Things To Do
in Mendi
Mendi sits high in the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea, set on a cool, rugged plateau encompassed by cloud forests and terraced fields. The town acts as a gateway to highland culture and dramatic landscapes, offering a cooler climate than the coast and an agricultural economy. The area is home to Melpa-speaking communities with strong weaving, music, and village traditions that endure amid changing times.
Access is via challenging roads or domestic flights to reach the surrounding highland towns, revealing a landscape of steep ridges and vibrant markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Mendi Town by visiting the local markets, where you can experience the vibrant culture and interact with the friendly people. Sample traditional foods and shop for unique handicrafts showcasing the rich heritage of the Highlands. Enjoy a refreshing cup of locally grown coffee, celebrating Papua New Guinea's renowned coffee-producing regions.
Visit the Mendi Cultural Centre to learn about the diverse tribes that inhabit the region, their customs, and their art. Engage in a guided tour focusing on the history and significance of traditional practices and ceremonies in the area. Capture the colorful displays of tribal attire and artistry through photographs.
As dusk falls, head to a local eatery for an authentic Highlands dining experience featuring dishes such as mumu – a traditional feast cooked in an underground oven. Savor the flavors of local ingredients while mingling with residents and fellow travelers. End your night with a stroll through the town, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere.
Set out early for a trek to Mount Ambua, renowned for its breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna. The trek offers an opportunity to witness the stunning birdlife, including the famous Bird of Paradise, known to inhabit this mountainous area. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding forests as you make your ascent.
Reach the summit and enjoy a packed lunch amidst the panoramic views of the Highlands, taking time to absorb the serene landscape. Engage with your hiking companions to share experiences and insights about the region’s ecological significance. As you descend, look out for unique plants that flourish in this rich ecosystem.
Return to base and savor a warm dinner at a local lodge, reflecting on the day’s achievements and experiences. Join in a storytelling session around the fire, where local elders share myths and legends of the land. Allow the night skies to enchant you with their brilliance, as you connect with the tranquility of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🥤Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚗Local transport ride | $5-10 |
| 🏥Basic healthcare visit | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich highland scenery and cultural experiences
- Relatively uncrowded, authentic PNG atmosphere
- Limited high-quality dining and nightlife
- Rough road conditions and limited infrastructure outside town
- "Tok Pisin: Halo" - Hello
- "Tok Pisin: Tenkyu" - Thank you
- "Tok Pisin: Plis" - Please
- "Tok Pisin: WEA maket?" - Where is the market?
- "Tok Pisin: Gut de" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Mendi
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping panorama of the town and surrounding highland valleys, especially photogenic at sunrise.
Bustling morning market with vibrant produce, textiles, and vendors—great for candid portraits.
Fields and processing areas offer textures and patterns ideal for landscape and documentary photography.
Geographic features and tiered farming landscapes that showcase highland agriculture.
Food in Mendi
Mendi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional method of cooking meat and vegetables in an earth oven, common at celebrations and village gatherings.
Must-Try!
A staple everyday dish using local greens and root crops.
A hearty mix of starchy staples served with vegetables or meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, root crops, spices, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders and use a respectful tone; a handshake is common, with eye contact.
Always ask before photographing people or private ceremonies; some communities require permission.
Respect local norms; cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or churches.
Safety
Tipping in Mendi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips to guides, drivers, and staff are common if service is good.
Kina (PGK) is the primary currency. Cash is widely preferred; some lodges may accept credit cards, but ATMs are limited in town. Mobile money and traveller's cheques are not widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool to mild days with clearer skies; best for outdoor treks and viewpoints. Nights can be chilly; bring layers.
Frequent rains and higher humidity; trails can be slippery; expect fog in the mornings and lush green scenery.
Mendi at Night
Hiking in Mendi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic day hike along highland ridges with valley views and photo opportunities.
A moderate trail connecting a local village to a nearby waterfall and swimming hole.
Airports
How to reach Mendi by plane.
Small regional airport serving Mendi and the Southern Highlands; flights connect to larger hubs in the highlands and Port Moresby.
Main international gateway to Papua New Guinea with domestic connections to major towns including Mendi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in the Mendi area with distinct language and cultural practices.
Diverse languages and traditions from neighboring highland districts contribute to the region's cultural richness.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and visiting teams; matches and community games are common in the highlands.
A widely played sport in villages and towns, with local competitions in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mendi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on root crops, greens, legumes, and seasonal vegetables; ask for vegetable stews and avoid meat-based broths; inform cooks in advance.