Aitape

A coastal town positioned between West Sepik and East Sepik that combines beach access with cultural richness and historical significance from the World War II period. It serves as a good entry point for exploring both provinces and offers snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Things to do

• Snorkeling at Aitape Reef — Explore vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish species in the shallow waters off the coast, accessible by local boat.
• Visit Aitape War Museum — Tour a small museum dedicated to World War II artifacts and local history, including remnants from the Japanese occupation and subsequent Allied campaigns.
• Beach walk at Aitape Town Beach — Stroll along the local sandy beach where you can observe daily village life, local fishing boats, and sunset views over the coast.
• Diving at nearby drop-offs — Experience deeper water diving at nearby underwater walls and pinnacles with visibility often reaching 20-30 meters during dry season.
• Trek to surrounding villages — Hike to nearby Sepik region villages to experience traditional Melanesian culture, crafts, and homestays with local communities.
• Explore the Sepik River estuary — Take a guided canoe trip through mangrove channels and river tributaries to spot wildlife and visit isolated river settlements.

Food to try

• Sago with fish — A staple dish combining sago starch with freshly caught local fish, often prepared wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over open fire.
• Seafood curry — Local interpretation of curry using coconut milk, fresh prawns, and reef fish combined with indigenous spices and served with sago or rice.
• Taro and coconut soup — Hearty soup featuring taro root and coconut cream with occasional additions of fish or bush meat, a common village meal.
• Betel nut (buai) with lime — A traditional stimulant chewed socially throughout Papua New Guinea, combining areca nut with lime paste and betel leaf, offered during social gatherings.
• Grilled reef fish — Fresh catch from daily fishing prepared simply over coals or open flame, served whole with lime and local greens.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect local customs around betel nut — Accepting offered buai is a sign of friendship and respect, though declining politely is acceptable; be prepared for the red-stained teeth common among chewers.
• Dress modestly in villages — Wear lightweight long sleeves and pants or long skirts when visiting traditional settlements to show respect for local values, though beachwear is acceptable on town beaches.
• Learn basic Tok Pisin — While English is spoken in town, locals appreciate visitors attempting Tok Pisin phrases; it significantly enhances interactions and cultural exchange in smaller communities.
• Ask permission before photographing — Always request consent before taking photos of people or sacred sites, as some communities have traditional beliefs about image capture.

Nearby

• Lumi (Sandaun) — 23 km
• Nuku — 42 km
• Sepik River — 53 km
• Palei — 53 km