8-Day Tour of Rabaul & Port Moresby

Day 1 – Arrive in Papua New Guinea: Upon your arrival at Jackson’s International Airport in Port Moresby, a dedicated Pepeta tour staff member will extend a warm welcome. They will provide attentive assistance with your luggage and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel, the Holiday Inn Express. You can choose to enjoy dinner either at the hotel or along the scenic Port Moresby harborside.

Day 2 – Domestic flight to Rabaul: Upon your arrival at Jackson’s International Airport in Port Moresby, a dedicated Pepeta tour staff member will extend a warm welcome. They will provide attentive assistance with your luggage and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel, the Holiday Inn Express. You can choose to enjoy dinner either at the hotel or along the scenic Port Moresby harborside.

Day 3 – Water activities/Tolai Culture Tour: Prepare for an unforgettable aquatic adventure that includes Papua New Guinea snorkeling and swimming with dolphins, as well as exploring the remnants of a WWII Japanese Zero fighter. As you go on this journey, you’ll set out on a brief boat ride to a location where these playful dolphins gather daily. Accompanied by our friendly guides, you’ll put on your snorkeling gear and, while securely tethered to the boat, have the remarkable opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures swimming alongside you in a playful display of natural wonder.

After your dolphin encounter, the adventure continues as you are taken to a shallow water site where a Japanese Zero fighter plane, a relic from World War II, was downed. Here, you can submerge into the crystal-clear waters and explore the remains of this historic aircraft beneath the surface.

In the afternoon, you’ll have you will visit a local Tolai village to experience Tolai culture. You will be treated to a private culture show where you will easily interact with the locals. Experience and learn about Tolai shell money and its importance to the Tolai society, witness aigir cooking (hot stone cooking) and try the local food.

Day 4 – Mask Day Festival 1: Get ready for a day like no other as we join the Mask Festival on its inaugural day, guided by our knowledgeable Pepeta PNG tour guide. The festival’s dawn spectacle, ‘Kinavai,’ features the majestic arrival of the Tolai Tubuans and commences around 5:30am at the beautiful Kokopo Beach venue. After this mesmerizing experience, you will return to your resort for a well-deserved breakfast before going on your journey to the heart of the Mask Festival.

Accompanied by our dedicated Pepeta tour guide, you’ll explore the festival grounds, gaining insights into diverse sing-sings and traditional costumes, which is an excellent opportunity for capturing memorable photographs. Later, you’ll convene for a communal lunch at the nearby hotel. Upon your return to the resort, take some time to refresh before indulging in the evening’s cultural spectacle, the Baining Fire Dance. This extraordinary event showcases young men performing dances amid blazing fires, all set to the evocative chanting of their elders.

* Please note that the availability of this experience may vary, and your tour guide will provide guidance accordingly.

Day 5 – Mask Festival Day 2: Keep your adventure alive as we proceed to the second day of the Mask Festival, guided by one of our experienced tour leaders. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness a range of cultures, engaging sing-sings, and dances not only from the local area but also representing different corners of Papua New Guinea!

As the day unfolds, enjoy a delicious lunch and in the evening, we’ll retreat to the Rapopo Plantation Resort for dinner, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and gastronomic delight amid the festival’s vibrant ambiance.

Day 6 – Mask Festival Day 3: On the third and final day of the Mask Festival, you can anticipate an enriching encounter enhanced by your experienced tour guide’s knowledge. Explore deeper into the mosaic of cultures, witnessing sing-sings and dances that showcase not only the local community but also a diverse array of regions across Papua New Guinea.

At midday, treat yourself to lunch and as the day draws to a close, we’ll sit down for an exceptional dinner at the resort as we reflect on a day brimming with cultural immersion and festive celebrations.

Day 7 – Full-day tour of Rabaul and Kokopo Region: Get ready to go on a full-day group tour led by one of our experienced local guides. This land excursion will bring you into the history that has shaped present-day East New Britain. You’ll explore the region in air-conditioned comfort, beginning with a visit to the old Rabaul town, where you’ll learn more about World War II history and the profound impact of the devastating 1994 volcanic eruptions. From there, your journey takes you to Kokopo, the new town, where you’ll encounter what is often regarded as the finest market in all of Papua New Guinea and explore the WWII museum.

A tour highlight awaits as you go on a 45-minute hike to the summit of Mount Tavurvur, Rabaul’s most active volcano. At the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views, including the picturesque Rabaul township, the tranquil Simpson Harbour, the idyllic Matupit Island, and an awe-inspiring view of the Tavurvur volcano’s majestic crater. The day’s itinerary also includes a well-timed lunch stop, ensuring you’re energized for the adventures that await. Finally, you’ll return to your resort, allowing you ample time to refresh before an evening of dining and relaxation.

Day 8 – Flight to Port Moresby & depart for home: All good things must come to an end as you wave goodbye to PNG! On your final day you’ll catch an early morning flight to Port Moresby, where you’ll connect with your international flight homeward. Upon your arrival at Jackson’s International Airport, one of our Pepeta PNG staff will be on hand to extend a warm welcome, ensuring a hassle-free transition to your international departure.

If your schedule allows, you’ll be able to indulge in a delicious breakfast or lunch at a charming nearby café before your flight back home. This thoughtful touch offers you a moment of relaxation and a final taste of the local culinary delights before bidding farewell to Papua New Guinea.