Mount Giluwe – A Hiker’s Dream

Mount Giluwe is the second highest mountain in Papua New Guinea, standing at 4,367 meters (14,327 feet) above sea level.

Lake Kutubu – A Peaceful Paradise in the Highlands

The calm blue water, rich biodiversity, and peaceful surroundings make it a relaxing getaway for those who want to escape the busy world. Visitors can take dugout canoe rides, go birdwatching, enjoy nature trails, or learn about local customs, stories, and traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Wawoi Falls – Hidden Waterfall in the Jungle

Wawoi Falls is one of the lesser-known but truly breathtaking waterfalls in the Southern Highlands Province. Tucked away in the forested areas of the province, Wawoi Falls offers a spectacular view of water crashing down into a deep pool, surrounded by tall trees and birdsong.

Discover Lake Ekari – The Heart of Upper Mendi's Natural Beauty

Nestled in the highlands of Upper Mendi, Lake Ekari is a peaceful and scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and quiet village life. It is a place where nature remains untouched and life moves at a gentle pace

Explore Mt. Ialibu – A Mountain of Beauty and Culture

Mt. Ialibu, located in the heart of Ialibu District, Southern Highlands Province, is a mountain rich in natural charm and local history. Standing tall over surrounding villages, Mt. Ialibu offers breathtaking views, cool weather, and a peaceful highlands environment.

Mendi River – The Lifeline of Southern Highlands

Mendi River flows gently through the heart of Southern Highlands Province, starting from the mountains of Upper Mendi and making its way down through valleys and villages. It is one of the most important rivers in the province, providing fresh water, food, and life to the people who live along its banks.

About Southern Highlands Province

Demography

Southern Highlands Province is home to many different tribes and language groups. The people mostly live in rural villages, with a few small towns spread across the province. Most families grow their own food and rely on farming to survive. Traditional customs, stories, and ways of life are still very strong, and communities live closely with one another, helping and supporting each other in their daily lives.

Explore the Natural Wonders of Southern Highlands Province

Southern Highlands Province in Papua New Guinea is not only rich in culture and natural resources but also home to some of the most stunning natural attractions in the country. These include the towering Mount Giluwe, the peaceful Lake Kutubu, and the breathtaking Wawoi Falls. These special places attract both local and international visitors who want to enjoy nature, adventure, and unique cultural experiences.

Wawoi Falls

Lake Kutubu

Mt. Giluwe

Wawoi Falls

Lake Ekari

Mt. Ialibu

Mendi River

Geography

The province is located in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea. It shares borders with Western Highlands, Enga, Hela, Simbu (Chimbu), and Gulf provinces. The land is full of tall mountains, deep valleys, rivers, and forests. One of the most famous natural sites is Mount Giluwe, the second highest mountain in the country, standing at 4,367 meters. Another beautiful place is Lake Kutubu, which is a peaceful and important tourist destination known for its clear water and rich culture of the Foe and Fasu people who live nearby.

Economy

Southern Highlands is rich in natural resources. It is home to the Kutubu Oil Project and the Gobe Gas Fields, which are very important to the economy of Papua New Guinea. These projects bring jobs and development to the province. Most local people still depend on agriculture, especially coffee farming and growing food crops for their families. In recent years, there have been improvements in roads, schools, and health services, helping to bring better living conditions to the people.

Gobe Oil Field

Kutubu Oilfield

Moran Oilfield

Leadership

Southern Highlands has produced some of the country’s top leaders. Sir Wiwa Korowi, who was from the province, served as Governor-General of Papua New Guinea from 1991 to 1997. Another key leader is Peter O’Neill, who was Prime Minister from 2011 to 2019. Both men played important roles in shaping the nation. Today, leaders from the province continue to work on bringing services and development to improve the lives of their people.

Peter O'Neil

Former Prime Minister: 2011 – 20219

Sir Wiwa Korowi

Former Governor General: 1991-1997