfectly with the bark thanks to its mottled plumage.
Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfisher – A colourful and elusive kingfisher of New Guinea’s forests, recognised by its rich brown head and striking blue wings.

Lesser Bird-of-Paradise – A dazzling species with golden flank plumes and long tail wires, often seen displaying in leks.
King-of-Saxony Bird-of-Paradise – Instantly recognisable for the male’s extraordinary head plumes that can be extended and waved during courtship.
Archbold’s Bowerbird – Famous for its elaborate bowers, decorated with colourful objects to attract mates.
Brehm’s Tiger Parrot – A beautifully patterned parrot found in the highlands, with striking barred plumage.
Smoky Honeyeater – A unique honeyeater with bare facial skin that changes colour when excited.
Yellow-billed Kingfisher – A small but vibrant forest kingfisher, easily identified by its bright yellow bill and distinctive call echoing through the canopy.