Sepik

Queen's Birthday long weekend Birgit and I headed to Wewak to take a trip up the Sepik river.  We stayed with, Christina, who is a volunteer working at the Teacher's College who was very hospitable.  I was disappointed that the weather wasn't hotter although Birgit may have appreciated that.

There are a few places to stay in Wewak but crashing with a "wantok" is always better.

Joseph (mobile +675 7121 4829) was our guide for our adventure.  He picked us up from the airport, dropped us off at Christina's and told us he would pick us up at some unearthly hour in the morning.  True to his word he arrived on time...not PNG time.  He brought along a female relative because we were just two white girls and he wanted us to feel comfortable.  Most impressive.  The beetle nut chewing was not so impressive but he was not driving so I could bear it.

Gilbert was our driver and he was a safe driver.  We had a pleasant drive (quite a few hours) up the to the river.  Joseph brought us some sandwiches and water.  The sandwiches were perhaps a little dodgy but we had brought some of our own food and bought some fruit along the way.

When we arrived at the Sepik river we transferred into a canoe. Although it was a hot day it felt cool as we sped across the water.  Definitely glad I had a long sleeve shirt and plenty of sunscreen.

The river was beautiful and Joseph told us about some environmental issues and culture as we travelled.

Our accommodation for the evening was basic but comfortable.  We took a wash in the river.  Not sure if we were brilliantly clean but we were refreshed.  There was a wooden box "toilet" but it was a little off putting to see that our waste was going into the water below us.  It didn't seem to directly join with the river...I told myself that anyway!  We had a mattress on the floor and mosquito nets to protect us. Also glad for the Bushman's mosquito repellent.

On the way up Joseph asked what we would like to eat, "tin fish, fresh fish or puk puk (crocodile)".  There was no debate.  We both agreed that while on the Sepik, puk puk was a must.  It was a great choice too.  The puk puk stew was delicious!

After a visiting some Haus Tambarans (Spirit Houses) we returned the way we came.  It was a rushed visit but really worthwhile!

For dinner we enjoyed the fresh fish we bough from the lady on the river for 50t each.  Yum.