Asaro Valley

The Asaro mudmen are among the most reproduced images from Papua New Guinea: figures covered in grey river clay wearing large helmet masks of dried clay with distorted features, elongated fingers of bamboo, moving slowly and silently. The tradition is explained locally as descending from an occasion when a defeated group returned covered in mud from the river and their opponents took them for spirits and fled. The villages around Komunive and Makehuku perform for visitors, arranged through Goroka operators, and the masks are made and sold locally. The valley itself is settled highland country of gardens and coffee, and the performance takes place in a village clearing.

What you actually see

• The mudmen - the clay-covered figures in their helmet masks.
• Mask making - the clay helmets built and fired in the villages.
• The village setting - the gardens and compounds of the valley.
• The performance - the slow silent movement the tradition is known for.

When to go

May to October in the drier season for the roads. Performances are arranged in advance through Goroka rather than encountered by chance. The Goroka Show in September brings mudmen groups into the showground.

Honest expectations

Performances are arranged for visitors and paid for, not spontaneous ceremony. Fees are negotiated and can be substantial. The roads into the valley are rough. Photography is expected and charged for.

Nearby

Goroka lies east; the Highlands Highway runs through the valley.