Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Birdwatching in the Huon Peninsula is highly rewarding and worth the journey. Nonetheless, travellers must be aware that this is a very remote area with limited services. There are no hotels, no restaurants, no hospitals in the area and you will be accommodated in a very remote safari style camp. Huon Birding will do their utmost best to ensure the trip is comfortable for all travellers, however, travellers will need to be flexible and understanding should plans change due to reasons beyond Huon Birding’s control.

The following frequently asked questions may help you plan for your trip.

Do I need to book a hotel in Lae for one night pre and one night post the Huon trip?

Due to flight schedule changes from Lae to Huon Peninsula and potential weather impacts on small aircraft, Huon Birding recommends you arrive in Lae one day prior to the start of your trip and stay in Lae one night after your trip ends. Accommodation, meals and transportation in Lae can be organised by Huon Birding.

How long is the flight from Lae to the Huon Birding Camp?

The flight between Lae and the camp is between 30-40 minutes each way, depending on weather conditions. The aircraft has weight restrictions, with a baggage allowance of 10kg per person. Extra baggage allowance can be purchased and uploaded at the discretion of the pilot. Excess cargo not needed on the trip can be left in storage at the airline's office and collected on return to Lae.

Where will we stay in the Huon Peninsula?

Accommodation is at the newly created Huon Birding Camp - a safari tent style facility complete with running water, drop toilets, a hot water shower, generator for power, tent for meals and a small kitchen. Each sleeping tent can be fitted as Twin share or Single. Each tent has a sleeping cot bed, small cupboard, lighting and a charging power-board. Travellers must bring their own sleeping bag.

What are the facilities at the Huon Birding Camp?

Facilities at the camp are basic but make the trip comfortable. There are two pit toilets. There is running water to the camp and we even have a hot water shower cubicle. There is a small generator to power the camp and charge your batteries.

Do I need to bring my own food?

No, all food and drinks will be provided at the camp. Meals will be very basic due to the remoteness of the area and difficulty in getting supplies. Breakfast will consist mostly of cereal / porridge and plain bush biscuits. Lunches will be mainly plain bush biscuits with tuna / noodles. Dinner will consist mostly of rice, vegetables and tinned meat (tuna/pork/beef). Water, tea, coffee and fruit will also be provided. Huon Birding will do their utmost to provide a variety of meals for guests, but please note that catering for specific dietary requirements may not be feasible. Vegetarian meals can be catered for. Please ensure you advise any special dietary requirements well in advance. If you would like to bring your own snacks, you may do so, but it is not required.

What will the weather be like?

You will be travelling and sleeping in a cool montane forest, so you need to be prepared for cold and wet weather. It will be cool in the mornings and evenings and there is a good chance of rain, so jackets and full body ponchos are ideal.

Where will we go birdwatching?

Most of the birding is concentrated on top of the Saruwaged range near the camp, with a maximum height of 2000 metres. Majority of the sites visited by Huon Birding are in walking distance from the camp. Birding consists of easy walking along the main road with diversions into side tracks. Some days will consist of sitting in one location and waiting to see what comes into the flowering trees. The Emperor BOP leks require a one hour drive down the range. Many target species can also be seen directly at the camp site. Hiking boots are sufficient for the terrain covered.

Do I need to get insurance for the trip?

Yes, all travellers booking through Huon Birding must have evacuation insurance. Huon Birding travels to remote locations where often emergencies require evacuation, and the only option of evacuation is via a charter flight. Huon Birding also recommends all travellers have all necessary personal medication and first aid supplies as there is no possibility of re-supply in the area.

How do I book?

You can contact us directly, please find our details on the contacts page of the website. Alternatively, you can also book through one of our specialized agents who can also arrange the rest of your Papua New Guinea birding tour.