Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea: general info for travelers

Papua New Guinea is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It stands out for its vast cultural diversity, with over 800 different tribes speaking more than 800 languages. Papua New Guinea is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including tropical forests, coral reefs, and active volcanoes. The country has a rich history, with archaeological evidence showing human presence for at least 60,000 years. Today, Papua New Guinea's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, fishing, and mining. Port Moresby is the capital city, and English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu are the official languages. While the country has significant challenges, such as high poverty rates and poor infrastructure, it offers a unique and fascinating travel experience for those willing to explore its diverse culture and natural wonders.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Papua New Guinea, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Papua New Guinea: places to visit

1. Port Moresby: As the capital city of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby is a bustling metropolis with a range of museums, markets, and cultural attractions. Some of the highlights include the National Museum and Art Gallery, the PNG Parliament House, the Nature Park, and the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk.
2. Kokoda Track: This is a famous trekking route that runs through the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea, from Port Moresby to Kokoda. The track is steeped in history, as it was the site of a major World War II battle between the Japanese and Australian armies.
3. Madang: Located on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea, Madang is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The town is situated near a number of coral reefs and shipwrecks, and there are several reputable dive operators in the area.
4. Sepik River: The Sepik River is the longest river in Papua New Guinea and is famous for its traditional village communities, intricate carvings and masks, and stunning scenery. Visitors can take a canoe tour along the river to observe local daily life and learn about the culture of the indigenous people.
5. Rabaul: Rabaul is a town on the island of New Britain in Papua New Guinea, which is surrounded by six active and dormant volcanoes. Visitors can explore the Tavurvur and Vulcan volcanic cones, snorkel in the surrounding waters, or visit the War Museum and Cultural Centre.
6. Tari: Tari is a small town in the Southern Highlands of Papua New Guinea and is home to the Huli people - famous for their traditional dress, elaborate wigs, and unique customs. Visitors can observe the local lifestyle, learn about their beliefs and participate in cultural festivals.
7. Mount Wilhelm: Mount Wilhelm is the highest mountain in Papua New Guinea, and the peak offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is located in the highlands of Papua New Guinea and visitors can hike to the summit or explore the surrounding wilderness.
These are just a few of the many destinations to explore in Papua New Guinea. The country is home to a rich cultural heritage, extensive wildlife, and diverse natural beauty.
There is more to see and do in Papua New Guinea: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Papua New Guinea: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Papua New Guinea, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Papua New Guinea has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures that remain consistent throughout the year, with average temperatures of around 25°C (77°F). The country experiences two seasons: the wet season (November to April) and the dry season (May to October). The wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional tropical storms and cyclones. The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Papua New Guinea. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and wildlife watching. Overall, the best months to visit Papua New Guinea are between May and October. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific weather conditions in the area you plan to visit, as they can vary significantly between regions.

Papua New Guinea: activities and what to do

Papua New Guinea is a destination for adventure lovers. Here are some activities and sports you can do on holiday in Papua New Guinea: 1. Scuba diving: There are many options for scuba diving in Papua New Guinea as it is a hotspot for marine biodiversity.
2. Cultural tours: Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 different languages, and cultural tours are a great way to experience the unique customs and traditions of the various tribes.
3. Trekking: Trekking through the lush rainforests of Papua New Guinea is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts. The Kokoda Track is a famous trail that runs through the Owen Stanley Range.
4. Surfing: Papua New Guinea has some of the best waves in the world, attracting surfers from all over.
5. Whitewater rafting: Paddle down some of the wildest and most beautiful rivers of Papua New Guinea for an unforgettable experience.
6. Fishing: With miles of coastline and rivers, Papua New Guinea is perfect for fishing enthusiasts.
7. Wildlife watching: Papua New Guinea is home to a remarkable range of wildlife, such as exotic birds including the Birds of Paradise, tree kangaroos, and crocodiles.
8. Island hopping: With over 600 islands, Papua New Guinea is perfect for exploring and island hopping.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports you can do on holiday in Papua New Guinea. There's something for everyone!

