Ambua Lodge

Ambua Lodge offers an inspired mixture of local architecture, spectacular views and modest luxury. It was the recipient of the 1991 Pacific Asia Travel Association`s Pacific Heritage Award which stated that Ambua Lodge is "a superb example of culturally sensitive and ecologically responsible tourism."

The lodge is located at 7,000 feet in the Tari Gap area in the southern highlands, bordering on pristine mid-montane rainforest and in the beginning of the valley grasslands. This location promises the visitor the eternal spring weather and magnificent views of the Tari Valley.

The forest canopy, a dense mass of interlocking tree tops of all shades of green and the occasional bright splash of color, provides a natural setting and an exhilarating climate for venturing along the nature trails.

Cross traditional vine bridges where you will discover secluded waterfalls, view the timid tree kangaroo, and spot high altitude orchids and rhododendrons. Take advantage of the birding in the Tari Gap area where one may chance to observe up to ten species of bird of paradise.

The Huli Wigmen of the Tari Valley have formed a strong bond between themselves and these beautiful birds. Men revere the birds by imitating them in both daily and ceremonial lives, decorating their human hair wigs with the plumage of only the most beautiful birds. Tari is one of the few places left where men and women can be seen wearing traditional dress as part of daily living and men`s wealth is still counted by the number of pigs and wives they possess.

Ambua Lodge features highlands architecture with a main building housing a lounge, bar, dining room, and a cozy center fireplace. Separate are a video room, heated spa, and a sauna. Guests are accommodated in forty individual units set in a sea of local flowers. Each unit features 90-degree picture windows, a modern bath, and electric blankets and continental quilts for the cool highland evenings. The lodge generates electricity from its own mini hydro-electric power plant.