Standing majestically on a lone ridge, 300 meters above the banks of the Karawari River and overlooking an endless expanse of dense tropical lowland rain forest is Karawari Lodge. The lodge’s private airstrip and the Karawari River are the only way in or out. Stilted villages line the edges of flooded waterways and dug out canoes are the primary mode of transport. There are no roads, no shops and no phones.
This tropical lowland rainforest is one of earth's most complex of habitats, housing an immense variety of flora and fauna - a staggering 229 different bird species have been recorded at Karawari.
Guests are accommodated in ten separate cottages, each built out of local bush materials and inspired by traditional architecture. Each cottage has two private twin rooms, each with modern en-suite bathrooms, and a communal veranda. Despite its remoteness, the lodge has 220V electricity, hot and cold water, comfortable mosquito-netted beds, ceiling fans, and a breezy veranda - all make for a welcome sanctuary after a day's exploration.
The dining and lounge areas, "Puk Puk" Bar and a vast collection of Sepik artifacts are housed in Karawari's main lodge building, designed and built in the form of a traditional "haus tambaran” or spirit house. The awe-inspiring view at dusk has to be experienced to be believed, and while contemplating the vast expanse of jungle as the setting sun colors the clouds, one could almost believe that the world was born yesterday.
