Things to Do in Trobriand Islands, Papuanewguinea

The Trobriand Islands, also known as the Kiriwina Islands, are a remote archipelago in Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay Province, famous for their unique matrilineal society and rich cultural traditions. These pristine coral islands, made internationally renowned by anthropologist Bronisław Malinowski's early 20th-century studies, offer visitors an authentic glimpse into one of the Pacific's most fascinating indigenous cultures, where yam harvests are celebrated with elaborate festivals and traditional exchange systems still govern daily life. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, the Trobriand Islands provide an off-the-beaten-path destination for adventurous travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty. The main island of Kiriwina serves as the cultural and administrative center, while the surrounding smaller islands offer pristine beaches, world-class diving, and opportunities to witness traditional crafts like canoe carving and weaving that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Top Things to Do in Trobriand Islands

Cultural Village Tours

Experience authentic Trobriand culture through guided village visits where you'll witness traditional ceremonies, learn about the famous yam cultivation practices, and observe the intricate social customs of this matrilineal society. These immersive tours often include demonstrations of traditional crafts, storytelling sessions, and opportunities to participate in daily village activities.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guesthouses or cultural centers for around $50-80 per day including guide and meals. Best visited during yam harvest season (May-July) when cultural activities are most vibrant. Look for guides who speak both English and local languages.

Traditional Canoe Building Workshops

Participate in or observe the ancient art of traditional outrigger canoe construction, a skill passed down through generations of Trobriand craftsmen. These workshops provide insight into the sophisticated woodworking techniques and cultural significance of these vessels, which are central to inter-island trade and transportation.

Booking Tip: Contact local cultural centers or village chiefs to arrange workshops for $30-50 per person. Best organized during dry season (May-October) when woodworking is most active. Advance notice of 2-3 days usually required.

Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving

Explore some of the Pacific's most pristine coral reefs surrounding the Trobriand Islands, featuring an incredible diversity of marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and pristine coral formations. The clear waters and relatively undisturbed reefs make this an exceptional destination for both snorkeling and scuba diving.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local operators or guesthouses for $40-70 per day including equipment. Best conditions during dry season (May-October) with visibility up to 30 meters. Ensure operators provide quality safety equipment.

Yam Festival Participation

Witness or participate in the spectacular annual yam festivals, which celebrate the harvest and showcase the elaborate social hierarchies and gift exchange systems central to Trobriand culture. These colorful events feature traditional dancing, ceremonial displays of prize yams, and complex ritual exchanges that demonstrate the islands' unique social structure.

Booking Tip: Plan visits between May-August when most festivals occur, with peak celebrations in June-July. Contact local tourism offices or guesthouses for festival schedules. No formal booking required but accommodation should be arranged well in advance.

Island Hopping Adventures

Explore the various islands of the Trobriand archipelago by traditional outrigger canoe or small boat, discovering secluded beaches, hidden lagoons, and remote villages each with their own distinct character. These multi-day adventures offer opportunities for fishing, beachcombing, and experiencing the maritime culture that connects the island communities.

Booking Tip: Organize through local boat owners or guesthouses for $60-100 per day including boat, guide, and basic meals. Best during calm weather months (May-October). Ensure boats have safety equipment and experienced operators familiar with local waters.

Getting There

Reaching the Trobriand Islands requires flying from Port Moresby to Gurney Airport on Kiriwina Island via PNG Air, with flights operating 2-3 times per week and taking approximately 1.5 hours. Alternative routes include flying to Alotau in Milne Bay Province and then taking a charter boat or small aircraft to the islands. Due to limited flight schedules, advance booking is essential, and travelers should be prepared for potential delays or cancellations due to weather conditions. Some visitors also arrive by private yacht or join organized expedition cruises that include the Trobriands in their itineraries.

Getting Around

Transportation within the Trobriand Islands is primarily by foot, bicycle, or local truck transport along the limited road network on Kiriwina Island. Inter-island travel relies on traditional outrigger canoes, small motorboats, or dinghies, which can be arranged through local operators or guesthouses. Many guesthouses provide bicycles for guests, and walking is often the most practical way to explore villages and coastal areas. For longer distances on Kiriwina, local PMV (Public Motor Vehicle) trucks provide basic transport, though schedules are informal and dependent on local needs rather than tourist timetables.

Where to Stay

Losuia Village

Omarakana Village

Kaibola Village

Yalumgwa Village

Olivilevi Village

Kiriwina Lodge Area

Food & Dining

Dining in the Trobriand Islands centers around fresh local ingredients including fish, tropical fruits, root vegetables, and the famous Trobriand yams. Most meals are provided by guesthouses or arranged through village homestays, featuring traditional cooking methods using earth ovens and featuring dishes like grilled fish, taro, sweet potato, and coconut-based preparations. There are very few formal restaurants, so visitors typically eat with local families or at their accommodation. Fresh tropical fruits like bananas, papayas, and coconuts are abundant, and visitors can often participate in traditional cooking demonstrations or help prepare meals using local ingredients and traditional techniques.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Trobriand Islands is during the dry season from May to October, when weather conditions are most favorable for both cultural activities and water-based adventures. This period coincides with the yam harvest season (May-July), offering the best opportunities to witness traditional festivals and cultural celebrations. The dry season also provides optimal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and inter-island travel, with calmer seas and better visibility. While the islands can be visited year-round, the wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall, rough seas, and potential flight disruptions, though this period may offer lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds for those willing to accept the weather challenges.

Insider Tips

Bring cash (PNG Kina) as there are no ATMs or card facilities on the islands, and arrange currency exchange in Port Moresby before departure

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic medical supplies as shopping options are extremely limited and environmental protection is crucial

Learn basic cultural etiquette such as asking permission before photographing people or ceremonies, and showing respect for traditional customs and social hierarchies that govern daily life

Things to Do in Trobriand Islands