Pay tribute at the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Bomana War Cemetery.
Take a private helicopter tour over Kokoda, with stops at Brigade Hill and Isurava Memorial.
Visit Bitapaka and Kokopo War Cemeteries and uncover WWII history in Rabaul.
Explore Admiral Yamamoto’s bunker, Japanese tunnels, and volcanic sites around Rabaul.
Cruise the Duke of York Islands, with snorkelling, village visits, and wildlife encounters.
Swim with hundreds of Spinner Dolphins near Kokopo.
Witness the dramatic Baining Fire Dance cultural performance.
Embark on a journey of remembrance, reflection, and cultural discovery in Papua New Guinea. Created for travellers who want to honour the Anzac spirit while experiencing the country’s unique landscapes and traditions, this itinerary combines moving commemorations with meaningful encounters.
Begin with the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Bomana War Cemetery before flying by helicopter over the Kokoda ranges to Brigade Hill and the Isurava Memorial. Explore WWII history at cemeteries, tunnels, and bunkers in Rabaul, gaining deeper insight into the stories that shaped this region. Balance these moments of history with experiences of daily life and natural beauty. Cruise the Duke of York Islands, swim with dolphins at sunrise, wander vibrant local markets, and learn traditional practices in welcoming villages. Witness the powerful Baining Fire Dance, a cultural ceremony passed down for generations.
This is a journey that weaves together history, culture, and nature. From solemn remembrance to vibrant cultural traditions, each day invites connection, learning, and reflection.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Papua New Guinea! Located in the southwestern Pacific, this remarkable country encompasses the eastern half of New Guinea along with its surrounding islands. Famed for its immense cultural and biological diversity, Papua New Guinea offers a truly unique travel experience with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs that continue to draw nature lovers and adventure seekers from around the world.
After clearing customs and immigration, you’ll be warmly welcomed in the arrivals hall by our representative. You will be assisted with your transfer to the Hilton Hotel where your room will be ready for you. Settle in and freshen up after your flight.
We will then head off on our first tour for this trip, making our way to the National Museum and Art Gallery for a private guided tour. Home to significant historical artefacts and art pieces, this part of the tour is a great way to gain an understanding of the rich culture of Papua New Guinea. We will return to the hotel late afternoon for an early dinner, as we have an early start tomorrow morning for Anzac Day. (L,D)
Overnight – Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby or similar
We will be departing the hotel at around 3:30am to drive to Bomana War Cemetery (30min) for this year’s Anzac Day Dawn Service. Bomana War Cemetery is the final resting place for over 3000 Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives fighting in campaigns around PNG in WWII. The service is very moving and attended by thousands of people and is sure to be a profoundly memorable experience. As the sun rises, the service will come to an end, and we will make our way back to the hotel for breakfast.
Following breakfast, we will then make our way to Port Moresby private hangars for our private helicopter tour of Kokoda. This experience is like no other and will give you and experience and views of the rugged mountain ranges of Kokoda.
This tour includes two stops, with the order determined by the weather on the day. One stop will be to Brigade Hill. This site is where the bloodiest battle of Kokoda took place. Your guide will talk you through what was experienced on this very site, which will no doubt lead to some reflection of what these young men and women sacrificed. We will then depart Brigade Hill and make a short flight to Isurava. Isurava is home to the famous Four Pillars – the Kokoda Memorial Site paying homage to those who served during WWII.
We will then reboard our chopper to head back into the air and make our way back to Port Moresby where you will be transferred back to the hotel. We will arrive early-afternoon where you can enjoy lunch and take the afternoon to relax after an early start and plenty of moving around. Enjoy dinner at your leisure. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Hilton Hotel, Port Moresby or similar
Following breakfast at the hotel, we will check out from our rooms and make our way to Port Moresby Domestic Airport for our flight to Rabaul (1.5hrs). At the domestic terminal, we will have an Executive Check-In Service that will ensure a stress-free experience, in what can otherwise be a chaotic environment. We will relax in the comfortable Executive Lounge, with complimentary food, beverages and WiFi as we wait for our flight.
Upon arrive in Rabaul, we will drive to Bitapaka War Cemetery which is on the way to Kokopo town. This is another spectacular and well-manicured memorial site, which is in fact the location of where the first Australian causalities took place in WWII.
From here, we will head to your accommodation and check in. Settle in for lunch before we embark on our afternoon tour of Kokopo town. Kokopo town was once the fastest growing city in the Pacific, following the eruption of Mt. Tavurur in 1994. Many people from Rabaul moved to Kokopo following the eruption and it has fast become one of Papua New Guinea’s largest regional cities.
We will make our way back to the resort late-afternoon to watch the sunset over Blanche Bay and enjoy a nice dinner on the over-water balcony. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo, or similar, in a Premium Poolside Room
After breakfast, we will being our historical tour of Rabaul. Discover and learn about the historical significance Rabaul has had over the years, throughout both world wars and two major volcanic eruptions. Explore Admiral Yamamoto’s bunker, the Japanese underground tunnels and submarine base, and the Niugini Club. Visit the Rabaul Volcanic Observatory and take in the views of the town once referred to as the Pearl of the Pacific.
