Southern Highlands Province Practical information

Health & safety

Dangers & annoyances

Historically the Southern Highlands were beset with lawlessness and tribal fighting. Mendi’s hospital closed, the banks pulled out and it was easy to fall prey to the sensationalist stories that the international media love so much.

These days many of the clans have sorted out their differences and the region is enjoying relative security. Nonetheless, because the area is unpredictable and potentially dangerous it would be foolhardy to rely solely on any advice given here; instead we recommend that you ask the locals about the current status quo and be prepared to curtail your travel plans if the situation warrants it.

The road between Nipa and Tari is particularly volatile as the Nipa villagers are still nursing a grudge and vowed vengeance for the fatal car crash that killed their 2002 election-winning politician. Witchcraft was suspected.

Tari is much quieter and the resorts there are secure and safe.