Highlands Region, Papua New Guinea

A series of fertile valleys and rugged mountains, this region takes in the Eastern, Southern and Western Highlands, and the Simbu and Enga provinces. The country’s most densely populated region is known for its coffee plantations, cultural diversity and beautiful orchids, and is home to many rare animals, insects and bird species, including the brilliantly plumed birds of paradise. The people of the Highlands are renowned for their colourful headdresses and traditional arts and crafts. More than 700 cultures, each with their own different traditions, have been identified in this diverse region.