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Madang

One of the most diverse areas of the most ethnically heterogeneous country in the world, the northeastern province of Madang alone is home to over 170 distinct languages. During World War II, Madang saw intense fighting between the Japanese and Australian armies, so much so that the town was reduced to ruins, and had to be rebuilt.

Today, Madang is mostly free of development and largely unspoiled, a land of volcanoes and jagged mountains overlooking the calm, peaceful waters of the Bismarck Sea. A highlight of the area is the plentiful, diverse marine life, including various species of sharks, rays, and coral - perfect for divers and kayakers.

EXPERIENCES

Barracuda Point

Enjoy the vibrant marine life at Barracuda Point, including barracuda, trevally, sweetlips, fusiliers, hammerhead sharks, silvertip sharks, large coral cod, and schools of sea perch.

Canoeing Expedition

Canoe down the Gogol River, Gum River or Naru River south of Madang town, or the Surumarang River or Wasab River north of the town, depending on water levels. The winding rivers are slow flowing, which will give you ample opportunity to enjoy the view of riverside jungle, and the thatched houses and food gardens of local people living along the river.

Madang Lagoon

Go diving in the Madang Lagoon. The outer perimeter of the lagoon consists of a series of islands connected by coral reef which forms a mini barrier reef of steep walls, each site home to a variety of coral structures. Because of its geography, the area is a real muck diver’s paradise.

Planet Rock

Dive at the volcanic seamount known as Planet Rock, only a few miles offshore from Madang. The seas around the mount plummet to a depth of over 2,000 feet, but the strong ocean currents that surge through Astrolabe Bay sweep around and across the apex of the mount at only 15 feet. Fortunate divers also have encounters with hammerheads, which have been known to school here, and the tiger shark.

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PAPUA-NEW-GUINEA Regions

MAJOR AREAS

Malolo Plantation Lodge

Originally a coconut plantation, the Malolo Lodge retains its colonial architectural charm and is located right on the coast, a 45-minute drive from the beach-and-diving town of Madang. The resort looks out over the Bismark Sea to the active volcano of Karkar on the horizon, and has several excellent sites for snorkeling and diving in PNG's extremely biodiverse waters right nearby. Malolo has 14 air-conditioned, en suite guest rooms, each with a balcony looking out over the water. The lounge, bar and dining room are open on all sides to allow in sea breezes. The lodge also has a freshwater swimming pool and tennis courts.

Jais Aben Resort

Jais Aben Resort is located on 22 acres of a former coconut plantation, situated beautifully on the tip of a peninsula between the Bismarck Sea and the Nagada Harbour. Located directly on the seafront with beautiful views facing the open sea, it features twin bungalow style units, all strategically located to catch the sea breezes. All bungalows come with air conditioning, ceiling fan, TVs, fridges, and coffee/tea-making facilities, with some units featuring private verandas. The stylish Coco's Restaurant offers local and international cuisine, and the informal Bridge Bar & Grill is perfect for relaxed beachfront dining. The resort also boasts a well-stocked games room.

Keki Eco-Lodge

It’s a long a bumpy road to get to Keki Eco-Lodge, but one that rewards those who make the journey with thrilling views, as they pass through the thick jungle of Madang, Papua New Guinea. Keki Eco-Lodge, at nearly 3,000-feet above sea level, is surrounded by the majestic Adelbert Mountain Range. Upon arrival, the hotel’s staff will come to greet guests with friendly smiles, and escort them to their traditionally-styled cottages. Rooms come equipped with kerosene lamps, pit toilets, freshly-washed bedding, mosquito nets, and more. Refreshing showers are taken in the nearby creek.The guesthouse staff are more than happy to assist with tours of the area, including both the surrounding jungle and the local village. Among the many thrills of staying in this isolated guesthouse cocooned by jungle and mountains are the exotic native birds, some incredibly rare, and beautiful mammals that roam the area.

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