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The Sepik has a large catchment area and includes swamplands, tropical rainforests and mountains. Biologically, it is possibly the largest uncontaminated freshwater wetland system in the Asia-Pacific region

The river originates in the Victor Emanuel Range in the central highlands of Papua New Guinea. From its mountain headwaters it travels north-west and leaves the mountains and flows into Indonesian Papua, before turning back north-east for the majority of its journey following the Great Depression. Along its course it receives numerous tributaries from the Bewani and Torricelli Mountains to the north and the Central Range to the south.

For most of the Sepik’s length the river winds in serpentine fashion to the Bismarck Sea off northern Papua New Guinea. Unlike many other large rivers, the Sepik has no delta whatsoever, but flows straight into the sea, about 100 kilometres (60 miles) east of the town of Wewak.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: dwarf cassowary, Gurney’s eagle, twelve-wired bird of paradise, king bird of paradise, white-eared catbird
  • Where: Central Highlands, Papua New Guinea

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Birding in Paradise

An ideal location for birders, Papua New Guinea’s forests are home to a remarkable 700 species that includes 38 of the world’s 43 birds of paradise. Based in excellent remote wilderness lodges, knowledgeable local guides will introduce you to the country's extraordinary wealth of culture and wildlife. Find out more about Birding in Paradise

  • Price (inc. flights): 16 days from £8,945
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • A
    • M
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S
    • O
    • N
    • D

Culture & Birds of Paradise Photography

Join award-winning wildlife photographer Bret Charman in Papua New Guinea, and visit three of the country’s finest bird and wildlife locations. Take in lowland and montane rainforests, with enchanting cultural exchanges and festivals that offer compelling, colourful insights and photographic potential. Find out more about Culture & Birds of Paradise Photography

  • Price (inc. flights): 19 days from £11,695
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
    Tailor-made can be arranged
  • When to go:
    • J
    • J

East Sepik & Mount Hagen Highlights

Combine the rainforest clad lowlands of the Sepik River with the undulating Western Highlands on this adventure to discover the contrasting flora and fauna of Papua New Guinea. Renowned for birds of paradise, a heady mix of endemic wildlife and ancient cultures await in this truly fascinating place. Find out more about East Sepik & Mount Hagen Highlights

  • Price (inc. flights): 13 days from £8,095
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S
    • O

Indonesia Wildlife Highlights

Voyage through Indonesia to Papua New Guinea, exploring remote, jungle-clad islands and astonishing wildlife found nowhere else, including vibrant birds of paradise, whale sharks, and the legendary Komodo dragon. See vibrant culture and pristine landscapes among the rich biodiversity of this archipelago. Find out more about Indonesia Wildlife Highlights

  • Price (exc. flights): 18 days from £12,610
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • S
    • O

Papua New Guinea’s Birds of Paradise with Mike Dilger

Secluded, untouched and home to many of the world's birds of paradise, Papua New Guinea is unlike anywhere else on Earth. Led throughout by TV naturalist Mike Dilger, this itinerary has been specially designed to maximise our chances of encountering birds of paradise and other endemic birds. Find out more about Papua New Guinea’s Birds of Paradise with Mike Dilger

  • Price (inc. flights): 19 days from £12,895
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
    Tailor-made can be arranged
  • When to go:
    • J
    • J
    • A
Suggested accommodation is shown below. Please contact us for further recommendations.

Karawari Lodge

Karawari Lodge

Karawari Lodge stands on a lone ridge above the Karawari River, overlooking an endless expanse of dense tropical lowland rainforest in one of Papua New Guinea's most remote and unspoilt areas. Accommodation is in ten cottages, inspired by traditional architecture and constructed using local materials. Find Out More about Karawari Lodge

Recommended cruise vessel:

Sepik Spirit

Sepik Spirit EXPEDITION VESSEL

Sepik Spirit is a tourist vessel which cruises the Karawari River – a tributary of the Sepik River - and the Krosmeri River, allowing entry to the Blackwater Lakes and its stilt villages. Explore the river and its tributaries looking for birdlife, and visit Spirit Houses for an insight into local culture. Find Out More about Sepik Spirit