Tucked away, only accessible by boat, sits what may be Papua New Guinea’s best kept secret – Tawali Resort. Welcome to the exotic culture of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and to Tawali Resort. Located on a volcanic bluff overlooking the clear protected waters of Milne Bay, Tawali offers a unique location to relax and enjoy the unspoiled wonders of this magnificent part of the world.

Tawali is located in a secluded area of Milne Bay amongst local fishing villages and accessible only by boat. Built on a limestone bluff eighty feet above the water, Tawali offers guests a private retreat in which to enjoy the wonders of PNG. Tawali was constructed by local craftsmen and you will find beautifully carved totems and woodwork in the spacious main lodge and throughout the resort.

Some of these works of art took two years to complete and are unique to the Milne Bay culture. Covered walkways connect guest bungalows, which are complete with private balconies overlooking Hoia Bay. The air-conditioned bungalows are spacious with two queen beds and rosewood interiors that include desks, closets and lounge areas. Each room has coffee making facilities. Bathrooms are modern, completely tiled and have solar heated water.

Highlights of this tour

  • All inclusive tour – meals and activities included in tour cost
  • War History Tour in historically significant Milne Bay Area
  • Walks and scenery providing cultural insight
  • Cooking, canoe making & basket weaving demonstrations
  • A beautiful relaxing location a world away from home!

Day 1 ARRIVAL IN MILNE BAY

You will be collected from the airport by Milne Bay Magic Tours who will conduct your War History tour.

Milne Bay played a significant role in World War II history. American and Australian forces were based in Milne Bay from May 1942. When the war in the Pacific escalated and the Japanese navy started moving south, two battles ensued in Milne Bay, which altered the course of the war.In May 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea, allied forces turned back the Japanese after an intensive battle in the skies. Three months later, a second attempt saw the Japanese troops land at Ahioma. After twelve days, the Australian army defeated the invading troops – the first land defeat inflicted on the Japanese by the Allies.

At the conclusion of your tour, you will be transported 1.5 hours down a bumpy road – it’s all part of the adventure of being in PNG. Along the way you will be charmed by locals waving to you from the roadside – these are some of the friendliest people in the world!

On arrival at the jetty, you will board Tawali’s own transfer boat for the 20 minute ride to the resort. Tawali’s friendly staff will show you to your room – a lovely spacious bungalow, and as you meander along the walkways through the resort you will feel like you are walking in the trees!

Day 2 A DIFFERENT WORLD!

Today you will enjoy a guided walk to visit two skull caves – a fascinating insight into PNG culture.
Skull caves are a mostly forgotten reminder of PNGs history. Usually discovered by villagers looking for new garden land many skull caves in PNG have yet to be discovered and have long been grown over by the forest. Start your hike at the base of a steep cliff over a shallow reef and hike your way up into the rain forest learning about the different trees and plants along the way.

We also visit the Hiliwau waterfall – this is a forty minute hike up through the lush forest to beautiful waterfalls where you can take a break for a snack and dip in the pool before heading down. If we have time, we will also visit Wagahuhu village, school and aid post.

We finish with a walk along the beautiful north coast back to Tawali Resort.

Day 3 VILLAGE ACTIVITIES

Today you will have the chance to participate in a traditional cooking class. Although Papua New Guinea is not as well known for cuisine as some other countries, it is very interesting to learn about the different foods of the regions and how they are prepared.

You will also have the opportunity to spend some time with local villagers, learning how canoes are made, and traditional baskets are woven. This is a lovely glimpse into a life that has retained its traditions and values.

The rest of the day is one of relaxation; to read, swim, snorkel from the beach, or just do nothing! Tawali is such a stunning part of the world, you won’t have any trouble finding beautiful things to look at, or friendly people to chat with!

Day 4 COAST OR RAINFOREST?

Take your pick!

You can choose to take another walk along the coast and visit several villages along the way. This is a unique opportunity to see day to day rural village life in PNG. Many of the ladies create beautiful craft items including the iconic bilum (or string) bag, woven in beautiful colours and patterns.

Alternatively, you may wish to take a guided hike through the beautiful rainforest in this area – the choice is yours!

Day 5 END OF TOUR

All good things must come to an end – your friendly staff will arrange for your transfer to Gurney airport for your onward flight.

Tour Details

Inclusions

  • 4 nights accommodation at Tawali Resort – twin share
  • Airport transfers
  • All meals
  • War history tour
  • Skull Caves & Waterfall Tour
  • Cooking Class
  • Village activity – canoe building & basket weaving
  • Choice of coast or rainforest walk
  • Use of snorkelling gear for shore snorkelling

Exclusions

  • International and Australian domestic airfares
  • PNG domestic airfares
  • Passport & Visa costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Vaccinations and anti-malarial medicines
  • Meals not stated Port Moresby
  • Personal expenditure including drinks

Notes

  • This tour runs ex-Alotau
  • Additional night’s accommodation:
  • $POA per person per night twin share.

Cost 5 day tour

Twin share: $1,350 per person
Single Supplement: $ 200

The Fine Print

A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to secure a booking. The remaining monies are payable 60 days prior to departure.
Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
The walks included are not difficult but a reasonable level of fitness will enhance your enjoyment. You should ensure you have comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Departures on request