Madventures Season 1 Episode 7 Papua New Guinea

Madventures is an exhilarating travel documentary series that follows two Finnish thrill-seekers, Riku and Tunna, as they travel the world, seeking out unique and off-the-beaten-path adventures. In the seventh episode of Madventures' first season, the duo journeys to the remote island nation of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea is a country with a rich cultural heritage, made up of over 850 indigenous languages and tribes. Riku and Tunna immerse themselves in this fascinating world, visiting a variety of villages and gaining insight into the customs and traditions of the local people.

Their journey begins in the highlands, where they encounter the Huli Wigmen, a tribe whose elaborate wigs and face paint hold great significance in their culture. Riku and Tunna participate in a traditional wig-making ceremony, helping to prepare the hair, feathers, and leaves used to create the distinctive wigs worn by the Huli men. They then witness a spirited performance by the Huli Wigmen, who use drums and chanting to mark the occasion.

From there, the duo travels to the coastal town of Alotau, where they witness the colorful spectacle of the Canoe Festival. This event celebrates the enduring tradition of seafaring in Papua New Guinea, with dancers and musicians performing aboard elaborately decorated canoes. Riku and Tunna even have a chance to try their hand at paddling one of the traditional canoes, navigating the waves and getting a taste of life on the high seas.

The next leg of their journey takes them to the Sepik River, a powerful and expansive waterway that is central to life in Papua New Guinea. Along the riverbanks, Riku and Tunna encounter a number of tribes who use the river as a source of food, water, and transportation. They witness a traditional Sepik River initiation ceremony, which marks the transition of young boys to manhood. This ceremony involves scarring the skin with sharp stones, a painful and symbolic rite of passage.

Throughout their journey in Papua New Guinea, Riku and Tunna also explore the country's natural wonders. They hike through the jungles of Mt. Wilhelm, the highest peak in Papua New Guinea, encountering exotic wildlife like tree kangaroos and paradise birds. They also travel to the island of New Ireland, where they learn about the art of shell money-making, meet with a local chief, and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Kavieng.

Throughout their travels, Riku and Tunna provide a lively and engaging perspective on the unique cultures and natural wonders of Papua New Guinea. From the elaborate rituals of the Huli Wigmen to the seafaring traditions of the Canoe Festival, this episode of Madventures is a breathtaking journey into one of the world's most fascinating and little-known corners.