The Sepik Crocodile Festival

This celebration takes place in Abunti, on the banks of the Sepik River, in northern Papua New Guinea. 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 backs to mimic a crocodile.

The cultural traditions, beliefs and legends based on these ancient animals are celebrated in the Sepik Crocodile Festival in August every year with canoe racing and spectacular performances. Sepik River clans are known for their spiritual and artistic association with the crocodile spirit.

Besides meeting male initiates who have undergone crocodile skin scarification the festival’s sing-sings involve participants adorned with vivid body painting and wearing crocodile teeth necklaces, cassowary feathers, and grass skirts. Wonderful souvenirs and carvings are sold from traditional Tambaran spirit houses and watch out for live (baby) crocodiles strapped to performers' chests.

When: August
Where: Ambunti, East Sepik Region, Guinea