Fact 1: Diversity in language
Let's kick off with a linguistic surprise: Papua New Guinea (PNG) has more languages than any other country, boasting over 850! This immense linguistic diversity mirrors the country's cultural and biological diversity. Languages range from widespread versions, like Tok Pisin (a Creole language widely spoken), to obscure languages spoken by just a handful of people in remote tribes.
Fact 2: Biomass Wonder
Papua New Guinea represents 1% of the world's land area, but it's home to an astonishing 5% of the world's biodiversity. The country boasts a rich assortment of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. From colourful birds of paradise to unique tree kangaroos, PNG's wildlife is a dream destination for any naturalist.
Fact 3: Bird Lovers Paradise
Speaking of wildlife, PNG offers a feathered spectacle few others can match - with over 700 species of birds. The land is particularly famous for its 43 species of extraordinary birds of paradise, admired for their vibrant plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Bird watching doesn't get better than this!
Fact 4: Largest Butterfly on Earth
If you are a fan of butterflies, PNG should top your bucket list. It's home to the world's largest butterfly, the Queen Alexandra's Birdwing. With a wingspan reaching up to a remarkable one foot, this is truly a sight to behold for any insect enthusiast or casual spectator.
Fact 5: A Cannibalistic Past
Until quite recently (around the 1950s), cannibalism was practiced in some areas of Papua New Guinea. The Fore people would consume their relatives' brains during funeral rituals, leading to the spread of the deadly prion disease Kuru, also known as the laughing sickness.
Fact 6: No Official Religion
Papua New Guinea doesn't have an official religion, even though it's predominantly Christian, split among various denominations. Indigenous Polytheistic religions also exist, and there's a different spiritual belief system for each of the hundreds of cultural groups present in the country.
Fact 7: Land of Tribes
Given its linguistic diversity, it should come as no surprise that Papua New Guinea is home to thousands of traditional communities or tribes. This country is sometimes referred to as the "Land of the Unexpected," because the culture and traditions vary drastically from one tribe to another.
Fact 8: Largest Pacific Island
Geographically speaking, Papua New Guinea is quite special. When you exclude the continent of Australia, PNG is the largest island in the Pacific and the third largest island in the world, trailing only behind Greenland and New Guinea.
Fact 9: Hiking Extravaganza
Among the natural wonders of PNG, the Kokoda Trail holds a specific interest for hikers. It's a challenging 60-mile track through rugged mountainous country featuring dense jungles and rapid rivers. It's not just a physical challenge but also a historical one as it was a significant site during World War II.
Fact 10: Daylight Consistency
Papua New Guinea's position near the equator means that sunlight is fairly consistent throughout the year. Sunrises and sunsets usually occur around 6 AM and 6 PM, respectively, ensuring nearly 12 hours of daylight each day regardless of the season.
Fact 11: Intricate Body Art
The Huli Wigmen of PNG are famous for their traditional wigs and body paint. The wigs are not just a cover for the head but are intricately designed works of art made from their own hair, mixed with colourful feathers from birds like parrots and birds of paradise.
Fact 12: Unexplored Land
Despite its size, Papua New Guinea's interior remains largely unexplored. The country's rugged, mountainous terrain and dense forests have kept large areas secluded from the outside world, preserving the land's natural beauty, as well as its cultural integrity.
Fact 13: Vulgar Nicknames
The origin of "Papua" in the country’s name comes from a Malay term meaning "frizzy-haired," and "New Guinea" was coined by Spanish explorers noting the similar appearance of the locals to people of Guinea in Africa.
Fact 14: Plane Graveyard
World War II resulted in a significant number of aircraft being abandoned in Papua New Guinea. Today, these forgotten aircraft form a "plane graveyard," attracting tourists, especially divers and history enthusiasts.
Fact 15: Independent Women
In the Chimbu province, men are expected to pay a "bride price" when marrying. However, unlike many similar cultures, Chimbu women can choose their husbands and may even initiate divorces.
Fact 16: Volcanic Activity
Papua New Guinea is located along the Ring of Fire, an area in the Pacific Ocean prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country has approximately 16 active volcanoes, presenting both risks and intriguing sightseeing opportunities.
Fact 17: First Sight of the Universe
Interestingly, Papua New Guinea is one of the first places on Earth to witness the sun rise each day. This means PNG enjoys the first light of each new day before most of the world!
Fact 18: Tales of WWII
World War II had a huge impact on PNG. It was a major battlefield, and relics like crashed aircraft and abandoned weapons can still be found, especially along the famous Kokoda Trail, making it a significant historical destination.
Fact 19: Unique Sport
Rugby might be the national sport, but did you know about Lewa Huli, a unique game to PNG? Played among tribes, this can involve thousands of players and the goals can span miles apart, making it one of the largest sports events in the world!
Fact 20: Human Habitation History
Last but not least, PNG has a remarkably long human history. It's believed to have been inhabited for at least 40,000 years, with archaeological evidence pointing to one of the world’s first successful agricultural practices in the region dating back around 10,000 years.