Varirata National Park: Exploring Papua New Guinea’s Spectacular Natural Beauty
Nestled in the foothills of the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea, Varirata National Park is a stunning, serene natural paradise. Home to a variety of rare and endangered species, this unique park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.
Varirata National Park: An Overview
Established in 1989, Varirata National Park is a stunningly beautiful area of land situated in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. The park covers an area of over 450 hectares, and is home to a wide range of diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforest to grasslands, swamps and streams.
Varirata National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 50 species of birds, 25 species of mammals and numerous reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Among the more eye-catching animals that can be found here are the endangered Long-beaked Echidna, the Southern Cassowary and the Matschie’s Tree Kangaroo.
Exploring Varirata National Park
Varirata National Park offers a range of activities and experiences for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Visitors can explore the park on foot, taking in its spectacular natural beauty. There are a number of trails that can be taken, ranging from easy to more challenging hikes. Popular trails include the Varirata Loop Trail, which takes in the main highlights of the park, and the more challenging Mt Turu Track, which takes you to the summit of Mt Turu and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
For those who don’t want to explore on foot, there are also a number of other activities on offer. Visitors can go mountain biking, birdwatching, and even swimming in the park’s crystal-clear streams.
Accommodation in Varirata National Park
Visitors to Varirata National Park can choose to stay in a range of accommodation options. For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are a number of campsites located throughout the park. These are basic but comfortable, providing visitors with a great base for exploring.
There is also a range of other accommodation options available, from lodges and hotels to guesthouses and homestays. These offer more comfort and amenities, such as hot showers and in-room amenities, making them ideal for those looking for a more luxurious experience.
Getting to Varirata National Park
Varirata National Park is located in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, approximately 200km from the capital Port Moresby. The park can be accessed via a number of routes, including air, road and sea.
By air, visitors can take a flight to Goroka Airport, located just 28km from the park. From here, there are regular buses and taxis that can take you the rest of the way. Alternatively, you can take a bus or hire a car from Port Moresby and drive to the park.
Conclusion
Varirata National Park is a stunning natural paradise that offers something for everyone. From birdwatching and mountain biking to swimming in the park’s crystal-clear streams, there are a range of activities and experiences on offer. With a range of accommodation options, from rustic campsites to luxurious lodges and hotels, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.