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PAPUA NEW GUINEA cultural encounters as the Iatmul people, whose prolific wood carvings are seen throughout the Middle Sepik. Day trips from the Sepik Spirit are by an 18–seater riverboat, also custom designed for the operation. With nine twin rooms, guests will also appreciate the very comfortable accommodation. Each live-aboard cruise ventures into a culture that encounters very few outsiders annually. The Sepik Spirit may visit the Karawari River, Blackwater Lakes, Chambri Lakes, the Middle Sepik and the Upper Sepik. Rondon Ridge Rondon Ridge (pictured top three), situated at 2150 metres above sea level, offers sweeping views of the incredible Wahgi Valley as well as the Hagen Range and Sepik Divide. With continuous spring-like weather, this outstanding accommodation is unlike any other. Just 30 minutes from the centre of Mt Hagen, each of the 12 units offers 180–degree views, modern bathrooms and electric blankets. The Lodge features a main building with a lounge, bar, dining room, conference centre and a cosy fireplace for the cooler highland evenings. Business and conference visitors have access to the fully-equipped conference room complete with a digital projector for presentations. Rondon Ridge is situated on the edge of an untouched vast region, home to 10 species of bird of paradise and an unspoiled environment. To continue this ecological serenity, the heating and all power is supplied by the lodge's own hydro system, providing environmentally friendly electricity. There are numerous activities that give an insight into the special cultural traditions of the area. A comprehensive touring program takes guests on a journey through the traditions and customs of the Melpa people. First contact with the Melpa people was made as recently as the mid–1930s. With daily flights from Port Moresby to Mt Hagen, Rondon Ridge is also the perfect "jumping off" point for access to Ambua Lodge, Karawari Lodge and MV Sepik Spirit. Ambua Lodge - Southern Highlands Located at 2100 metres in the Tari Gap area of the Papua New Guinea Southern Highlands, Ambua Lodge (pictured bottom two) showcases local architecture, spectacular views and modest luxury. The Tari Gap is an excellent place to practice some birding with the chance to observe up to 13 species of birds of paradise. When you venture along the nature trails that are complete with traditional vine bridges, you may be lucky enough to discover a secluded waterfall or spot these beautiful birds. Accommodation at Ambua Lodge is in 36 individual units that feature 180–degree picture windows and a modern bathroom inside the Lodge. With its beautiful Highland architecture, the main building houses a lounge, bar, dining room and a beautiful, cosy central fireplace. In keeping with its back-to-nature feel, Ambua Lodge generates 24-hour clean electricity from its own mini hydroelectric power plant. A culturally vibrant place, this is the home to the Huli Wigmen with their human hair wigs adorned with colourful flowers. The Tari Valley is one of the few places left where men and women can be seen wearing traditional dress as part of daily living and men's wealth is still counted by the number of pigs and wives they possess. Tel: +675 5421438 Fax: +675 5422470 Email: service@pngtours.com www.pngtours.com Trans Niugini Tours PO Box 371, Mt. Hagen PAPUA NEW GUINEA www.paradisesonline.com 209