Papua New Guinea

The Land of Tribes
and Treasures

Flag of Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea, located in the southwestern Pacific, is known for its incredible cultural diversity, rugged landscapes, and vibrant traditions. With over 800 indigenous languages, its culture is one of the most diverse in the world, celebrated through unique tribal customs, colorful festivals, and traditional art.

The country’s landscapes range from dense rainforests and towering mountains to coral reefs and coastal islands, ideal for trekking, diving, and exploring. Local cuisine often features root vegetables, tropical fruits, and fresh seafood. Papua New Guinea is a land of adventure, offering an unparalleled blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Travel Documents

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Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-PNG citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Papua New Guinea.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Papua New Guinea.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from certain Pacific nations (e.g., Fiji, Solomon Islands) can enter PNG with a valid passport and stay for up to 60 days without a visa. Most other nations (e.g., Australia, US, UK, EU) receive a 60-day visa on arrival (VOA).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not eligible for VOA must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Papua New Guinea.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Australian visas (previously used in Australia) do not receive automatic exemptions but may use these to support visa applications.
    • No automatic entry provisions exist for Schengen, US, or UK visa/residence permit holders unless specified by bilateral agreements.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Papua New Guinea using only a national ID card; a valid passport is mandatory for all.

Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa: Allows entry and stay for 60 days (extendable with approval). Can be single-entry via VOA or pre-arranged, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 60 days (e.g., work or residency). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-on-arrival stays are typically limited to 60 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; pre-arranged visas are required.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.pg/.
Toll

Driving in Papua New Guinea

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, there are no toll roads in Papua New Guinea; roads are publicly funded and free to use.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, visit the PNG Department of Works: https://www.works.gov.pg/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Papua New Guinea

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants where fitted (many older vehicles lack them).
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 60 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (limited highways exist)
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, which are often unpaved, narrow, or affected by weather and landslides.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; short-term visitors can use a valid foreign license for up to 6 months.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: PNG has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions at https://www.works.gov.pg/.
  • Road Safety: Driving standards are basic; remain vigilant for potholes, bandits, and poor visibility, especially at night or in remote areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable outside urban centers; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 111 for emergencies (limited coverage outside cities).

Useful Links

Papua New Guinea Currency

The official currency of Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 PGK
  • Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 toea; 1 PGK (100 toea = 1 kina)
  • Symbol: K

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks (e.g., BSP, ANZ), airports (Port Moresby), and major hotels.
  • ATMs available in urban areas (e.g., Port Moresby, Lae) for direct PGK withdrawals; scarce in rural regions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Papua New Guinea website: https://www.bankpng.gov.pg/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Papua New Guinea

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Papua New Guinea, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may lead to fines or arrest.
    • Smoking banned in some indoor public spaces (e.g., government buildings).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect tribal customs (e.g., avoid entering villages without permission, dress modestly).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal; public displays of affection can lead to legal issues and social backlash.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or government buildings; ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in tribal areas.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L of spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over 20,000 PGK (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., bird-of-paradise feathers).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; tribal ownership may restrict some areas.

Key Resources

Papua New Guinea Travel Safety

Papua New Guinea has areas that are safe for travelers, but crime rates and regional risks require caution. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in PNG.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like Port Moresby markets; violent crime (e.g., carjacking) occurs in urban and remote areas.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Exercise caution; locals are often hospitable, but avoid isolated areas and travel with guides in rural regions.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to poor roads, aggressive drivers, and banditry.
    • Avoid night driving outside cities.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory where available.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled or boiled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid, malaria prophylaxis (for rural areas).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for malaria, dengue, and Zika (prevalent in lowland areas).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Highlands); ascend gradually.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Port Moresby General Hospital offers basic care; rural areas lack advanced facilities.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; carry essential medications for remote travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for rural areas.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 111 (works in some areas; limited outside cities).
  • Ambulance: 111 | Fire: 110 | Police: 112 or 000.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or PNG Tourism: +675 320 0211.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Kokoda Track).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing tribal conflicts; respect local customs.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor smoke from bushfires in dry seasons.

Key Links

Flying to Papua New Guinea

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