Description
A stunning rustic style lodge, Karawari Lodge set in a pristine environment and stands majestically on a lone ridge amidst a vast expanse of dense tropical lowland rainforest, which extends beyond the horizon for what seems like a thousand miles in every direction. The heat is intense here, with no cool mountain air or sea breeze, and the sounds and sights of nature are all around you. This is ’Arambak’ country, one of the most remote and unspoilt areas of Papua New Guinea, with the Karawari River only 300 feet below as your only way in or out. The Karawari is a tributary of the mighty Sepik River which flows throughout the north of the country, and has a unique culture and tradition very different to the Highlands regions.
This tropical lowland rainforest is one of earth’s most complex of habitats, housing an immense variety of flora and fauna along with a culture unlike anywhere else on earth. Exploring villages in small riverboats along the jungle-fringed waterways is as rewarding as it is exhilarating. See the people make use of the land - weaving baskets for catching fish in the river, or gathering, preparing and cooking their staple food from the Sago Palm.
Children are around everywhere, happily playing with home made toys, oblivious to the material desires of the West. Until you visit such an untouched and remote culture, it is hard to realise how much the modern world has changed everyday values. Family is everything here, with many generations all living under one roof and for people to leave the village to set up home elsewhere is rare.
Your guide is local to the area and is incredibly knowledgeable of the traditions, stories and rituals, of which there are many. Sepik artefacts are considered to be the most intricate and well crafted of Papa New Guinea’s diverse artwork and the lodge has an enormous collection.
Accommodation at Karawari Lodge is in ten cottages built from local bush materials in the traditional style. Each cottage has two private twin rooms with en suite bathrooms and a communal veranda and although simple in style, they are comfortable and spacious. For the more adventurous, overnight stays in neighbouring traditional villages can be organised.
Accommodation
Karawari's 10 separate cottages are each home to two private ensuite bedrooms which share a communal veranda. Despite its remoteness, the lodge has 220V electricity, hot and cold water, ceiling fans and comfortable mosquito net covered beds.
Childcare
Children are welcome at Karawari Lodge and families with a keen sense of adventure and an interest in nature and culture will absolutely love it here. Please note, however, that there are no specific facilities for children.
Facilities
Meals are served in the lodge's dining room but there is also a comfortable lounge and 'puk puk' bar for guests to enjoy.
Activities
Activities at Karawari Lodge very much centre around nature walks, bird spotting, river trips and village visits and Karawari's knowledgeable guides are from the local area and are experts in all aspects of this region.
When to travel
The climate is the main consideration in deciding when to visit Papua New Guinea. It’s certainly best to avoid the rainy season from December to March as the weather can be wet, muggy and uncomfortable. The dry season is from May to October.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Papua New Guinea
Situated in ’Arambak’ country, one of the most remote and unspoilt areas of Papua New Guinea, with the Karawari River only 300 feet below. Accessible only by river or private plane.
How to get there
Private charter flight from Mount Hagen.
