New Guinea is the centre of the world for birds-of-paradise, a family of around 45 species famous for males’ extraordinary plumage and courtship displays. Most species live only on New Guinea and nearby islands, and Papua New Guinea (the eastern half of the island) is one of the best places to see them. The Raggiana bird-of-paradise even appears on the national flag.
At a glance
| Best time | May to October (drier season), though conditions vary by region |
| Getting there | Fly to Port Moresby, then domestic flights to the highlands |
| Time needed | 10 to 16 days |
| Big draws | Birds-of-paradise, bowerbirds, cassowaries, cultural festivals |
| Good for | Keen birders, adventurous travellers |
Where to see birds-of-paradise
Varirata National Park (near Port Moresby)
The easiest site: an hour from the capital, with a display tree where male Raggiana birds-of-paradise perform at dawn, fanning their red plumes and calling. See our greater bird-of-paradise profile for a close relative.
The Tari Valley (Hela Province)
In the Southern Highlands, lodges in montane forest offer an astonishing variety: King of Saxony bird-of-paradise (with long head plumes), ribbon-tailed astrapia (with the longest tail feathers relative to body size of any bird), Stephanie’s astrapia, blue bird-of-paradise, brown sicklebill and superb bird-of-paradise.
Kumul Lodge (Enga Province)
A highland lodge with a feeding table visited by ribbon-tailed astrapias, brown sicklebills and many honeyeaters.
Kiunga and the Fly River
Lowland forests with king and twelve-wired birds-of-paradise, and the flame bowerbird.
Other wildlife
- Bowerbirds: males build elaborate bowers decorated with coloured objects. See our satin bowerbird profile for an Australian species.
- Southern cassowaries and tree kangaroos in remote forests. See our southern cassowary and tree kangaroo profiles.
- Kingfishers, parrots, pigeons and pitohuis (poisonous birds).
- Coral reefs at Milne Bay and Kimbe Bay, among the most diverse on Earth.
Culture
PNG has more than 800 languages. Festivals such as the Goroka Show and Mount Hagen Show (usually in August or September) bring together groups from across the highlands in traditional dress, often including bird-of-paradise plumes.
Practical and safety notes
- Travel in PNG is logistically complex, with domestic flights, rough roads and limited infrastructure.
- Crime is a concern in some areas, including parts of Port Moresby and the highlands. Travel with a reputable specialist operator and follow local advice. Check current government travel advice.
When to go
Birding is possible year-round. The drier season (roughly May to October) is generally easier for travel. Birds-of-paradise display in the early morning; displays vary by species and season.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see birds-of-paradise most easily? At Varirata National Park near Port Moresby, where Raggiana birds-of-paradise display at dawn.
How many species can I see in PNG? On a two-week trip to several regions, keen birders may see 15 or more species.
Is PNG safe for birdwatching trips? With experienced operators and lodges, most birding trips go smoothly, but check current advice and follow guidance.
Can I see birds-of-paradise in Indonesia? Yes, in West Papua, including Raja Ampat’s red and Wilson’s birds-of-paradise. See our Raja Ampat guide.
Related guides
- Raja Ampat diving guide
- Daintree Rainforest wildlife guide
- Birding in Colombia
- Animal profiles: Greater bird-of-paradise, Satin bowerbird, Southern cassowary
Cover photo: markaharper1, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons