Bougainville: Panguna Mine – Orchids
While the history of the Panguna Mine is depressing and bloody, it’s absolutely amazing how the nature is taking back the open areas since the mine shut down in 1988. An astounding amount and variety of ground orchids are everywhere, I probably came across 7-8 different species in just under an hour of exploring the mine. One creamy-colored one was particular stunning with very elaborate and large flowers.
