Confront Our Culture

Rabaul is renowned for its rich traditions of song, dance and ceremonies. These range from deeply rooted cultural rituals to songs telling recent events, and even entertaining performances filled with humour and local flavour.

In more recent times, string bands featuring guitars and ukuleles became popular, followed by Paus Bens — groups using electric instruments. You’ll hear this music in shops, buses and public spaces across Rabaul and Kokopo. Choral singing, especially undirected four‑part harmony in church groups, remains a cornerstone of Tolai life.

National Mask Festival & Warwagira

Held every mid‑July, the National Mask Festival showcases singsings, string bands, Paus Bens, and choirs. Designed for visitors, the festival offers an up‑close look at a wide variety of performances. We can arrange custom visits combining festival highlights with island excursions to Matupit and the Duke of York Islands.

Island Life on Matupit

Matupit—once an island, now a peninsula between Tavurvur and Rabaul town—offers volcano views, community restoration projects and unique local experiences such as hot springs where megapode eggs are boiled by locals.

• Volcanological Observatory (Haus Guria) & old Rabaul ruins
• Community gardens, United Church and restoration efforts
• Hot springs & local culinary traditions

An Interactive Experience

This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s participatory. Prepare a traditional mumu or aigir lunch, learn pandanus weaving and basketry, try your hand at tambu shell strings and join a singing group to learn Tolai songs and dances.

Tours to Your Taste

We offer tailored itineraries for individuals and small groups. Tell us your interests—cultural performances, island exploration, festival packages or culinary workshops—and we’ll create a private experience.

Cultural Workshops

Enhance your visit with immersive workshops led by skilled Tolai artisans. Learn the art of tapa cloth making, traditional drumming rhythms, or local dance choreography.

• Tapa cloth painting & design
• Drumming and rhythm workshops
• Traditional dance lessons

Gastronomic Delights

Experience the diverse flavors of Rabaul’s culinary heritage. From freshly caught seafood grilled over coconut husks to rich desserts infused with tropical fruits, every meal tells a story.

• Seafood feasts with the locals
• Coconut and taro-based desserts
• Tropical fruit tasting sessions