Mt. Bosavi
Southern Highlands
Mount Bosavi is a prominent natural feature located in the Southern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea. It is the collapsed cone of an extinct volcano, forming a crater approximately 4 kilometers wide and 1 kilometer deep. This crater is part of the Great Papuan Plateau within the Kikori River basin and hosts a remarkable variety of endemic flora and fauna. The mountain and its surrounding areas are partly protected within the Sulamesi Wildlife Management Area, established in 2006, and it is included in the proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Kikori River Basin/Great Papuan Plateau. The indigenous communities living north of Mount Bosavi identify as Bosavi kalu, comprising culturally similar but linguistically distinct groups such as the Kaluli, Ologo, Walulu, and Wisesi. A significant scientific expedition in 2009 revealed over 40 new species, including frogs, fish, insects, spiders, a bat, and a notably large rat species, highlighting the mountain's exceptional ecological importance. Mount Bosavi remains a vital area for conservation and biological research due to its isolated ecosystem and the discovery of numerous previously unknown species.
Planifiez votre voyage en Papouasie-Nouvelle-Guinée avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visitors should plan their trip during the dry season for safer and easier access. Due to the remote location and sensitive environment, arranging guided tours with experienced local operators is recommended. Tickets or permits may be required for protected areas, and obtaining them in advance helps ensure a smooth visit. Respect for local cultures and environmental guidelines is essential to preserve this unique habitat.
Faits intéressants
- •The crater of Mount Bosavi is about 4 kilometers wide and 1 kilometer deep.
- •A 2009 expedition discovered over 40 previously undescribed species, including 16 new frog species and a giant rat measuring 82 cm in length.
- •Mount Bosavi is the type locality for Pseudohydromys pumehanae, a species of moss-mouse.
- •The mountain is part of the proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site Kikori River Basin/Great Papuan Plateau.
- •The indigenous Bosavi kalu people consist of four linguistically distinct groups: Kaluli, Ologo, Walulu, and Wisesi.
Histoire
Mount Bosavi is the remnant of an extinct volcano that collapsed to form a large crater, estimated to be several thousand years old.
The area has been inhabited by indigenous groups collectively known as Bosavi kalu, who maintain distinct linguistic identities despite cultural similarities.
The Sulamesi Wildlife Management Area was established in 2006 to protect the mountain's unique biodiversity.
In 2009, an international scientific expedition brought global attention to the site by discovering numerous new species, emphasizing its ecological value and prompting conservation efforts.