Dance with the Huli Wigmen

“Wild Papua New Guinea” from Natural Habitat Adventures is one of our recently named 2011 Tours of a Lifetime2011 Tours of a Lifetime2011 Tours of a Lifetime. This trip is an exploratory one, so not even the guides know precisely what you might encounter as you fly, boat, and trek into the country’s rain forest highlands, volcanic coastline, and lush jungles. With a flexible itinerary, Natural Habitat Adventures suggest that participants “expect the unexpected.” The intimate group of 5-14 travelers might be lucky enough to meet Huli “wigmen” dressed in their best: traditional headdresses made from a collection of their own hair, bird feathers, and grasses.  Although the Huli’s everyday dress is more subdued, the ornate and colorful wigs worn during many celebrations and rituals are not. Unlike many indigenous communities, the Huli have been able to maintain their traditional lifestyle despite contact with tourists and outsiders.

Natural Habitat Adventures: “Wild Papua New Guinea,” 12 days; $9,495. Guests stay at intimate eco-lodges in the highlands, jungle, and volcanic coast.

For more Tours of a Lifetime in Oceania, visit us online.

Photo: Bertrand Linet/My Shot