Deep in the highlands of Papua, straddling both the Indonesian province of West Papua and the independent nation of Papua New Guinea, lives one of the most fascinating indigenous groups in the world—the Dani Tribe. But let’s be honest: most people don’t hear about the Dani because of their rich history, warrior culture, or stunning terraced landscapes. No, they hear about them because of their rather eye-catching traditional attire.
Yes, the Dani Tribe is often referred to as the Penis Tribe due to their unique fashion statement—the koteka, or penis gourd. And before you ask—yes, they come in different sizes.
Who Are the Dani Tribe?
The Dani are one of the most well-known indigenous groups in Papua, with their territory spanning across both West Papua (Indonesia) and Papua New Guinea. They are famous for their warrior traditions, intricate farming techniques, and their striking way of dressing—or, more accurately, their lack of dressing.
For centuries, the Dani have lived in the remote highlands, practicing subsistence farming and engaging in occasional tribal warfare. Their villages are filled with traditional thatched-roof huts, and their diet consists mainly of sweet potatoes, pigs, and whatever else they can hunt or gather. While modernization has reached some parts of their homeland, many Dani people still live much as they have for generations—proudly wearing their kotekas.
The Famous Koteka: More Than Just a Fashion Statement
The koteka is the traditional penis gourd worn by Dani men, and yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a hollowed-out gourd used to cover their privates. While some may see it as a quirky or humorous relic of the past, for the Dani, the koteka is a symbol of masculinity, identity, and cultural pride.
And no, they’re not one-size-fits-all.
The length, shape, and angle of the koteka can vary greatly, and different styles can indicate status, tribal affiliation, or even personal preference. Some are short and practical, while others are long and curved at angles that make you wonder how they don’t knock things over when walking.
For formal occasions or festivals, Dani men will sometimes wear elaborate, multi-layered kotekas, often paired with body paint, feathers, and traditional jewelry. But on an average day, they keep things simple—just a koteka and a belt to keep it in place.
The Tourist Appeal: Yes, You Can Buy One
For many tourists visiting the Baliem Valley in West Papua or the highlands of Papua New Guinea, seeing the Dani in full traditional attire is one of the highlights of their trip. The image of fierce-looking warriors, decked out in body paint and wearing nothing but a penis gourd, is something you don’t forget in a hurry.
And, of course, many visitors can’t resist taking home a koteka souvenir.
Local markets and craft shops sell a variety of penis gourds, ranging from small, travel-friendly versions to comically oversized ones that seem designed purely to test airport security’s sense of humor. Some are decorated with intricate carvings, while others are left in their natural form.
If you’re thinking of buying one, just remember: wearing a koteka back home is probably not socially acceptable. But as a conversation starter on your shelf? Priceless.
The Dani in Modern Times
While many Dani still embrace their traditional way of life, modernization is creeping in. In Indonesian-controlled West Papua, the government has encouraged people to adopt Western clothing, even running “anti-koteka” campaigns to get Dani men to wear pants. Some have resisted, while others have adapted, often switching between modern and traditional clothing depending on the situation.
In Papua New Guinea, where indigenous traditions are more openly celebrated, the Dani (and their kotekas) are still proudly on display, particularly during festivals like the Mount Hagen Show or the Goroka Festival.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just the Penis Tribe
While it’s easy to focus on the Dani Tribe’s most visually striking feature—the koteka—there’s much more to their culture than just their choice of attire. They are a people with a rich history, fascinating traditions, and an unbreakable connection to their land.
That said, if you ever find yourself in the highlands of Papua, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your visit marveling at just how impressively varied those penis gourds really are.
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