Gondwana Connection is offering a 14 day tour to Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea for persons with a particular interest in the reptiles/amphibians to be found on the islands and mainland areas of this region.

In 2010 we carried out our first reptile orientated tour to this part of PNG. The crew consisted of a bunch of Australian amateur herpetologists and gave us our first real opportunity to document the reptiles and amphibians of Milne Bay.

PNG is like a convergence area for herpetifauna from the Pacific, South East Asia, tropical Australia and of course has its own unique creatures.

I am sure that nobody will be disappointed with the experience that awaits them in Milne Bay. The diversity in the wildlife can be demonstrated by the fact that this province has 25+ species of land snakes and this includes 8 species of Boa/Pythons. Amongst these are the delicate Pacific Ground Boa, PNG’s most protected reptile the Boelen’s Python and the rather excitable Papuan Taipan.

Snakes off course only form part of the action, with skinks, forest dragons, monitors, geckos and frogs all adding to the excitement.

Fergusson Island will offer the opportunity to encounter their endemic Bogert’s Monitor, while the Sagarai Valley will allow us to see the absolutely beautiful Sphenomorphus mullerii. Evening herping will be possible most nights with local guides to keep all safe. There has been time allowed for not only in-situ photography, but also for controlled photography during daylight hours.

We will be based in the provincial capital Alotau and will be staying at Napatana Lodge (www.napatanalodge.com) for 6 nights. The remaining 7 nights will be spent in village guest houses. This presenting the opportunity to experience the culture of these wonderful people and at the same time putting very important eco tourism dollars into their communities.

The fresh seafood and village grown produce offered daily in these villages is a real treat. Tour departs Cairns, Nth Queensland and will consist of a small group of 6 same interest people.

There are numerous reasons for pricing this tour from Cairns. Amongst these being it allows for individuals to select their landing and departure dates in Cairns, should the urge to do some additional herping in the Wet Tropics come upon you.

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