The Sepik Crocodile Festival

The Sepik Crocodile Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Papua New Guinea. This celebration takes place in Abunti, on the banks of the Sepik River, in northern PNG. It pays homage to the revered saltwater and freshwater crocodiles that live in these seas. Crocs have such a strong cultural significance in the Sepik region that one of the coming-of-age initiations in these tribes is to cut the skin on their back to imitate a crocodile.

Men and crocodiles have a special affinity. The crocodile represents men, strength, and power. Many people have scars from the initiation process. From shoulder to hip, there are scars. The Sepik Crocodile Festival, held in August, honors the ancient animals' cultural customs, beliefs, and stories through canoe racing and dramatic shows.

When: in August

Where: Ambunti, East Sepik Region