Lae - Discovering Papua New Guinea

Travelling to Lae

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lae, a pretty good destination in Papua New Guinea (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lae and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lae, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Papua New Guinea, here's everything to know about Lae for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lae

Lae is the second-largest city in Papua New Guinea, situated on the northern coast of the mainland. It is the capital of Morobe Province and is a commercial, industrial, and transportation hub. The city has a diverse population of around 100,000 people and is home to one of the largest ports in the South Pacific, which serves as a major transport center for the country. Lae also has an international airport and is a gateway to many of Papua New Guinea's popular tourist destinations. The city has a tropical climate with a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. While Lae is an important economic center, it is also known for its cultural and natural attractions, including the iconic Botanic Garden, the War Cemetery, and the nearby Rainforest Habitat.

What to visit in Lae

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Lae, Papua New Guinea, along with some information about each: 1. Lae Botanic Gardens: This large garden features a variety of tropical flora and fauna. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or learn about the local plants and animals.
2. Lae War Cemetery: This is the largest war cemetery in the country, with over 2,000 graves of soldiers who died in World War II. It's a somber but interesting place to visit for history buffs.
3. Rainforest Habitat & Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary features a variety of bird species, including parrots, toucans, and birds of paradise. It's a great place to learn about Papua New Guinea's rich biodiversity.
4. Morobe Province Museum: This museum houses a collection of cultural artifacts, including traditional art, tools, and weapons. It's a great place to learn about Papua New Guinea's diverse cultures.
5. Salamaua Beach: This pristine white sand beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. It's also a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
6. Bumbu River: This river is great for kayaking and boating. It's surrounded by lush green forests and is a great place to spot wildlife like crocodiles and birds.
7. Eriku Lake: This small lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It's surrounded by beautiful scenery and is a great place to unwind.
8. Rainforest Park: This park features hiking trails through lush rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife like kangaroos and birds. It's a great place for nature lovers.
9. Lae Yacht Club: This club offers sailing, boating, and fishing opportunities. It's a great place to enjoy the water and meet locals.
10. Lae markets: Lae has several bustling markets where you can purchase local handicrafts, fresh produce, and other goods. They are a great place to experience the local culture and chat with friendly vendors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Papua New Guinea, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Lae.

When to go on holiday to Lae

The best time to visit Lae in Papua New Guinea is during the dry season, which lasts from May to October. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and swimming in the sea. The temperature is also more bearable during the dry season, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C. However, do keep in mind that Lae experiences high humidity throughout the year, so it may still feel quite warm and sticky. It is also worth noting that Lae can still receive rain during the dry season, so it's best to pack some waterproof gear just in case.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lae

There are a few ways to get to Lae, Papua New Guinea depending on where you are coming from: 1. By Air: the easiest way to get to Lae is to fly into Nadzab Airport, which is located about 42 kilometers outside the city of Lae. There are several airlines that operate flights to Nadzab Airport, including Air Niugini, Qantas, and Virgin Australia.
2. By Road: If you are already in Papua New Guinea, you can drive to Lae from other cities like Port Moresby. The road between Port Moresby and Lae is paved and you can use a 2-wheel drive car. It takes around 6-8 hours to drive, depending on traffic.
3. By Sea: It is possible to travel to Lae by boat from other parts of Papua New Guinea or the surrounding islands. However, this is not a common option and may not be very reliable or efficient.
Keep in mind that Papua New Guinea is a remote and relatively undeveloped country, so transportation options may be limited and travel can be challenging. It is recommended to plan your trip carefully and arrange transportation in advance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lae, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lae