Papua New Guinea: few words on history and culture

Papua New Guinea is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, and is known for its diverse culture and landscape. The country has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 40,000 years ago. Papua New Guinea was colonized by the British and Germans in the 19th century, and gained independence from Australia in 1975.
The culture of Papua New Guinea is extremely diverse, with over 1,000 distinct indigenous groups each with their own language and customs. The traditional way of life is still very much intact in many parts of the country, with many communities living in isolated villages and practicing subsistence farming.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Papua New Guinea's culture is its art, including intricate carvings, body adornment, and unique dance and music. The country also has a rich oral storytelling tradition, which has helped to pass down knowledge and cultural practices from generation to generation.
Overall, Papua New Guinea is a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture, with many opportunities to learn about the diverse traditions and way of life of its people.

Papua New Guinea: how to move around on holiday

The best way to reach Papua New Guinea would be by air, as there are direct flights available from major cities such as Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney, Singapore, and Manila. The country's main international airport is Jacksons International Airport, located in the capital city of Port Moresby.
Once you arrive in Papua New Guinea, the most common means of transportation is by road and air. There are domestic flights available to many destinations within the country, as well as a well-developed road network that connects major towns and cities. However, it's important to note that many rural areas have limited transportation infrastructure and may require more specialized means of travel.
In terms of getting around and visiting attractions, organized tours and private cars with drivers are popular options. Public transportation such as buses and taxis are available in urban areas as well. It's important to do research and plan accordingly, as some areas may not have reliable transportation options. To hire a car to visit Papua New Guinea, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Papua New Guinea: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Papua New Guinea with a full stomach:D
Papua New Guinea is a country with a diverse cuisine heavily influenced by the region's terrain, climate, and cultural traditions. Below are some of the typical foods of Papua New Guinea: 1. Taru – A starchy root vegetable that is similar to taro. It is mashed and made into puddings or savory dishes.
2. Saksak – A traditional dish made from grated sago palm pith and coconut milk. It is often served with fish or meat.
3. Mumu – A traditional cooking method, where meat, vegetables, and sometimes rice or noodles are cooked in a pit oven using hot stones and banana leaves as a cover.
4. Kokoda – A dish made from raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream. It is served as a salad with diced vegetables.
5. Laplap – A dish made from grated root vegetables such as taro or cassava, mixed with coconut cream and sometimes meat or fish, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
6. Biryani – A spicy rice dish made with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices.
7. Roast Pork – Roast pork is a popular dish served during celebrations and festivals. The pork is roasted over an open flame and served with vegetables and rice.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can find in Papua New Guinea. They are flavorsome and will give you a taste of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Papua New Guinea: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Papua New Guinea can be quite expensive for tourists due to its relatively underdeveloped tourist infrastructure and high costs of transportation and accommodation. Additionally, many activities and tours can also be expensive.
However, there are ways to travel to Papua New Guinea on a budget. For example, it's possible to stay in guesthouses or backpacker hostels instead of high-end hotels, eat local food from markets, and take public transportation to get around. It's also important to research and plan your trip in advance to avoid unexpected costs.

Papua New Guinea: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodations in Papua New Guinea, such as: 1. Online travel booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia where you can search for hotels, resorts, and other accommodations based on location, price range, and available amenities.
2. Local travel agencies or tour operators that can help arrange and book accommodations for you.
3. Papua New Guinea's official tourism website that provides information on various accommodations in different parts of the country, including hotels, guesthouses, lodges, and resorts.
4. Hostels and budget accommodations that cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers, which you can find through online platforms such as Hostelworld and Hostelbookers or by simply asking locals for recommendations.
Overall, it's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
You can check hotel prices in Papua New Guinea here:
Booking.com

