Highland Papua is a province of Indonesia, in the far east of the country on the island of New Guinea. It is described as the country's most remote province, and that remoteness shapes what a visit is like. This is a destination for travellers who want wild country and time spent away from the usual routes.
The landscape
The province is known for its snow-capped peaks rising above tropical lowlands, a rare combination in Southeast Asia. Around them lie pristine rainforests, glacial lakes and cloud forests, where mist often sits among the trees. The region is also described as one of the world's most biodiverse areas, so the walk from one ecosystem to the next can bring very different plants and animals within a few days.
What a visit offers
- Trekking through high-altitude and forest terrain
- Wildlife observation in some of the most varied ecosystems on Earth
- Cultural immersion with indigenous communities who keep ancient traditions alive
The indigenous communities are the heart of the cultural side of a trip. Visitors who approach them with patience and respect can learn about the traditions that have shaped life in these highlands for generations.
Is it for you?
Highland Papua suits experienced, self-reliant travellers who value adventure and are comfortable with remote conditions. Because of its isolation, planning ahead is wise, and a trip here is less about ticking off sights than about the landscape, the wildlife and the people you meet along the way.
