Want to tackle some of the least explored terrain on the planet and bag a world first? Join a Papua New Guinea trekking expedition as part of the team attempting the first Mt Giluwe traverse. As the second highest peak in PNG, the expedition will test your endurance in untouched wilderness.
Most of Papua New Guinea remained unexplored until less than 100 years ago. To this day, little is known about much of it and humans have never even set foot on some of its stunning peaks. If you’re looking for a virgin territory trekking experience, then this is it.
The first Mt Giluwe traverse
Some of the first travellers to reach PNG were the Leahy Brothers back in the 1930s. Their accounts of what they found here are still inspiring adventurers today. Their vivid descriptions of the highlands bring to life an incredible world – much of which is still to be re-discovered.
In fact, through extensive research, No Roads Expeditions have found no evidence of any one traversing the mighty 4,367 metre Mt Giluwe Massif. This is perhaps due to the colossal 3,000 foot drop that dominates the west side of the mountain and it’s inaccessibility.
So No Roads are planning the first Mt Giluwe traverse, and you could be part of the team. To begin you’ll trek across a fascinating natural landscape learning about its history and culture.
You’ll venture to places that few people have ever seen and no-one has ever photographed. Eventually reaching the eastern section of the mountain you’ll head out into true uncharted territory and tackle the west side.
Papua New Guinea trekking expedition
Arriving in Port Moresby, you’ll take an internal flight to Mt Hagen airport and transfer to Kagguba Village to start the trek. Seven full days of trekking follow with an attempt on the Mt Giluwe summit halfway through. The itinerary of the trip may vary because the western section is unknown.
It’s also possible to add on an extension to your trip, transferring to Kundiawa and climbing to the summit of Mt Wilhelm – PNG’s highest peak.
Formed by a series of volcanic eruptions, Mt Giluwe has been weather beaten and glacially eroded over millennia to form its current unique state. Once covered by a colossal ice cap, it now towers over the landscape around it, with its U-shaped valleys and high plateau enticing explorers.
One of the most remote parts of Papua New Guinea, there are few if any signs of humans in the Mt Giluwe area. Vast forests give way to open grassland and at night the temperature can drop rapidly – so you’ll need to be prepared. Winds and rain can come on quickly, fog can fill valleys and snow is not unheard of.
Although good fitness is required no prior trekking experience is necessary. You’ll need to bring appropriate clothing and be aware that sunburn and exposure are very real threats at this altitude, even if it doesn’t feel hot.
This Papua New Guinea trekking expedition to take on the first Mt Giluwe traverse, is a genuine once in a lifetime opportunity. If you’ve ever dreamed of going on an expedition, or to be the first person to reach somewhere remote, then this No Roads Expeditions is giving you this rare and incredible opportunity.
If you’d like to be part of the first Mt Giluwe traverse then it costs AUS$3,600 to join this unique Papua New Guinea trekking expedition that will take place 22 May – 31 May 2017. You can find out more at: www.noroads.com.au