Papua New Guinea: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Papua New Guinea receives approximately 200,000 tourists annually. The peak tourist season in Papua New Guinea runs from June to September, coinciding with the dry season when the weather is better for outdoor activities. During this time, there may be higher numbers of visitors, but Papua New Guinea is not typically known for being overcrowded with tourists. However, it's important to note that the COVID-19 pandemic may have an impact on tourism levels and travel restrictions may be in place.
Papua New Guinea is considered to be a challenging destination for tourists, with high levels of violent crime and street crime. Areas to be avoided include the capital of Port Moresby, where there is a high risk of armed robbery, carjacking, and assault. Other areas that should be avoided include certain parts of the highlands region, where there is ethnic and tribal conflict, and some parts of the Kokoda Track, where there have been reports of attacks on hikers. It is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times, and to travel with an experienced tour operator or guide if possible.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Papua New Guinea on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Papua New Guinea: events for tourists

Papua New Guinea offers a unique cultural experience for tourists. Some of the most interesting events that you can attend in Papua New Guinea are: 1. Goroka Show: This event held in September every year offers a colorful and dynamic showcase of the tribal cultures in Papua New Guinea. You can witness traditional dances, songs, and costumes during this event.
2. Hiri Moale Festival: Celebrated in Port Moresby every year in September, this festival pays tribute to the ancient seafaring trade routes.
3. Mt. Hagen Cultural Show: This festival held in August every year is a celebration of cultural diversity in the Highlands region of Papua New Guinea through traditional dances, songs, and costumes.
4. Sepik Crocodile Festival: This event held in August every year in East Sepik Province showcases the importance of crocodiles in local culture, with traditional dances, music, and artwork.
5. Independence Day Celebrations: Papua New Guinea celebrates its independence on September 16th every year with colorful parades and cultural performances.
These events provide an excellent opportunity to experience the cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea and learn more about the local tribes and their way of life.

Papua New Guinea: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Papua New Guinea, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Papua New Guinea: Day 1-3: Arrive in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Spend a couple of days exploring the city's cultural attractions, such as the National Museum and Art Gallery of PNG, Parliament Haus, and the Port Moresby Nature Park.
Day 4-5: Head to Madang, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and traditional culture. Spend the day exploring the scenic beauty of the town, visit the Madang Lighthouse and Balek Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 6-7: From Madang, take a flight to Mount Hagen, a beautiful town nestled in the Western Highlands. Here, you can meet the locals, learn about the traditional culture, go hiking, and see stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Day 8-10: Explore the Sepik River, the longest river system in Papua New Guinea - take a boat tour, visit remote villages, and see the unique culture of the Sepik people. You can also go fishing and explore the rainforest that surrounds the river.
Day 11-12: Visit the Kokoda Trail, a historical site that stretches over 60 miles of steep mountain ridges and deep gorges. You can hike the trail, led by a local guide, to learn about the WWII history of the area.
Day 13-14: Finish your trip in the Milne Bay Province and explore the beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Experience the locals life and the traditional culture on a cultural tour, Snorkeling, diving, sunbathing, and kayaking are all on the menu.
This itinerary will give tourists the opportunity to see the best of Papua New Guinea's cultural and natural attractions. Please note, Papua New Guinea is home to many indigenous people and cultures, so it is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions while traveling.

