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Papua New Guinea Fun Places To Visit And Things To Do

See traditional highland houses and learn about local culture in Papua New Guinea.

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Papua New Guinea is a country full of surprises. It’s got mountains, beaches, and jungles. Plus, there are over 800 different languages spoken here! That’s more than any other country in the world.

If you’re planning a trip to Papua New Guinea, know that there’s so much to see and do here that you might not know where to start. Don’t worry, though, because this guide will help you plan an awesome trip to Papua New Guinea.

Explore the Exciting Capital City of Port Moresby

Port Moresby is where most Papua New Guinea adventures begin. It’s the country’s capital and biggest city. Even though it’s got a bit of a rough reputation, there’s actually a lot of cool stuff to see and do here. Let’s check out some of the top attractions in Port Moresby.

Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to Learn About PNG Culture

The National Museum and Art Gallery is like a treasure chest of Papua New Guinea’s history and culture. It’s got over 30,000 objects, from ancient tools to modern art.

When you visit, you’ll see everything from huge totem poles from the Sepik region to spooky skull racks called ‘agiba.’

Here’s what you need to know:

LocationIndependence Drive, Waigani, Port Moresby
Opening Hours9 AM – 3 PM (Mon-Sat), 1 PM – 3 PM (Sun)
CostFree on weekdays, 10 Kina (about $2.53) for adults on weekends
Must-See ItemsSepik totem poles, ‘agiba’ skull racks, traditional musical instruments
National Museum and Art Gallery: Key Visitor Information

The museum is split into different sections. There’s a part about musical instruments where you can see all sorts of drums and flutes.

Another section shows off masks and costumes from different parts of PNG. Some of them are so colorful and have such funny faces, you’ll want to take pictures of them all!

See Unique Animals at Port Moresby Nature Park

If you like animals, you’ll love Port Moresby Nature Park. It’s home to over 550 animals, and you can see them all in a place that looks just like their natural habitat. The park covers more than 30 hectares, which is about the size of 42 football fields!

Here’s the scoop on the Nature Park:

LocationPortion 1473, Goro Kaeaga Road, Reinbo
Opening Hours9 AM – 4:30 PM (Mon-Fri), 9 AM – 5 PM (Sat-Sun)
Cost20 Kina (about $5.06) for tourists
Animals to SpotTree kangaroos, birds of paradise, cassowaries, pig-nosed turtles
Port Moresby Nature Park: Essential Details for Visitors

One of the coolest animals you might see is the tree kangaroo. These guys are like regular kangaroos, but they live in trees! They’re really rare, so seeing one is super special.

The park also has birds of paradise, which are beautiful birds with really colorful feathers. And don’t miss the cassowaries – they’re big birds that can’t fly but can run super fast!

Check Out the Impressive Parliament Haus Building

The Parliament Haus is where Papua New Guinea’s government meets. But it’s not just a boring old building – it’s actually really cool to look at! The building mixes modern design with traditional PNG style, making it a must-see spot in Port Moresby.

Check out these details:

LocationMogani Cres, Port Moresby
Opening Hours9 AM – 3 PM (Mon-Fri)
CostFree
Unique FeaturesMain building resembles a Sepik haus tambaran, doors shaped like kundu drums
Parliament Haus: Visitor Guide and Unique Features

The main building of Parliament Haus looks like a traditional haus tambaran from the Sepik region. That’s a special kind of building where important meetings are held in some PNG cultures.

Inside, you’ll see doors shaped like kundu drums, which are used in traditional ceremonies. The cafe building is round, which is meant to show the style of buildings in the Highlands region. It’s a great place to see how PNG mixes old traditions with new ideas.

Discover traditional villages in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Go on Adventures in Papua New Guinea’s Highlands

The Highlands of Papua New Guinea wasn’t even known to the outside world until the 1930s, so it still has lots of secrets to discover. Let’s explore some of the coolest things to see and do in Papua New Guinea’s Highlands.

Climb Mount Wilhelm, PNG’s Highest Mountain

Mount Wilhelm is the tallest mountain in Papua New Guinea, and climbing it is one of the most exciting things to do in the country. It’s not an easy hike, but the views from the top are absolutely incredible. You can see for miles and miles in every direction!

Here’s what you need to know about climbing Mount Wilhelm:

LocationSimbu Province
Height4,509 meters (14,793 feet)
Climb Duration3-4 days round trip
Best Time to ClimbMay to October (dry season)
CostAround 1000-1500 Kina ($253-$379) for a guided tour
DifficultyChallenging – requires good fitness and some hiking experience
Mount Wilhelm Climb: Important Information for Hikers

The climb usually starts from Keglsugl village. From there, you’ll hike through different types of forests, from tropical trees at the bottom to alpine grasslands near the top.

The last part of the climb is the toughest, with steep, rocky slopes. But when you reach the summit, you’ll be standing at the highest point in all of Oceania! On a clear day, you can even see both the Pacific Ocean and the Arafura Sea.

Meet the Asaro Mudmen and Learn Their Legend

The Asaro Mudmen are one of the most unique and fascinating groups in Papua New Guinea. These guys look like they’ve stepped right out of a scary movie, but their story is even more interesting than their appearance.

