Kainantu - Discovering Papua New Guinea

Travelling to Kainantu

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kainantu, a pretty good destination in Papua New Guinea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kainantu and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kainantu, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Papua New Guinea, here's everything to know about Kainantu for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kainantu

Kainantu is a town in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. It is located in the central highlands of the country, at an altitude of around 1,400 meters above sea level. The town has a population of around 20,000 people and is known for its coffee production, with many smallholder farmers growing Arabica beans in the surrounding highlands. Kainantu is also home to the Kainantu Cultural Centre, which showcases the traditional customs and cultural practices of the local people. The town is accessible by road, with a daily bus service connecting it to the provincial capital of Goroka.

What to visit in Kainantu

Sure, following are some of the popular tourist attractions to visit when in Kainantu, Papua New Guinea: 1. Mount Wilhelm: Located in the Western Highlands Province, Mount Wilhelm is the highest mountain in Papua New Guinea. The peak stands at an elevation of 4,509 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts.
2. Chimbu Provincial Show: This annual cultural festival is held in the town of Kundiawa in the Chimbu Province. The festival showcases the unique traditions and customs of the Chimbu people, including sing-sings, feasts, and traditional dances.
3. Kabwum Cultural Festival: Held in the Kabwum District of the Morobe Province, this festival celebrates the cultural heritage of the local tribes through traditional dances, songs, and rituals.
4. Lake Kutubu: Located in the Southern Highlands Province, Lake Kutubu is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests. It is home to various species of fish and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
5. Kabiufa Cultural Centre: Located in the Eastern Highlands Province, the Kabiufa Cultural Centre showcases the rich cultural heritage of the local Kabiufa tribe through exhibitions of traditional art, crafts, and artifacts.
6. Goroka Show: This annual cultural festival is held in the town of Goroka in the Eastern Highlands Province. The festival features colorful performances, dances, and music showcasing the unique traditions of the local communities.
7. Sepik River: Running through the Sepik Province, the Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea. It is a popular destination for river cruises, offering visitors a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
8. Tufi Dive Resort: Located in the Oro Province, Tufi Dive Resort is a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. The resort offers various packages for diving expeditions to explore the rich marine biodiversity of the region.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Kainantu has to offer. Visitors to the region can experience the unique cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea and explore its beautiful landscapes.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Papua New Guinea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kainantu

The best time to visit Kainantu in Papua New Guinea is during the dry season, which is from June to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The wet season, which is from December to March, can bring heavy rainfall and frequent storms, making travel difficult and sometimes dangerous. However, it's worth noting that Kainantu's climate is generally mild and can experience rainfall throughout the year.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kainantu

There are a few ways to get to Kainantu in Papua New Guinea, depending on your starting location. Here are some general guidelines: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kainantu is Goroka Airport, which receives regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. From Goroka, you can take a taxi or bus to Kainantu, which is located about 30km away.
2. By Road: If you are already in Papua New Guinea and prefer to travel by road, Kainantu can be reached by driving along the Highlands Highway. This route passes through several towns and villages and can be quite scenic, but it is also known for its narrow and winding roads.
3. By Public Transport: If you want to travel like a local, you can take a bus or minibus (known as PMVs) from Goroka to Kainantu. These are the most common forms of transportation in Papua New Guinea and can be quite crowded and uncomfortable, but they are also the most affordable way to travel.
It's important to note that Papua New Guinea can be a challenging destination to travel to, with limited infrastructure and services in some areas. It's recommended to do thorough research and plan ahead, and to consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour group for added safety and convenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kainantu, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kainantu

