Balek Wildlife Sanctuary

20th June 2016

Papua New Guinea never ceases to amaze and captivate all who choose to explore her beautiful, stunning natural wonders. And just when you think you have discovered nirvana among the myriad of jungles, oceans and mountains, the journey continues to the Balek Wildlife Sanctuary. This modern day garden of Eden was found to be so enchanting that it was used in the 1996 film, Robinson Crusoe, starring the prince of action adventure films, Pierce Brosnan. If the idea that Mr Brosnan has lived and breathed among the wildlife sanctuary isn’t enough to draw you to this infamous nook beneath the Balek range, then let Mother Nature herself entice you instead.

The Balek Wildlife Sanctuary is like stepping into someone’s secret garden. It boasts a protected oasis, maintained by the landowners, with a charming creek as its centrepiece. The sulphur creek waters flow from a cave at the base of a huge limestone formation. It is also commonly known as Smelwara or ‘Smelly River’ due to its sulphur content. However, it is assured that the smell is very subtle compared to volcanic springs where the sulphur is very strong.

The water in the creek gleams an unearthly, crystal clear blue that looks more like a glass sheet covering the riverbed. Hiding in the creek are turtles and eels that your guide will lure out with bananas and fresh meat. You can also have a go at feeding them and be given the opportunity to get up close to these curious creatures.

Venture into the cave from where the water bubbles and you will feel like you are stepping into an enchanted fairy tale. A white sparkling crust glistens and sparkles on top of the rocks and water, and soft green moss creeps up the cave walls. Children love it here too. Their imagination will run wild as they explore the caves, skip across stone bridges or sit on the banks of the creek in true Robinson Crusoe style.

There is an abundance of lush greenery and magnificent displays of Birds Of Paradise plants to admire. Cheeky Hornbill birds with their long movie star lashes and proud beak crests roam the sanctuary and are even kept as pets by some of the locals who care for them with sweet tenderness. Balek Wildlife Sanctuary has a small fee of K5 to enter and is only 10Km south of Madang so there are many places to stay close by. You will need a reliable car and guide to get you to the sanctuary but at Paga Hill Estate we believe it’s well worth the trip. Stop by on your way to another expedition or linger a while longer. Picnic in a place that others can only dream of or perhaps sit and gaze at your surroundings and take a moment to feel deep gratitude for finding a corner of the world that is so still, quiet and preserved of its natural beauty.

Paga Hill Estate is a world class master planned estate in the heart of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The waterfront site is the first comprehensively planned multi-use development in Papua New Guinea to be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. The all-inclusive development will include vibrant public spaces and waterfront promenade, luxury hotels, residential apartments, restaurants, retail, commercial space, a Trade, Exhibition & Cultural Centre, restoration of WWII relics, marina precinct and a nearby international cruise liner terminal.