Here’s the lowdown on visiting the Asaro Mudmen:

LocationNear Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province
Best Time to VisitDuring the Goroka Show in September
CostAbout 50-100 Kina ($13-$25) for a village visit
What to ExpectClay mask demonstrations, traditional dances, photo opportunities
Asaro Mudmen Village Visit: What to Know

The Asaro Mudmen are famous for their scary-looking clay masks and white mud-covered bodies. According to legend, long ago, they were forced to flee from their enemies and hide in the muddy Asaro River.

When they came out covered in gray mud, their enemies thought they were spirits and ran away in fear. The Mudmen realized this trick could help them, so they started making masks and covering themselves in mud to scare off invaders.

Today, you can visit their village and see how they make their famous masks. They might even let you try one on! If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see them perform their spooky dance. It’s definitely one of the most unique cultural experiences you can have in Papua New Guinea.

See the Colorful Huli Wigmen and Their Amazing Hairstyles

The Huli Wigmen are another group that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. These guys are famous for their incredible wigs, which they make from their own hair!

Here’s what you should know about visiting the Huli:

LocationTari Basin, Hela Province
When to GoYear-round, but avoid December to March (rainy season)
CostAround 100-150 Kina ($25-$38) for a village visit
What’s SpecialBright red wigs, face painting, traditional dances
Huli Wigmen Experience: Visitor Guide

The Huli are known for their amazing wigs, which they make from their own hair. They grow their hair for 18 months, then cut it off and weave it into these incredible wigs.

They decorate them with feathers, flowers, and even bird-of-paradise plumes. The wigs aren’t just for show – they’re a big part of Huli culture and are worn for important ceremonies.

When you visit a Huli village, you might get to see a “sing-sing” – that’s a traditional dance where the men wear their best wigs and face paint. The dance tells stories about Huli history and beliefs. It’s like watching a living, breathing piece of art!

Relax on beaches in Papua New Guinea with clear waters and lush surroundings.

Enjoy Beach Time and Island Hopping in PNG

Papua New Guinea is a travel destination that has some of the most beautiful coastlines and islands you’ve ever seen. The water is so blue it looks like someone poured food coloring in the ocean. Let’s check out some of the best beach and island things to do in Papua New Guinea.

Go Snorkeling in Kimbe Bay’s Underwater Paradise

Kimbe Bay is like jumping into the world’s biggest, most colorful fish tank. It’s part of the Coral Triangle, which is an area with more different types of sea life than almost anywhere else on Earth.

Here’s what you need to know about snorkeling in Kimbe Bay:

LocationWest New Britain Province
Best Time to GoApril to November (dry season)
CostAbout 200-300 Kina ($51-$76) for a guided snorkel trip
What You’ll SeeColorful coral, tropical fish, even dolphins!
Water Temperature25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round
Kimbe Bay Snorkeling: Trip Details and What to Expect

When you’re snorkeling in Kimbe Bay, you might see clownfish (like Nemo!), bright blue starfish, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky. The coral comes in all sorts of wild shapes and colors.

Some look like big brains, others like delicate fans waving in the breeze. And the best part? The water is warm and usually pretty calm, so it’s great even if you’ve never snorkeled before.

Relax on the Beaches of New Ireland

New Ireland is a long, skinny island with some of the nicest beaches in Papua New Guinea. The sand is white and soft, and the water is warm and clear. It’s the perfect place to relax after all your adventures in the mountains.

Here’s what you should know about visiting New Ireland:

LocationNew Ireland Province
Best Time to VisitApril to November (dry season)
How to Get ThereFly to Kavieng, then take a boat to other parts of the island
What to DoSwimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking
Must-Visit BeachNusa Lik – a small island just off the coast
New Ireland Beach Visit: Travel Tips and Highlights

One of the best beaches in New Ireland is called Nusa Lik. It’s a small island just off the coast that you can reach by boat. The beach here is so perfect it almost doesn’t look real.

The sand is super white and soft, and the water is crystal clear. You can spend the whole day here swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing under a palm tree.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can try your hand at fishing or kayaking. The waters around New Ireland are full of fish, and you might even catch your own dinner!

Discover the Unique Culture of the Trobriand Islands

The Trobriand Islands are a group of islands that are famous for their unique culture. They’re sometimes called the “Islands of Love” because of their interesting customs about romance and relationships.

Here’s what you need to know about visiting the Trobriand Islands:

LocationMilne Bay Province
Best Time to VisitJune to August (yam harvest season)
How to Get ThereFly to Kiriwina Island from Port Moresby
What to SeeYam houses, cricket matches, traditional dances
CostFlights around 500-700 Kina ($127-$177), accommodations vary
Trobriand Islands Trip: Visitor Information and Cultural Highlights

One of the coolest things about the Trobriand Islands is how important yams are to the people who live there. During the yam harvest season, you’ll see huge yams decorated and displayed in special yam houses. The bigger and more perfect your yams, the more respected you are in the community.

