Bushwalking in PNG: Mt Diamond waterfall
One of the most popular walks in Port Moresby. Easy and mainly flat, with small creek crossings, green grassland, pleasant shade of the forest and beautiful Mt Diamond waterfall with its refreshingly cold water.
Bushwalking around Port Moresby
Arriving early Sunday morning at the Royal Papua Yacht Club, we are surprised to discover a large crowd. About thirty intrepid walkers are ready for an adventure. It seems that this bushwalk is very popular!
The objective is to reach Mt Diamond waterfall and to have a swim prior to returning to Port Moresby.
Our walk starts from Mt Diamond School. The walk is easy and flat. We cross a small creek before going through green grassland.
Soon, the grass becomes taller and taller, and the sun hotter and hotter.
After another creek crossing, we find ourselves walking uphill on a gentle slope.
But not long after we are already walking in a pleasant shade of the forest until we reach Mt Diamond waterfall.
The water is refreshingly cold, and the place is beautiful. We wish we could have stayed longer but rules are rules, and we have to remain with the group. After sometime at the waterfall we return to the starting point.
Practical Information
How to organise the walk: The walk starts from Mt Diamond School, located about 40 min drive from Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea.
Port Moresby Bushwalkers Group, run by volunteers, organises different walks around Port Moresby every second Sunday. The meeting is at 7.20am (sharp) at the Yacht Club visitors’ car park. There is no membership fee but the PGK20 fee per walk is required to cover the cost of security escort and compensation for landowners.
To find out the planned walking routes, check Port Moresby Bushwalkers Facebook page or become their member and receive their newsletters by writing them an email.
Timing: Walk is about 1.5 h (about 40 min each way).
Difficulty: Walk is rated “medium”, however, it’s rather an easy walk, mainly on a flat surface.
IMPORTANT: Even if you are an experienced hiker, given the scorching sun and extreme heat conditions in Port Moresby, some acclimatisation prior to undertaking the walk is definitely a good idea. Bring sunscreen, snacks and a minimum of 2-3L of water (heavy to carry but you will be glad you did).
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