After stopping for lunch at the famous Rabaul Hotel, we will make our way back to Kokopo mid-afternoon where will stop off at the Kokopo War Museum. This site is home to many artefacts from WWII and is a great place to further piece together the history that was endured during the war times in Papua New Guinea. We will return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Relax and enjoy dinner at the resort this evening. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo, or similar, in a Premium Poolside Room
Following breakfast, we head off for a full day exploration of the Duke of York Islands, a location where we can experience the real Papua New Guinea. We will cruise around the islands and hear some of the history whilst taking in the wonderful array of colours and vibrancy of this small archipelago.
On our voyage watch out for dolphins, the fanciful dugong and local fishing canoes. The waters round here are crystal clear, azure, blue lagoons with white sandy beaches and lush green vegetation, paradise in its truest form!
On the Island we will be hosted by the village and learn more about traditional weaving, cooking and fishing. Your leader will arrange an island tour. It is advised to wear some comfortable water shoes such, as crocs or sandals. You will enjoy a picnic lunch on the island and have the chance to snorkel at your leisure. We will depart the island back to Kokopo around mid-afternoon and you will have time to relax at your hotel before dinner is served this evening. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo, or similar, in a Premium Poolside Room
After breakfast, we will make our way to a village where we will meet the local villagers who will introduce us to their way of life. The village is located on the water, looking across to Mt. Tavurur (Rabaul’s active volcano), and is a great spot for a swim if you feel like jumping in the water.
After a locally prepared lunch, we will head to nearby Japanese tunnels from WWII. We will take a guided walk through the maze of tunnels, which descend to about 20 metres deep. The tunnels consist of 3 stories, including a kitchen and a myriad of escape routes.
We will head back to the resort mid-afternoon where you can relax, enjoy a swim in the pool or read your favourite book by the water. Dinner will be enjoyed at the resort this evening. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo, or similar, in a Premium Poolside Room
As the sun rises, we head down to the beachfront to board a banana boat to head to a nearby dolphin breeding ground. You will have the chance to swim with hundreds of Spinner Dolphins this morning, freeing your mind and giving you an intimate connection with nature. Alternatively enjoy witnessing them swim at the bow of your boat, where you will have 100’s of dolphins within arm’s reach.
We will return to the resort for breakfast at around 0830 before we head off to the Kokopo Markets. Renowned as one of Papua New Guinea’s best markets, you will be in awe of all the fresh produce available. There is also a great arts and crafts section, so be sure to take some cash with you in case something grabs your eye. We will return to the resort where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure and relax before this evening’s final spectacle. As we are heading off on an evening tour, we anticipate returning to the resort around 8:30pm – 9:00pm, so it is recommended to place your dinner order with the resort staff prior to departing and it will be ready for you upon your return.
At around 4:30pm, we will depart for an exclusive cultural experience featuring the Linganga, known to Westerners as the Fire Dance. The Baining clan, distinct among the cultures of Papua New Guinea, does not use the traditional Kundu drum for rhythm; instead, they utilize bamboo, producing a unique sound that complements the fire dance. This ritual is performed exclusively by highly ranked initiated men and offers a profound spectacle, deeply rooted in ancient tradition, that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Rapopo Plantation Resort, Kokopo, or similar, in a Premium Poolside Room
Following breakfast at the resort, you will be privately transferred to Rabaul (Tokua) Airport for your flight to Port Moresby. You will again be directly assisted by our representative with an executive check in service and you will have access to the Executive Lounge while you wait to board your flight.
Upon arrival in Port Moresby, our representative will assist you to the international terminal to check in for your departing flight from Papua New Guinea. (B)
This tour is part of our Signature Papua New Guinea collection. There are our hallmark small-group journeys – seamless, elevated, and authentic.
Experience Papua New Guinea in comfort with meticulously curated journeys designed to make travel as smooth and stress-free as possible. PNG is an extraordinary destination but travel here can be challenging – flights may change, infrastructure can be unpredictable, and navigating it alone can feel overwhelming.
That’s why every journey begins and ends at Port Moresby airport, with our team handling everything from the moment you land until you depart. You’ll be personally met, assisted with currency exchange and local SIM cards, and guided through the busy domestic terminal with executive check-in for your flights, and lounge access at both the start and end of your trip at domestic airports.
Accommodation offers a mix of comfort and authenticity. Some stays are luxurious, while others are the best available standard in remote locations. In the Niugini Islands, you’ll enjoy barefoot luxury, such as beachfront bungalows with ocean views and eco-conscious touches like compost toilets.
While we can’t control every variable in a destination with the unique complexities of Papua New Guinea, this style of travel offers the smoothest possible experience. With small groups of maximum 12 guests and our most trusted local partners, you’ll explore PNG with confidence, supported by a team that blends deep local knowledge with an understanding of Western traveller expectations.
Why you will love our Signature Papua New Guinea collection:
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
*Pricing is per person, twin share. Single supplement is $1196.
* Pricing is subject to change at any time until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 8 adults is required to guarantee this departure. Maximum group size is 8-12* (see notes in Tour Details PDF)
A non-refundable deposit of 30% per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 120 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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