Southern Highlands,

chasing the Volcano's Summit!

Southern Highlands

Climbing Mount Giluwe

Exploring the Southern Highlands

The Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea are a land of rugged beauty and untamed wilderness. With towering mountains and dense rainforests, the region offers a breathtaking escape into nature. The province is home to some of the highest peaks in the country, including Mount Giluwe, the highest volcano in Oceania (4,368 meters above sea level) , and the second-highest mountain in Papua New Guinea.

The landscape is a stunning mix of alpine grasslands, lush forests, and mist-covered valleys. The Southern Highlands are also rich in culture, where indigenous tribes have maintained traditional ways of life for centuries.

The people of this region are known for their hospitality and deep connection to the land, which is reflected in the many conservation initiatives taking root, such as those in the Giluwe Nature Sanctuary. These efforts aim to protect the local environment and promote sustainable living.

For adventurous travelers, the Southern Highlands offer an authentic experience, where the beauty of the land and the warmth of its people come together to create a truly unique destination.

Summit and Spirit:

Climbing Mount Giluwe with Heart and Purpose

In mid-April 2025, I set off on one of the most unforgettable adventures of my life with 501 Tours / Sogeri Hikers: the ascent of Mount Giluwe, the highest volcanic peak in Oceania and the second-highest mountain in Papua New Guinea. From the start, I knew this journey would be special — not only was I the only non-Oceanian in the group, but the spirit of camaraderie and excitement was truly contagious.

After landing in Mt Hagen, our first stop was the Giluwe Nature Sanctuary, in the beautiful village of Lama (pronounced Kama). There, we were warmly welcomed by a community passionately involved in reforestation and environmental education. Their smiles, curiosity, and generosity made a lasting impression.

Then came the climb — 11 intense hours through untouched primary rainforest, mossy paths, and a vast, otherworldly swampy plateau. The landscapes were spectacular, with majestic waterfalls and endless open skies. After a sudden downpour, we reached base camp soaked but joyful, gathering around a crackling fire under the stars. The next morning, standing at 4,368 meters with a jaw-dropping 360° view, I felt nothing but awe and gratitude.

We descended laughing, muddy and exhausted — but with hearts full. An experience I’ll treasure forever.