Papúa Nueva Guinea

1. What are the best places to visit in Papua New Guinea?
Port Moresby, the capital, offers the National Museum and Art Gallery for cultural insights. The Sepik River is famous for its tribal art and crocodile festivals. Visit the Highlands for the Goroka Show, a vibrant cultural festival (September). Dive in Kimbe Bay, West New Britain, for world-class coral reefs and WWII wrecks. Trek the Kokoda Track, a 96-km WWII trail through rugged jungle. Rabaul in East New Britain has volcanic landscapes and the Tavurvur volcano, plus historical tunnels from WWII.

2. Is it safe to travel to Papua New Guinea?
As of March 2025, PNG requires caution. Port Moresby and Lae have high crime rates, including theft and carjacking, so avoid walking alone at night and use hotel-arranged transport. Tribal conflicts can occur in the Highlands—check local conditions before traveling. Natural risks include earthquakes and tsunamis; familiarize yourself with safety protocols. Tap water isn’t safe—use bottled water. Medical facilities are limited outside major cities, so bring medications and travel insurance. Check travel advisories for updates on political unrest or health risks like malaria.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Papua New Guinea?
Most nationalities, including the U.S., EU, Canada, and Australia, can get a 60-day tourist visa on arrival (free for many countries, $50 for others) with a passport valid for 6 months, proof of onward travel, and accommodation details. Alternatively, apply for an e-Visa online through PNG’s Immigration and Citizenship Authority ($50). Some nationalities may need to apply in advance at a PNG embassy. Business or extended stays require different visas. Confirm requirements before travel, as policies can change, and ensure you have a yellow fever certificate if coming from an affected area.

4. What is the best time to visit Papua New Guinea?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, with temperatures of 22°C–30°C (72°F–86°F) and lower humidity, ideal for trekking the Kokoda Track or attending the Goroka Show. The wet season (November to April) brings heavy rain, especially in the Highlands, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding, though it’s less crowded. Coastal areas like Kimbe Bay are diveable year-round, but visibility is best in the dry season. September is peak festival season with events like the Hiri Moale Festival in Port Moresby.

5. How do I get to Papua New Guinea?
Fly into Jacksons International Airport (POM) in Port Moresby. Air Niugini and Qantas offer flights from Australia (Brisbane or Cairns, $400–$800 round trip, 3 hours). Connections from Asia (Singapore or Manila, $600–$1,200, 6–8 hours) are available via Air Niugini or Philippine Airlines. Domestic flights with Air Niugini or PNG Air connect to Lae, Madang, or Rabaul ($100–$300 one-way), but delays are common. Boats to outer islands like New Britain are available but slow and irregular. Taxis from the airport to Port Moresby cost $15–$25—use reputable companies like Comfort Taxis.

6. What are traditional Papua New Guinean foods to try?
Try mumu, a traditional dish of pork, sweet potatoes, and greens cooked in an earth oven, often at village feasts. Sago, a starchy staple, is made into pancakes or dumplings, especially along the Sepik River. Fresh fish, like tuna or reef fish, is grilled with coconut milk in coastal areas. Kaukau (sweet potato) and taro are common, often boiled or roasted. For a snack, sample betel nut (buai), chewed with lime paste, though it stains teeth red. Meals are communal, reflecting PNG’s tribal culture, and often paired with fresh coconut water.

7. What are the best cultural experiences in Papua New Guinea?
Attend the Goroka Show (September) in the Eastern Highlands for traditional dances, sing-sings, and tribal displays. Visit a Sepik River village to see spirit houses (haus tambaran) and buy hand-carved masks. Join the Hiri Moale Festival in Port Moresby (September) to witness traditional Lakatoi canoe races and Motuan culture. In the Trobriand Islands, experience the yam harvest festival (Milamala, June–August) with dances and feasts. Visit the National Museum in Port Moresby for artifacts like kundu drums and insights into PNG’s 800+ tribes.

8. What are the best outdoor activities in Papua New Guinea?
Trek the Kokoda Track, a 96-km WWII trail through jungle and mountains (6–9 days, $2,000–$3,000 with a guide). Dive in Kimbe Bay or Milne Bay for coral reefs, sharks, and WWII wrecks like the Zero fighter plane ($80–$150/dive). Birdwatch in the Tari Valley to spot birds of paradise, including the Raggiana. Surf at Vanimo or Kavieng, known for consistent waves (October–April). Raft on the Watut River in Morobe Province for a thrilling adventure. Explore volcanic landscapes in Rabaul, including a hike to Tavurvur volcano.

9. What should I know about Papua New Guinean culture before visiting?
PNG is incredibly diverse, with over 800 languages—Tok Pisin and English are widely spoken. Greet with “Moning” (morning) or “Apinun” (afternoon) in Tok Pisin. Dress modestly, especially in villages—cover shoulders and knees. Tribal customs vary; ask permission before taking photos, as some communities consider it taboo. Avoid public displays of affection, which can be frowned upon. Respect land ownership—always travel with a guide in rural areas. Tipping isn’t expected, but small gifts like food are appreciated. Be prepared for a slower pace and deep community ties.

10. What are the accommodation options in Papua New Guinea?
In Port Moresby, stay at hotels like the Stanley Hotel & Suites ($150–$250/night) or budget options like the Gateway Hotel ($80–$120/night). In the Highlands, the Highlander Hotel in Mount Hagen ($100–$180/night) is convenient for festivals. For a cultural experience, village guesthouses along the Sepik River ($30–$60/night) offer basic stays with shared facilities. Dive resorts in Kimbe Bay, like Walindi Plantation Resort ($200–$350/night), cater to divers. In Rabaul, the Gazelle International Hotel ($90–$150/night) has volcano views. Book early, as options are limited outside major cities.