Papua New Guinea

The two fearless Finns are in Papua New Guinea, one of the least explored countries in the world and home to over 800 small tribes – some of whom were completely unknown to the outside world until a few decades ago. Now, lucrative logging businesses regularly clash with the indigenous people in Papua’s vast jungles. Riku and Tunna meet up with their local guide Sam, a retired army officer. Their plan is to fly with Sam to Menyamya, then hike into the heart of the Kukukuku tribal territory. “Expect the unexpected,” Sam warns. The pair take a plane to the Menyamya jungle airstrip, then take a two-day expedition into the forest with Sam and several porters. “There’s rocky terrain, cold rivers and impenetrable vegetation as well,” Riku says. The group have to sleep in a mosquito-ridden part of the jungle on their first night out, but have an invigorating wash in a waterfall the next morning. On the second day of their trek, the team makes a grim and shocking discovery. Located on a rocky outcrop is a row of decomposing bodies, propped up in a sitting position. Sam explains that these are ceremonially mummified Kukukuku warriors. Soon after, they spot a woman on a mountain path who beats a hasty retreat back to her village. Sam is uneasy, and warns the duo of impending danger. “It is most likely we will be attacked, please take extra precautions,” he tells them.