Things To Do
in Tari
Tari lies in the Tari Basin of Papua New Guinea, surrounded by rugged mountains and dense rainforest. It serves as a gateway to the Huli culture and the Karimui Plateau, offering striking viewpoints and dramatic landscapes. The town is known for its markets, crafts, and welcoming communities that keep traditional practices alive.
Travelers should expect basic infrastructure but rich cultural exchanges, memorable hospitality, and authentic highland scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by visiting the Tari Cultural Center, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and history of the Huli tribe. Expert guides will provide insight into their unique customs and art forms. Enjoy a traditional morning tea prepared by local villagers as you take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
After lunch, trek through the surrounding rainforests to witness the diverse flora and fauna unique to Papua New Guinea. Keep an eye out for the iconic Bird of Paradise, as well as other stunning wildlife. The physical challenge of the trek is rewarded with breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of the region's ecology.
As the sun sets, gather around a traditional fire for storytelling and dancing with the locals. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the culture in a profound way. Enjoy a feast of local delicacies under the stars, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Start your day with a visit to a traditional Huli Wigmen village, where you'll witness the stunning ornate wigs made of human hair and vibrant feathers. Engage with the Huli people as they demonstrate their cultural rituals and traditional dress. The colorful atmosphere is enhanced by the enthusiastic spirits of the villagers who are eager to share their heritage.
Join the Huli Wigmen in their daily activities, such as gardening or hunting, and understand the significance of these practices in their lifestyle. Share stories and experiences over a shared meal, fostering a connection between cultures. This hands-on experience provides a richer context to the Huli way of life.
Conclude the day with a performance of traditional music and dance, where the vibrant sounds and movements tell stories of their ancestors and beliefs. The intimate setting allows for personal interactions that deepen your appreciation for their art. Reflect on your day as you enjoy a light dinner with your hosts, filled with laughter and camaraderie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚕Local transport per ride | $1-4 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse per night | $20-40 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🪙Market souvenirs | $2-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Huli culture and welcoming communities
- Stunning mountain and plateau scenery with few crowds
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility
- Remoteness means fewer services and longer travel times
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Plis" - Please
- "Tenkyu tru" - Thank you very much
- "Mi laik kisim kain bilong mi" - I would like to buy this
- "Wai maket i stap?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Tari
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping panorama of the Tari Basin with emerald fields and cloud-swept ridges.
Colorful stalls, steam, and locals starting the day provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Traditional huts and beadwork with a distant view of Huli wigmen villages.
Golden hour light over terraced hills and forested slopes.
Food in Tari
Tari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An earth-oven feast of pork, fish, root crops, and greens, wrapped and cooked in a large pit for smoky flavor.
Must-Try!
A traditional mash of starchy staples (taro, cassava, or plantains) mixed with coconut and sometimes meat, shaped and steamed or fried.
Freshly caught fish simmered in coconut milk with local herbs and greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh taro, kaukau (sweet potato), bananas, greens, and roasted yams; try fried plantains and grilled fish from stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Follow local protocols when visiting villages; seek permission from a guide or host before entering homes.
Ask for consent before taking portraits, especially of elders or ceremonial areas.
In villages and religious sites, wear modest clothing; remove hats and show sensitivity to local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Tari
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for guides and service staff but not mandatory; small, discreet tips in PGK are common.
Cash is widely used (PGK). Some lodges accept bank cards, and some markets may only take cash; ATMs are limited in Tari.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long hours of daylight, cooler nights, best for trekking and outdoor activities. Roads are drier but can get dusty.
Frequent tropical rains and high humidity; roads can be slippery and flights occasionally delayed; landscapes are lush and photography can benefit from rain-washed light.
Tari at Night
Hiking in Tari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A highland plateau trek with dramatic views, cool climate, and unique flora.
Ridgetop trails offering panoramic views of the Tari Basin and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach Tari by plane.
Small domestic airstrip serving Tari and surrounding settlements; schedules can be infrequent.
Main international gateway; from here you can reach Tari on domestic flights or via major hubs.
Regional hub in Morobe Province with connections to Port Moresby and other centers; useful for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major cultural group in the Tari region, known for distinctive beadwork, colors, and wig patterns.
Diverse languages and cultures; Tok Pisin and Huli are common in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across PNG, often played informally and enjoyed by spectators.
Common in schools and communities; local leagues and informal games occur.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist using tubers, greens, and legumes; ask cooks for vegetable stews and salads; avoid heavy meat-based curries.