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Province · Highlands Region
Chimbu
Chimbu, or Simbu, is the province of Mount Wilhelm, the highest point of Papua New Guinea, of the Wahgi River gorges and of the skeleton dancers.
In the photo: Summit of Mount Wilhelm
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
The province
Get to know Chimbu
Chimbu Province, also called Simbu, lies in the centre of the Highlands, between the Eastern Highlands and Jiwaka. It is one of the most mountainous and most densely populated provinces in the country, with gardens on steep slopes and villages scattered through the valleys. The capital, Kundiawa, sits beside the Chimbu River.
To the north of the province rises Mount Wilhelm, the highest point in Papua New Guinea, with high-altitude lakes such as Piunde and Aunde in valleys above the tree line. The summit can have frost.
The Wahgi River cuts the province in deep gorges, and the Chimbu River descends from the northern valleys to join it. Lookouts over the valleys and gorges are part of the landscape.
Chimbu’s skeleton dancers perform with their bodies painted black and white to resemble skeletons, in a dance linked to spirit stories. They appear at Highlands festivals such as the Goroka Show and the Mount Hagen Show.
The United States government advises against travel to this province. Before planning, check your own government’s current travel advice.
When to go
The climate varies with altitude: the valleys are mild, and the top of Mount Wilhelm is cold, with the possibility of frost at night. June to September is usually the driest period; December to March brings more rain.
Getting there
The province lies on the Highlands Highway, the road that links Goroka to Mount Hagen, and Kundiawa is a few hours’ drive from Goroka. The nearest airports are Goroka and Mount Hagen.
Your questions
Frequently asked questions about Chimbu
What is the highest point in Papua New Guinea?
It is Mount Wilhelm, on the border of Chimbu with neighbouring provinces. Published elevations vary between sources, but it is always cited as the country’s highest peak.
What are the Piunde and Aunde lakes?
They are high-altitude lakes in the Mount Wilhelm massif, in northern Chimbu, located in valleys above the tree line, surrounded by alpine fields and rocky slopes.
Who are Chimbu’s skeleton dancers?
They are groups who perform with their bodies painted black with white lines to resemble skeletons, in a dance connected to spirit stories. They commonly appear at the major Highlands festivals, such as the Goroka Show and the Mount Hagen Show.
Do any governments advise against travel to Chimbu?
Yes. The United States government advises against travel to the Highlands, except to the towns of Mount Hagen and Goroka, which includes Chimbu. These recommendations are reviewed frequently; check the current guidance from your country.