Papua New Guinea is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. There are 851 known languages in the country of which 11 now have no known speakers. Most of the population of more than 8 million people lives in customary communities, which are as diverse as the languages. The country is one of the world's least explored, culturally and geographically. It is known to have numerous groups of uncontested peoples, and researchers believe there are many undiscovered species of plants and animals in the interior.
On the Sepik river, there is a tradition of wood carving, often in the form of plants or animals, representing ancestor spirits.
Seashells are no longer the currency of Papua New Guinea, as they were in some regions. This tradition is still present in local customs. In some cultures, to get a bride, a groom must bring a certain number of golden-edged clam shells as a bride price.
People of the highlands engage in colourful local rituals that are called "sing sings". They paint themselves and dress up with feathers, pearls and animal skins to represent birds, trees or mountain spirits. Sometimes an important event, such as a legendary battle, is enacted at such a musical festival.
Papua New Guinea Papua Niugini - Capital Port Moresby - Area 462,840 km2 - Population 8,606,323 - Attractions Port Moresby, Sepik River, Mount Hagen Festival, Highland Trekking