Papua New Guinea: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Papua New Guinea described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aitape is a coastal town located in the northern part of Papua New Guinea, in the province of Sandaun. It is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and World War II historical sites. Agricultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aitape
- Alotau is the capital of Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea. It is located on the eastern half of Papua New Guinea's mainland and is the gateway to some of the country's most beautiful natural att... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alotau
- Ambunti is a small town located in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the Ambunti River and is known for its annual crocodile festival, where tribes in the region showcase ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ambunti
- Arawa is a town located in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the eastern coast of the island and was once a major center for copper mining. The town has a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arawa
- Bulolo is a town located in the Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country and is known for its gold mining industry. The town has a population of arou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bulolo
- Daru is a small town located in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated on an island in the Fly River Delta and is accessible only by boat or plane. The town has a population of appro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daru
- Finschhafen is a small coastal town in Papua New Guinea, located in the Morobe Province. It lies on the eastern tip of the Huon Peninsula, and it is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and towering... CONTINUE here for a trip to Finschhafen
- Goroka is a town located in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea. It is famous for its annual Goroka Show, a cultural festival held in September that showcases the traditional arts and c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Goroka
- Kainantu is a town in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. It is located in the central highlands of the country, at an altitude of around 1,400 meters above sea level. The town has a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kainantu
- Kandrian is a town located in the West New Britain Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the north coast of the island and has a population of approximately 3,000 people. The town is mainly ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kandrian
- Kavieng is the capital town of the New Ireland Province in Papua New Guinea. The town is located on the northern tip of the New Ireland island and it's known for its beautiful beaches, reefs, and divi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kavieng
- Kerema is a small town located in the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the coast and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. The town has a population of around 8... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kerema
- Kieta is a town located on the eastern coast of the island of Bougainville, in Papua New Guinea. It serves as the capital of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The town has a population of around ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kieta
- Kikori is a small town located in the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea. It has a population of around 5,000 people and is situated on the Kikori River. The town is surrounded by dense forests, which ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kikori
- Kimbe is a town located on the island of New Britain in Papua New Guinea. It is the capital of West New Britain Province and serves as an important commercial center for the region. Kimbe is famous fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kimbe
- Kokopo is a town in East New Britain province of Papua New Guinea. It is the capital of the province and is located on the northeastern coast of the island of New Britain. Kokopo is known for its stun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kokopo
- Kundiawa is a town located in the Chimbu Province of Papua New Guinea. It serves as the provincial capital and has a population of approximately 13,000 people. The town is situated in the highlands, w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kundiawa
- 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 ci... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lae
- Lihir is a large island in Papua New Guinea, located in the Bismarck Archipelago. It is part of the New Ireland Province and has a population of around 16,000 people. The island is known for its gold ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lihir
- Lorengau is a town located on the northeastern coast of Manus Island, which is part of Papua New Guinea. It has a population of around 5,000 people and serves as the capital of Manus Province. The tow... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lorengau
- Madang is a coastal town located in the northern region of Papua New Guinea, an island country in Oceania. It is the capital of Madang Province and has a population of approximately 30,000 inhabitants... CONTINUE here for a trip to Madang
- Mendi is a town in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. It is located in the central part of the province, with a population of around 26,000 people. The town is situated at an altitud... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mendi
- Mount Hagen is a city located in the Western Highland Province of Papua New Guinea. It is the third-largest city in the country with a population of approximately 46,000 people. Mount Hagen is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mount Hagen
- Popondetta is a town located in the Oro Province of Papua New Guinea. It has a population of approximately 30,000 people and is situated near the foothills of the Owen Stanley mountain range. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Popondetta
- Port Moresby is the capital city of Papua New Guinea, located on the southeastern coast of the country. It has a population of approximately 500,000 people and is the major gateway to the rest of Papu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Port Moresby
- Rabaul is a town on the eastern end of New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea. It is situated within a caldera of an active volcano, which last erupted in 1994. Rabaul was once the capital of Papua Ne... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rabaul
- Tabubil is a town located in the Western Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated in the Star Mountains and is the largest town in the province. The town was built around a mining site that extrac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tabubil
- Tari is a small town located in the Southern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated at an altitude of around 1,500 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 8,000 pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tari
- Vanimo is a town located in the Sandaun Province of Papua New Guinea, situated on the northwest coast of the island. It is the largest and the most populous town in Sandaun Province, with a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vanimo
- Wabag is a small town located in the Enga Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated in the highlands of the country, at an elevation of around 2,000 meters above sea level. Wabag is the capital of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wabag
- Wapenamanda is a town located in the Enga Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated in the highlands of the country, approximately 2,000 meters above sea level. The town is known for its picturesqu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wapenamanda
- Wau is a small town located in the Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. The town has a population of around 5,000 people and is situated in the highlands of the country. It was once a major gold minin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wau
- Wewak is a town located in the East Sepik Province of Papua New Guinea. It is situated on the northern coast of the mainland, bordering the Bismarck Sea. The town has a population of approximately 26,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wewak


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