Do I need a visa for Southern Highlands?

Yes, you need a visa for Papua New Guinea. Tourist visas must be obtained in advance from a PNG embassy or consulate. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.

Is it safe to travel independently in Southern Highlands?

No, independent travel is not recommended. The region's remoteness, security concerns, and difficult logistics make it essential to travel with a reputable tour operator or a trusted local guide.

What is the main airport?

Mendi Airport (MDU) is the main airstrip, served by small aircraft from Port Moresby and other highland centers. Flights are weather-dependent and can be cancelled frequently.

Can I use credit cards?

No. Southern Highlands operates almost entirely on cash (Papua New Guinea Kina). There are very few ATMs, and those in Mendi are unreliable. Bring sufficient cash in small denominations from a major city like Port Moresby.

Pack for rugged conditions: sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, warm layers for cool highland nights, a sleeping bag if staying in villages, a comprehensive first-aid kit, water purification tablets, a headlamp, and a power bank for charging electronics as electricity is unreliable.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa. Apply online or on arrival at Port Moresby airport.

What currency is used?

Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK). Cash is essential; ATMs are scarce in the highlands.

Is English widely spoken?

English is official but Tok Pisin is more common. Basic Tok Pisin phrases are helpful.

Very few in the highlands; bring enough cash from Port Moresby.

Can I drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or purified water only.

What vaccinations do I need?

Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, and consider yellow fever if coming from an endemic area.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Not recommended; join a guided tour or hire a local guide for safety and cultural insight.

What is the internet like?

Limited and slow; mobile data is available in towns but unreliable in remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Roaming is expensive; buy a local SIM from Digicel or Bmobile for better rates.

Southern Highlands - Travel destination image

Southern Highlands

ProvincePapua New Guinea, Oceania

Southern Highlands is a STATE in Papua New Guinea, Oceania.

Southern Highlands Province in Papua New Guinea offers an authentic, rugged adventure for intrepid travelers seeking untouched landscapes and vibrant cultural encounters. This remote highland region is renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery, including the towering limestone peaks of the Muller Range and the lush, fertile valleys carved by the Tua River. Cultural immersion is unparalleled here, with traditional 'sing-sing' festivals featuring elaborate body paint, feathered headdresses, and rhythmic drumming providing unforgettable glimpses into the lives of the Huli, Duna, and other indigenous groups. Key destinations include the provincial capital Mendi, set in a picturesque valley, and the Lake Kutubu area—PNG's first internationally significant wetland, home to unique fish species and traditional canoe-building communities. The region's challenging terrain means few tourists venture here, offering a rare opportunity to experience Papua New Guinea's raw beauty and enduring traditions far from the beaten path. Travelers can explore coffee plantations, hike to remote waterfalls, and witness the famous Huli Wigmen, whose elaborate hairpieces are central to their identity. Southern Highlands is not a destination for luxury seekers, but for those willing to embrace adventure, it delivers profound cultural connections and breathtaking natural wonders.

Best time to visit Southern Highlands

May to October during the dry season. This period offers more stable weather with less rainfall, making road travel and trekking more feasible. The drier conditions also reduce mosquito activity. Many cultural festivals and sing-sings are scheduled during these months. Avoid the wet season (November to April) when heavy rains cause severe road disruptions, landslides, and increased malaria risk.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Dry 18-26°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Mid

End of dry season, still good

Know before you go

Getting there

MDU

Mendi Airport

Domestic

0 km away

TIZ

Tari Airport

Domestic

0 km away

HGU

Mount Hagen Airport

Domestic

100 km away

Getting around

"Transport is challenging. The Highlands Highway connects Mendi to other regions but is often in poor condition with frequent closures. Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs—converted trucks or buses) are the main public transport but are crowded and unreliable. Chartered flights via Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) or other small airlines are essential for reaching remote areas and are often the safest option. There are no formal taxi services in Mendi; transport is arranged through hotels or local contacts. Car rental is not recommended for visitors due to road conditions and security concerns. Travel is best arranged through a reputable tour operator with local guides and 4WD vehicles."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited to lodges in towns

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Port Moresby airport from $5

Calling code

+675

Stay safe

Overall

5/10

Tribal conflicts and road conditions pose risks; travel with experienced guides.

Night safety

3/10

Tribal conflicts and road conditions pose risks; travel with experienced guides.

Transport

4/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Southern Highlands has experienced periods of tribal conflict and civil unrest. Security can be volatile, especially in rural areas outside Mendi. Travel is not recommended without a local guide or organized tour. Avoid travel after dark and stay informed about current local tensions. Road travel is hazardous due to poor road conditions, landslides, and occasional roadblocks. Petty crime exists in Mendi; keep valuables secure and avoid displaying wealth. Due to the region's remoteness, communication networks are unreliable. Register your travel plans with your embassy and maintain regular contact. Always seek local advice about areas to avoid, as situations can change rapidly."

Police

112

Ambulance

111

Fire

110

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Southern Highlands are extremely limited. Mendi Hospital provides basic services but is often under-resourced; serious conditions require medical evacuation to Port Moresby or Australia. Malaria is prevalent throughout the province—prophylaxis is essential, along with mosquito nets and repellent. Typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus vaccinations are strongly recommended. Travelers should carry a comprehensive medical kit including antibiotics, antiseptics, and medications for common ailments. Waterborne diseases are common; drink only bottled, boiled, or thoroughly purified water. Altitude sickness can affect travelers in highland areas. Ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance that covers emergency evacuation."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for traditional customs is paramount. Always seek permission before taking photographs of people or ceremonies—a small payment (usually cash) is often expected. Dress modestly, especially in villages. When visiting communities, it is customary to bring a small gift (like store-bought food or betel nut) for the local leader. The exchange of gifts is an important part of social interaction. Tipping is not a common practice. Avoid public displays of affection. Be aware that tribal affiliations and land ownership are deeply important; never trespass on land without permission. Betel nut chewing is widespread; the red-stained spit is a common sight."

Tok PisinHuliDunaEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK) · K

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | local meal at a market or small restaurant

Hotels

$40-80 | basic guesthouse or lodge

Local transport

$1-2 | local PMV ride

Cost notes

Guided tours and flights significantly increase costs.

Timezone

Pacific/Port_Moresby +10:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

510,000

Area

15,800 km²

Government

Provincial Government with a Governor and Local-Level Governments

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Південний Гайлендс, Provinco Sudaj Altaj Teroj, Südliche Hochlandprovinz, Southern Highlands, Саутерн-Хайлендс, Hautes-Terres méridionales, 南部山岳州, Südliches Hochland, Южное Высокогорье, Pietų Aukštumų provincija, Southern Highlands Province, PG-SHM, MDU, Mendi, mendi, menidi, mndy, myndy, mynڈy, Менди, مندي, مندی, ميندي, مینڈی, मेंडी, মেন্ডি, ਮੇਂਡੀ, ሜንዲ, メンディ

Capital CityMajor HubHikingCulturalAdventureRemoteTribalMountainsFestivalsOff the Beaten Path