Taste of New Guinea 1: Birds of Paradise
Birds of Paradise Tour in Papua New Guinea – 7 Days
A 7-Day Introductory Birding Adventure in Papua New Guinea
This short yet rewarding 7-day birding tour introduces you to some of Papua New Guinea’s most accessible and exciting birding destinations—Varirata National Park on the Sogeri Plateau above Port Moresby and the famous Kumul Lodge near Mt Hagen. Remarkably, all of PNG’s endemic bird families can be encountered on this tour, making it the perfect introduction to the region’s extraordinary avifauna.
Our main focus will be on finding as many species of the dazzling Birds of Paradise as possible. Along the way, we’ll also seek out other New Guinea specialities, particularly the vibrant parrots, pigeons, and kingfishers that add so much colour to the forests. There are excellent opportunities for photographers, especially at Kumul Lodge, where Birds of Paradise often visit the lodge feeders, and at the PAU ponds in Port Moresby, a reliable spot for observing a wide variety of waterbirds at close range.
Birding Highlights – Taste of New Guinea Birds of Paradise Tour
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Raggiana Bird-of-Paradise – PNG’s national bird, renowned for its spectacular red plumes and elaborate courtship displays.
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Brown Sicklebill – A striking highland bird-of-paradise with its long downcurved bill and loud, machine-gun-like calls.
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Ribbon-tailed Astrapia – Famous for the male’s extraordinary tail feathers, up to three times its body length.
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Blue Bird-of-Paradise – One of the most elegant and sought-after birds, with vivid blue plumage and delicate long tail wires.
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Superb Bird-of-Paradise – Known for its remarkable “smiley face” courtship dance that captivates birders and photographers alike.
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Barred Owlet-nightjar – A cryptic nocturnal species, often roosting in tree cavities and blending perfectly with the bark thanks to its mottled plumage.
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Brown-headed Paradise-Kingfisher – A colourful and elusive kingfisher of New Guinea’s forests, recognised by its rich brown head and striking blue wings.
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Lesser Bird-of-Paradise – A dazzling species with golden flank plumes and long tail wires, often seen displaying in leks.
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King-of-Saxony Bird-of-Paradise – Instantly recognisable for the male’s extraordinary head plumes that can be extended and waved during courtship.
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Archbold’s Bowerbird – Famous for its elaborate bowers, decorated with colourful objects to attract mates.
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Brehm’s Tiger Parrot – A beautifully patterned parrot found in the highlands, with striking barred plumage.
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Smoky Honeyeater – A unique honeyeater with bare facial skin that changes colour when excited.
- Yellow-billed Kingfisher – A small but vibrant forest kingfisher, easily identified by its bright yellow bill and distinctive call echoing through the canopy.
Join Us on an Unforgettable Papua New Guinea Birding Adventure
Don’t miss your chance to discover the wonders of Papua New Guinea with our expert birding guides. Book your Birds of Paradise tour today and enjoy breathtaking sightings, unforgettable cultural experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime.