7 Reasons to add the Goroka Show to your bucket list
Are you a traveller who prefers culture over cocktails? Would you rather unforgettable moments over filtered Instagram photos? If the answer is yes, the Goroka Show should be on your bucket list!
Held in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea, this annual cultural festival is one of the most amazing experiences you can have in the South Pacific. As a PNG tour company, South Sea Horizons has taken hundreds of travellers to witness the magic of the Goroka Show and believe it’s an extraordinary look into the soul of PNG. It’s a celebration of tradition, connection, and colour.
Here’s what you can expect:
It’s one of the largest cultural festivals in Papua New Guinea
Bringing more than 100 tribes together from across PNG, the Goroka Show highlights their traditional music, dance, dress and stories. Known as “sing-sings,” these traditional performances are full of drumming, chanting, and incredible tribal costumes made from feathers, body paint, shells, and natural fibres.
Watching the Goroka Show, you’ll witness the incredible cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea, all in one place. It’s loud, beautiful and raw, like nothing else on the planet
You’ll experience a (over) 60-year-old tradition
Since the 1950s, the Goroka show has been promoting unity between the Highlands tribes. Now, it’s both a celebration of identity and pride, being passed from one generation to the next. Experiencing the Goroka show is being a part of something meaningful and drenched in tradition.
It’s a photographer’s dream
If you love photography, the Goroka Show is the perfect opportunity to take some incredible shots. From the painted faces to towering headdresses and dramatic dance movements, every moment is worthy of a snap. The performers are incredibly welcoming, often happy to pose or share a smile. Just remember to be respectful, as this isn’t a tourist performance, it’s their culture.
You’ll gain a deeper perspective on Papua New Guinea’s culture
PNG’s culture is exceptionally rich and layered. There are over 800 languages spoken, and each region has its own customs, beliefs and ways of life. The Goroka Show gives you a powerful insight into this cultural mosaic, especially when paired with a guided tour through villages, markets, and the stunning PNG Highlands with South Sea Horizons.
The scenery is just as incredible
Goroka Town is located in the heart of the Highlands, with lush green mountains, cool breezes, and a laid-back charm. The town itself is welcoming, with local markets, coffee plantations, and a welcoming atmosphere.
When you travel with South Sea Horizons, the experience doesn’t stop at the show; we build in authentic cultural interactions so you get the full PNG experience.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience
These days, there aren’t many places in the world where you can really go off the beaten track and have an experience that few others have had. The Goroka Show is the exception.
You’ll remember this trip forever.
It’s easy to organise with the right PNG tour company
PNG is remote and not your average tourist destination, but that’s what makes it special. With South Sea Horizons, we’re locally based, culturally connected, and experienced in hosting small group tours through PNG. We take care of everything, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the experience.
Ready to experience the Goroka Show for yourself?
The Goroka Show usually takes place in September, so it’s the perfect time to plan your trip.
Let South Sea Horizons show you the real Papua New Guinea. Get in touch today to learn more about our Goroka Show tour packages, and let’s make this bucket list dream a reality.
