Sepik River Explorer

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Touring the Middle Sepik is one of the most culturally rich and immersive travel experiences in Papua New Guinea. The region centres on the middle stretch of the Sepik River—one of the great river systems of the world—and is known for its traditional villages, intricate wood carving, ancestral spirit houses and unique customs that have been preserved for centuries.

A journey along the Middle Sepik usually involves travel by motorised dugout canoe or longboat. Life along the river is slow, rhythmic and deeply connected to the water, and visitors typically stop at a series of villages, each known for its own artistic style and cultural traditions.

Cultural highlights

• Spirit Houses (Haus Tambaran): These are the ceremonial heart of Sepik villages. They are often elaborately decorated with carvings, masks, spirit figures and woven designs.
• Master Carvers: The Middle Sepik is famous for some of PNG’s finest woodcarving, including masks, ancestor figures, hooks, shields and storyboards. Many travellers purchase carvings directly from the artists.
• Local customs: Traditional beliefs, clan stories and ritual practices still play a central role in everyday life. Some villages may also offer cultural demonstrations or share the meanings behind their carvings and traditions.