Ambunti

A strategic riverside town on the middle Sepik River known as a hub for exploring the region's interior and accessing nearby villages with exceptional artistic traditions. The town offers access to some of Papua New Guinea's most authentic indigenous cultures and is a key stop on Sepik River expeditions.

Things to do

• Sepik River boat tours — Navigate the winding middle Sepik River by motorized canoe to observe traditional villages, wildlife, and the river's unique ecosystem.
• Visit nearby Chambri Lakes — Explore the interconnected freshwater lakes east of Ambunti where Chambri people live in stilt villages and practice traditional fishing and crocodile hunting.
• Sepik Art market and artifact viewing — Browse and purchase authentic carvings, masks, and woven baskets directly from local artisans in Ambunti's market and community workshops.
• Karawari Lodge area exploration — Visit the renowned eco-lodge region downriver to observe primary rainforest and access guided treks into the interior with expert naturalists.
• Village homestays and cultural immersion — Stay with local families in surrounding villages to participate in daily activities, learn traditional skills, and experience authentic Sepik River life.
• Crocodile and bird watching — Take early morning or dusk boat excursions to spot saltwater crocodiles, hornbills, eagles, and other tropical wildlife along the river.

Food to try

• Sago with fish curry — Starchy sago palm processed into a staple served with freshly caught river fish cooked in coconut milk and local spices.
• Grilled freshwater fish — Whole river fish wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over open fire, served simply with lime and local greens.
• Taro root dishes — Boiled or roasted taro served as a starch base, often accompanied by coconut-based vegetable preparations.
• Coconut crab — Land crabs caught in the rainforest, prepared in coconut broth or grilled, considered a delicacy in Sepik River communities.
• Betel nut (areca nut) — Widely chewed throughout the region and offered socially; the nut wrapped in betel leaf with lime creates a mild stimulant and red-stained lips.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for men's house protocols — Many villages maintain traditional men's houses (tambaran) that are culturally sacred; ask permission before photographing and never enter without invitation.
• Gift-giving etiquette — Bring small, practical gifts like tobacco, salt, or fishing supplies rather than money; gifts build relationships and are expected in village interactions.
• Photography restrictions — Always ask before photographing people, ceremonies, or sacred carvings; some communities prohibit images entirely or require payment or trade goods.
• Bilum bags and local trade — Support local economy by purchasing handwoven bilum bags and artifacts; these represent hours of craftsmanship and provide essential income to artisans.

Nearby

• Mai Mai — 16 km
• Karawari Lodge Area — 24 km
• Dreikikir — 34 km
• Palei — 48 km