How to get to Tari

Tari is a vibrant town in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, serving as a gateway to the unique culture of the Huli people. Travelers wishing to visit Tari should prepare for a true expedition into the remote Hela region, accessible by a direct flight or an exciting drive along winding mountain roads.

The fastest way to reach the town is by air: the local Tari Airport (TIZ) receives regular flights from the country's capital and other regional centers, ensuring a reliable connection with the outside world. The airport is located in close proximity to main guesthouses and tourist bases, making arrival as comfortable as possible.

For those unable to find a direct ticket, a convenient alternative is a flight to Mount Hagen or Mendi. These transport hubs receive a larger number of flights, and from there, you can continue your journey along the picturesque highland roads.

Railway services are completely absent in this highland region of Papua New Guinea, so it is impossible to reach Tari by train. The complex mountain terrain and the specific nature of the country's infrastructure have not allowed for the development of a railway network here.

Tourists should not look for train stations either in the town itself or in nearby settlements such as Mendi or Mount Hagen. The main methods of travel between towns remain roads and light aviation.

Regular bus services of the standard format are absent in Tari, and the main means of public transport here are route taxis (PMVs). Travelers should look for such minibuses at informal bus stations in the towns of Mendi or Mount Hagen, however, departure takes place only once the vehicle is full.

Travel time on such transport is difficult to predict due to road conditions, but it is the most budget-friendly way to get to the destination. Be prepared for cramped conditions and a lack of comfort, compensated by the local cultural experience.

A trip by car to Tari offers the opportunity to see stunning highland landscapes but requires driving experience on difficult routes. The shortest route leads from the town of Mendi, where a distance of 128 km can be covered in approximately 3 hours.

A longer journey awaits those departing from the major transport hub of Mount Hagen: the road stretching 255 km will take about 5.5 hours. A route is also available from Wapenamanda (about 194 km and 4.5 hours of travel), but for any trip in this region, it is strongly recommended to use a reliable SUV.

A trip to Tari promises to be unforgettable thanks to the unique culture and nature, but the remoteness of the region requires careful preparation. To ensure your journey is comfortable and safe, pay attention to the following recommendations.

1. Clothing and Gear. The climate in the highlands can be cool and humid, especially in the evenings. Be sure to bring a warm fleece jacket, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy trekking shoes for walking on rough terrain.
2. Transport. Roads in the region are often washed out or in poor condition. For travel, it is best to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle (4WD) with an experienced local driver who knows the route.
3. Finances. It is difficult to find ATMs accepting international cards or payment terminals in Tari. Always carry a sufficient supply of cash in the local currency (Kina), preferably in small denominations.
4. Health and Hygiene. Despite the altitude, the risk of malaria remains, so use repellents and consult a doctor about prophylaxis. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
5. Communication. The official language is English, but locals more often speak Tok Pisin or tribal dialects. Learning a few simple greeting phrases will help you establish contact with the population faster.
6. Local Etiquette. The culture of the Huli tribe is very distinctive. Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in traditional attire, as a small fee is often expected for this.
7. What to Avoid. It is not recommended to walk alone after dark or to display expensive gadgets or jewelry on the street.
8. Additional Tip. Try to visit the local market on weekends — this is the best place to buy fresh fruit and see the real life of the town without tourist embellishments.

Following these simple rules will help you focus on the main thing — getting to know the amazing traditions and hospitality of the residents of Tari.