Kainantu, a town in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, has a variety of delicious foods. Here are some typical foods of Kainantu with a short description for each of them: 1. Sweet potato - a starchy root vegetable that is a staple food in Kainantu. It is often boiled, baked, or roasted and served as a side dish or mashed into a pudding.
2. Kaukau - another variety of sweet potato that is larger and sweeter than the regular sweet potato and is often roasted or boiled.
3. Saksak - a traditional pudding made from grated sago palm and served with coconut milk.
4. Mumu - a traditional meal cooked in an underground oven. It typically consists of roasted sweet potatoes, taro, pork, and other vegetables.
5. Kumala - a type of yam that is often boiled, mashed, or roasted and served as a side dish.
6. Taro - a root vegetable that is boiled, mashed, or fried and is often served as a side dish.
7. Roast pork - a popular meat dish in Kainantu that is often seasoned with local spices and cooked over an open flame.
8. Grilled fish - a dish made with fresh fish cooked over a fire or on a grill and served with lemon or lime juice.
9. Laplap - a dish made from grated taro or yam, mixed with coconut milk, and wrapped in banana leaves before being steamed.
10. Coconut cream - used to flavor many dishes, coconut cream is made by grating coconut flesh and adding water before squeezing the milk out of the mixture.
You can find general info about typical foods in Papua New Guinea here.

Is Kainantu an expensive destination for tourists?

Kainantu, being a small town in Papua New Guinea, may not have a lot of tourist infrastructure. However, in general, Papua New Guinea can be an expensive destination for travelers due to its remote location and limited tourist infrastructure. Accommodation, transportation, and food costs may be higher compared to other popular destinations. Additionally, expenses such as obtaining visas and permits for certain areas or cultural events may add to the overall cost of a trip to Papua New Guinea. It is recommended to do thorough research and budget accordingly before planning a trip to Kainantu or Papua New Guinea.

Where to find accomodation in Kainantu

Kainantu is a small town located in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. The best areas to find accommodation would be in or near the town center, where you can find hotels, lodges, guest houses, and bed and breakfasts. Some areas to consider are Kefamo, Kaupena, Kainantu proper, and Kumbareta. These areas offer convenient access to local amenities, restaurants, and attractions, as well as transportation options for exploring the surrounding areas.
You can check hotel prices at Kainantu here:
Booking.com

Is Kainantu a safe destination for tourists?

Kainantu is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists, although it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling in any new destination. As with any location, it is advisable to take certain precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being cautious when using public transport. Additionally, it is recommended to check with your country's travel advisory for any specific safety concerns or restrictions before planning your trip to Papua New Guinea.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Papua New Guinea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kainantu.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kainantu the most?

Kainantu, located in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea is a destination that is ideal for adventurous travelers who are interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the highlands. The destination offers various opportunities to experience the traditional village life, learn about the unique customs, and participate in popular local festivals. While Kainantu can be enjoyed by all travelers, it may not be the ideal destination for couples, as it does not offer the same level of relaxation and romance as other destinations do. However, it is a great destination for young people who are interested in immersing themselves in the local culture, trekking, and exploring; it is also a suitable destination for families who are looking for an educational and cultural experience for their kids.

How to get around Kainantu

In Kainantu, the most common mode of transportation is via PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles). These are small buses or vans that run along designated routes and can be flagged down from the side of the road. Taxis and rental cars are also available, but they can be more expensive. Additionally, if you're up for some adventure, you can hire a 4x4 vehicle and explore the rural areas surrounding Kainantu.

What to see around Kainantu

Sure, here are some options for day trips from Kainantu in Papua New Guinea: 1. Mount Wilhelm: It is the highest mountain in PNG and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and lakes.
2. Goroka: It is a vibrant town, bursting with local markets and cultural activities. The Goroka Cultural Show, held in September each year, is a must-see event.
3. Asaro Mudmen Village: It is a traditional village that is famous for its mud-covered masked warriors, who perform tribal dances and rituals.
4. Wahgi Valley: A scenic valley that is dotted with coffee plantations and traditional villages, offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Kainantu.
5. Chimbu Province: Located north of Kainantu, Chimbu is home to stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, hiking trails, and traditional villages.
6. Eastern Highlands Agricultural Show: Held annually in August in Goroka, this show features an array of agricultural displays, including livestock competitions, flower shows, and coffee tastings.
I hope these suggestions help you plan your day trip from Kainantu!
For every travel information about Papua New Guinea you can click here.

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