Papua New Guinea's Sepik River

The Sepik River flows 1,126 kilometers through Papua New Guinea, creating one of the world's largest and most intact freshwater wetland systems. This mighty river, comparable to the Amazon, remains undammed and largely unmodified. Over 200 distinct language groups along its banks maintain traditional lifestyles intimately connected to the river ecosystem. The river system supports remarkable biodiversity including numerous endemic fish species, crocodiles exceeding 6 meters, and vast bird populations. Flooded forests create unique habitats while oxbow lakes harbor endemic species. Traditional crocodile scarification ceremonies reflect deep cultural connections to wildlife. Art traditions inspire by river life are world-renowned. Conservation relies on traditional management systems and indigenous knowledge. Communities manage resources through customary law. Limited infrastructure naturally restricts impacts. Eco-tourism provides income while preserving cultures. The Sepik demonstrates biocultural diversity conservation where indigenous management maintains ecosystem integrity.

Water Features

Sepik River, tributaries, lakes, wetlands

Ecosystem

This destination features a wetlands ecosystem.