Mendi - Discovering Papua New Guinea

Travelling to Mendi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mendi, 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 Mendi 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 Mendi, 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 Mendi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mendi

Mendi is a town in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. It is located in the central part of the province, with a population of around 26,000 people. The town is situated at an altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush forests and scenic mountains. Mendi is a major commercial hub of the province, offering a range of services, including transport, accommodation, and shopping. The town is also known for its vibrant culture and traditional festivals, which showcase the unique customs and traditions of the local tribes.

What to visit in Mendi

Mendi is a beautiful city located in the Southern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mendi: 1. Lake Kutubu - This is a stunning lake located about 50 km from Mendi. It is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and is home to several species of bird and fish. It is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
2. Mount Giluwe - This is the second highest peak in Papua New Guinea standing at over 4300 meters. It is a challenging but rewarding climb, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Tari Basin - This area is known for its unique and vibrant culture, particularly the Huli wigmen who sport elaborate wigs made of human hair. Visitors can witness traditional dances and ceremonies and learn about the customs and beliefs of the local people.
4. Lake Kopiago - This is another picturesque lake located about an hour's drive from Mendi. It is a popular camping and picnicking spot, with forested areas and hiking trails.
5. Marawaka Falls - This waterfall is a natural wonder located in the mountains near Mendi. Visitors can swim in the crystal clear pool at the base of the falls and enjoy the lush scenery.
6. Huli Culture show - This is a cultural performance held in Tari that showcases the traditional dances, songs, and costumes of the Huli people.
7. Sing-sing - This is a cultural festival held in Mendi where various tribes come together to showcase their unique traditions and customs. It is a colorful and vibrant event.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Mendi. Visitors to this beautiful region are sure to be enchanted by the natural beauty and fascinating culture of the area.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mendi.

When to go on holiday to Mendi

The best time to visit Mendi in Papua New Guinea is between May and October. During these months, the weather is usually dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the scenic beauties of the region. However, it is important to note that temperatures can drop quite low during the nights, so it is necessary to pack warm clothing. The rainy season usually lasts from November to April, and it can hinder access to some areas due to flooded roads.

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

How to get to Mendi

Mendi, the provincial capital of the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, can be reached by air and road. Here are the ways to get to Mendi: 1. By Air: The closest airport to Mendi is Mendi Airport (MDU). It is served by Air Niugini, which operates flights to and from Port Moresby. The flight takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
2. By Road: Mendi is connected to several major cities and towns in Papua New Guinea by road. However, the roads are often unpaved and can be challenging to navigate. The main highway that connects Mendi to other parts of the country is the Highlands Highway, which runs from Lae in Morobe Province to Tari in Hela Province.
If you want to travel to Mendi by road, you can take a public bus or hire a private vehicle. It is advisable to check the road conditions and weather forecast before embarking on a road trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mendi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mendi

Mendi, located in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, is known for its unique and diverse cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Mendi with a short description for each of them: 1. Kai Kai - Kai Kai is the local term for food in Mendi, and typically refers to a meal consisting of a starch (such as taro or sweet potato) and some form of protein (fish, chicken, or pork). Vegetables and fruits may also be included.
2. Mumu - A traditional way of cooking food in Mendi is by using a Mumu. This involves building a fire pit and placing stones over the fire. The stones are then covered with banana leaves, and food (usually meat and vegetables) is placed over the leaves and covered with more banana leaves. The food is left to cook slowly in the heat and smoke for several hours, giving it a unique flavor.
3. Paua - Paua is a type of shellfish that is commonly found in the coastal areas of Mendi. It is typically served cooked in a garlic butter sauce or fried and served with lemon wedges.
4. Kau Kau - Kau Kau is the local term for sweet potato, which is a staple food in Mendi. Sweet potato is often boiled, mashed, or baked and served alongside various meats and vegetables.
5. Sago - Sago is a starchy substance extracted from the sago palm tree. It is a staple food in many parts of Papua New Guinea, including Mendi. Sago is typically made into a pudding or porridge and served with a variety of toppings, such as coconut milk or sugar.
6. Roasted Pork - Roasted pork is a popular dish in Mendi. The pork is often marinated in a mixture of spices and herbs, then slow-roasted over an open fire until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and flavorful.
7. Bilum Bread - Bilum is a traditional woven bag used by women to carry goods and food. Bilum bread is a type of flatbread made from wheat flour and cooked over an open flame. It is named after the bilum because it is often cooked on top of the woven bag.
8. Pangi - Pangi is a type of spicy relish made from chili peppers, onions, and vinegar. It is typically served as a condiment with various dishes and adds a bold, spicy flavor to the food.
You can find general info about typical foods in Papua New Guinea here.

