Ep 5. Papua New Guinea: Fire and Water

Departures follows two friends, Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach, as they leave their everyday lives behind to explore the world and push their limits. In the season 3 episode titled Papua New Guinea: Fire and Water, the duo embarks on a journey to the remote island of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea.

The episode begins with Scott and Justin arriving in the bustling port town of Buka on Bougainville Island. They are joined by their local guide, Samuel, who takes them on a four-day journey to explore the island's stunning landscapes and fascinating culture. They begin by visiting a local village where they witness the traditional welcome ceremony and meet the friendly locals who share stories about their history and way of life.

Scott, Justin, and Samuel then set off on a thrilling adventure to visit an active volcano, Mount Bagana. They travel through dense rainforests, across steep mountains, and even cross a raging river to reach their destination. With Samuel's help, they make their way up the rugged terrain and are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the smoldering volcano. The trio even managed to descend into the crater to witness the boiling lava up close.

After their exhilarating volcano adventure, Scott, Justin, and Samuel head to the coast to explore the many pristine beaches and hidden waterfalls that are scattered throughout the island. They go diving in the turquoise waters and discover a vibrant underwater world filled with colorful coral, schools of fish, and even a giant manta ray.

The episode then takes a turn as the trio visits some of the island's scarred sites, places that were ravaged by the brutal civil war that occurred in Bougainville from 1989 to 1998. They visit a destroyed copper mine and a remote village that was used as a hideout by rebels during the conflict. Scott and Justin learn about the devastating impact of the war and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the island and restore peace.

As the episode comes to a close, Scott, Justin, and Samuel reflect on their adventures and the incredible journey they have shared together. They leave the island with a newfound appreciation for the resilience and kindness of the people of Bougainville and the natural beauty that exists amidst the scars of conflict.

Papua New Guinea: Fire and Water is an episode that showcases the stunning beauty of the island while also shedding light on its tumultuous history. Viewers will be captivated by the adventurous spirit of Scott and Justin as they explore new territory and immerse themselves in new cultures. The episode is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the incredible power of nature to heal and inspire.