Here are some typical foods of Lae in Papua New Guinea and their descriptions: 1. Mumu - a traditional cooking method where various meats are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked on hot rocks or in an underground oven 2. Sago - a starchy staple food made from the pith of the sago palm tree and can be prepared as a porridge, pancakes, or dumplings 3. Laplap - a dish made with grated taro or yam, mixed with coconut cream and cooked in banana leaves 4. Kokoda - a dish made of raw fish marinated in lemon or lime juice and mixed with coconut cream, sliced onions, chilies, and diced tomatoes 5. Grilled Seafood - fresh seafood such as fish, prawns, and octopus are grilled over an open flame, often seasoned with spices and herbs before being served 6. Vanapa - a dish made with cassava, marinated in coconut cream and wrapped in banana leaves before being steamed 7. Sweet potato and pumpkin - both are popular vegetables used as side dishes or in soups 8. Chicken Curry - a spicy curry made with chicken, coconut milk, and a blend of local spices.
9. Pitpit - a vegetable side dish made from the flower or stems of the mountain taro, boiled and served with salt or mixed with coconut milk. 10. Green Vegetables - local greens such as pak choi, spinach, and kale are often incorporated into dishes or served as a side.
You can find general info about typical foods in Papua New Guinea here.

Is Lae an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations, Lae, Papua New Guinea can be considered relatively expensive for tourists. The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is generally high, and Lae is no exception. Prices of accommodation, food, and transportation are higher than many other Southeast Asian destinations.
However, it is still possible to travel to Lae on a budget by finding affordable accommodation and local food options, and by using public transportation instead of private tours. It may be useful to research the local costs and plan accordingly to avoid overspending.

Where to find accomodation in Lae

Lae is a city located in Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. There are several areas where visitors can find accommodation in Lae, including: 1. Eriku: This is a popular area for tourists as it has several hotels, motels, and guesthouses, and it is centrally located in the city.
2. Top Town: This area is located on a hill and offers scenic views of the city. It has several hotels and motels, but it is a bit farther away from the city center.
3. Chinatown: This area is located in the heart of the city and has several budget-friendly accommodations for visitors.
4. Airways: This area is located near the airport and has several hotels and motels for visitors who need a place to stay before or after their flights.
It is recommended to check the online reviews and ratings of the accommodations in these areas and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Lae here:
Booking.com

Is Lae a safe destination for tourists?

Lae, Papua New Guinea has a higher crime rate compared to other cities in the country, so it is important for tourists to take precautionary measures. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid carrying valuables with you. It is also recommended to use a reputable tour guide or travel agency to ensure safety while exploring the city. Overall, it is still possible to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Lae if precautions are taken.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Papua New Guinea here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lae.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lae the most?

Lae, Papua New Guinea offers various activities that cater to different types of travelers. However, due to the limited tourist infrastructure and high crime rates, it may not be the best destination for families with young children.
Adventurous travelers, especially those who love the outdoors and exploring new places will enjoy Lae the most. Lae has beautiful mountains and rivers, which are ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and fishing. Couples who enjoy spending time in nature, discovering new cultures, and embracing local traditions will also find Lae to be a fascinating destination.
Young people looking for fun will find the nightlife in Lae to be vibrant, and the local music scene is refreshing. However, it's important to keep in mind that some areas can be dangerous, and travelers should take extra precautions when visiting at night.
Therefore, Lae may not be the best destination for families traveling with young children. Instead, couples and adventurous travelers will find Lae to be a unique and exciting destination to explore.

How to get around Lae

The most common form of transportation in Lae, Papua New Guinea is taxis. However, minibusses, called PMVs (public motor vehicles), also operate on set routes and offer a more budget-friendly option. It is important to use licensed taxis or PMVs and negotiate fares in advance. Walking is also a reasonable option for short distances.

What to see around Lae

Certainly! Here are some popular day trip options from Lae, Papua New Guinea: 1. Rainforest Habitat: A popular nature reserve among locals and tourists alike, located about 20km south of Lae.
2. Malahang Beach: A beautiful and secluded beach located about 10km northeast of Lae, perfect for a relaxing day with friends and family.
3. Gabensis Village: A traditional village located about 30 minutes from Lae, offering visitors an authentic experience of Papua New Guinean culture and lifestyle.
4. Bulldog Track: A historic trail located in the mountains near Salamaua, which was a major battleground during WWII. Visitors can hike the trail and explore relics from the war.
5. Siassi Islands: A scenic group of islands located about 200km northeast of Lae, offering world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities.
6. Wau Ecology Institute: A research and education center located in the historic gold-mining town of Wau, about 140km northwest of Lae.
Please note that some of these destinations may require a bit of travel time, and it's always a good idea to check local conditions and safety recommendations before embarking on a day trip.
For every travel information about Papua New Guinea you can click here.

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