Is Mendi an expensive destination for tourists?

Mendi, Papua New Guinea can be considered an expensive destination for tourists due to several factors such as limited infrastructure, a lack of affordable accommodation options, and high transportation costs. Additionally, imported goods and services can also be quite costly due to the island's remote location. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a memorable trip to Mendi without breaking the bank. It is advisable to book accommodation and transportation in advance and choose local eateries and markets for food and souvenirs to save on expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Mendi

Mendi is the capital of the Southern Highlands Province in Papua New Guinea. The town itself has limited accommodation options, but there are a few guesthouses, lodges, and hotels available. However, most visitors prefer to stay in nearby towns such as Tari or Mount Hagen, which offer better accommodation options and easier access to Mendi. Mount Hagen is a larger town with various hotel options ranging from budget to luxury, and it's located approximately 2 hours away from Mendi by car. Tari, on the other hand, is a smaller town located about an hour away from Mendi, with a few basic guesthouses and lodges that cater to tourists visiting the region.
You can check hotel prices at Mendi here:
Booking.com

Is Mendi a safe destination for tourists?

Mendi, Papua New Guinea is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to remain cautious as crime rates are relatively high in the country. Visitors should exercise caution and take basic safety measures such as avoiding walking alone at night, avoiding wearing expensive jewelry, and being aware of their surroundings. It's recommended that tourists stay in reputable accommodations and arrange transportation through trusted sources. It's important to note that certain areas in Papua New Guinea may be more prone to crime than others, so it's always a good idea to research your destination before travelling.
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 Mendi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mendi the most?

Mendi in Papua New Guinea provides a unique and authentic cultural experience for visitors. The town is primarily focused on agriculture, which provides a great opportunity to explore and learn more about rural life in Papua New Guinea.
While Mendi can be a great experience for travelers of all ages and backgrounds, I would say that it is best suited for adventurous travelers who are interested in experiencing different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Families with older kids or teens could also enjoy visiting this area and learning about the local culture together.
However, the nightlife and party scene is not the main attraction in Mendi, so young people looking for that type of experience may not find what they are looking for here. Couples seeking a romantic getaway may also prefer a more relaxing and luxurious destination.

How to get around Mendi

In Mendi, some common forms of transportation include walking, public buses, private taxis, and private vehicles. However, most of the roads in Mendi are unpaved, so it is recommended to use four-wheel drive vehicles. It is also important to note that some areas in Mendi may not have well-established transportation infrastructure.

What to see around Mendi

Certainly, here are some nice places you might want to consider visiting in a day trip from Mendi, Papua New Guinea: 1. Lake Kutubu - This stunning lake is located 2 hours’ drive from Mendi town and is known for its clear blue waters, breathtaking scenery and abundant birdlife. 2. Mount Bosavi - This is an extinct volcano that offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and savannah. It is located about 3-4 hours’ drive from Mendi. 3. Wabag Town - This is a bustling town located about 1 hour from Mendi, with a lively market, local shops, hotels, and restaurants. 4. Porgera - This is a popular mining town located about 2 hours’ drive from Mendi, known for its gold mining activities and beautiful mountain views. 5. Kudjip - This is a small town about 2 hours’ drive from Mendi, home to the Kudjip Hospital and some nice hiking trails. Please note that road conditions in Papua New Guinea may vary, always plan your trip well in advance and consult with local travel experts for the latest updates.
For every travel information about Papua New Guinea you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.