Another must-see on the Trobriand Islands is a cricket match. But forget everything you know about cricket – Trobriand cricket is a whole different game. It involves lots of dancing, chanting, and some pretty wacky rules. It’s more like a festival than a sports match!

Explore World War II relics at the Rabaul War Museum, a must for history fans.

Learn About World War II History in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea played a big role in World War II, and there are lots of places where you can learn about this important part of history. From jungle battlefields to underwater wrecks, PNG is like a living museum of World War II in the Pacific.

Hike the Historic Kokoda Track

The Kokoda Track is probably the most famous World War II site in Papua New Guinea. It’s a tough hike, but it’s also an amazing way to experience both the country’s history and its incredible nature.

Here’s what you need to know about hiking the Kokoda Track:

LocationStarts near Port Moresby, ends in Kokoda, Oro Province
Length96 kilometers (60 miles)
How Long It TakesUsually 6-9 days
Best Time to GoMay to October (dry season)
CostAround 6000-8000 Kina ($1,519-$2,025) for a guided trek
DifficultyChallenging – you need to be fit!
Kokoda Track Hike: Essential Information for Trekkers

The Kokoda Track follows the path of a really important battle in World War II. Australian soldiers fought here to stop the Japanese from reaching Port Moresby.

As you hike, you’ll see old weapons, aircraft remains, and other things left over from the war. You’ll also learn about the “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels” – local Papua New Guineans who helped carry injured Australian soldiers to safety.

But it’s not all about history. The track goes through some of the most beautiful rainforests you’ve ever seen. You’ll cross rivers, climb mountains, and meet people in tiny villages along the way. It’s tough, but most people say it’s one of the most amazing experiences of their lives.

Explore Rabaul’s War Relics and Volcanoes

Rabaul is a town that’s had a pretty wild history. It was an important base for the Japanese during World War II, and then it got buried by a volcanic eruption in 1994!

Here’s what you should know about visiting Rabaul:

LocationEast New Britain Province
How to Get ThereFly to Tokua Airport, about 45 minutes from Rabaul
What to SeeWar relics, volcanic landscapes, hot springs
CostTours around 200-300 Kina ($51-$76) per day
Must-Visit SiteRabaul Volcano Observatory
Rabaul Sightseeing: Tour Information and Attractions

In Rabaul, you can explore old Japanese tunnels and bunkers. There’s even a hidden barge tunnel where the Japanese kept their boats safe from Allied attacks.

You can also visit the Rabaul War Museum to see artifacts from the war and learn more about what happened here. Rabaul is a town surrounded by active volcanoes, including Mount Tavurvur, which erupted in 1994 and covered the town in ash.

You can visit the Rabaul Volcano Observatory to learn about these powerful forces of nature. If you’re feeling brave, you can even climb up to the edge of the Tavurvur volcano crater.

Visit the Madang War Museum to See Interesting Artifacts

Our last stop on the World War II history tour is the Madang War Museum. This place is packed with interesting stuff from the war, including some things you won’t see anywhere else.

Here’s what you need to know:

LocationMadang Town, Madang Province
Open Hours8 AM – 5 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Cost5 Kina (about $1.27)
What to SeeWar relics, including a Japanese mini-submarine
Unique FeatureExtensive collection of photos from the war
Madang War Museum: Visitor Guide and Highlights

The star of the show at the Madang War Museum is definitely the Japanese mini-submarine. You can get up close and even peek inside. It’s pretty amazing to think about the brave (or maybe crazy) people who actually used these tiny subs during the war.

There are also lots of other things to see, like old guns, helmets, and even unexploded bombs (don’t worry, they’re safe now!). The museum has a huge collection of photos from the war, which gives you a real sense of what life was like during those difficult times.

Experience life in traditional huts, a unique part of Papua New Guinea’s culture.

Experience Papua New Guinea’s Amazing Cultures

One of the coolest things about Papua New Guinea is its incredible variety of cultures. With over 800 different languages, you can bet there are a lot of unique traditions to discover. Let’s look at some ways you can experience these fascinating cultures.

Join the Colorful Goroka Show Festival

If you want to see a lot of Papua New Guinea’s cultures all in one place, you’ve got to check out the Goroka Show. This is like the Super Bowl of cultural festivals in PNG.

Here’s what you need to know:

WhereGoroka, Eastern Highlands Province
WhenUsually mid-September
How Long3 days
CostAround 300-400 Kina ($76-$101) for a 3-day pass
What to SeeTraditional dances, music, costumes from many different groups
Number of PerformersOver 100 tribes represented
Goroka Show Festival: Event Details and What to See

The Goroka Show is a massive celebration of Papua New Guinea’s cultures. Groups from all over the country come to show off their traditional dances, music, and costumes.

Here, you’ll see warriors with huge feathered headdresses, girls in grass skirts, and those Asaro Mudmen we talked about earlier. The sound of hundreds of kundu drums (traditional PNG drums) all playing at once is something you’ll never forget.

There’s also a big market where you can buy handmade crafts from different parts of the country. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs to take home. Just remember, this isn’t a show put on for tourists – it’s a real celebration of PNG culture, so be respectful and ask before taking photos.

Take a Trip Up the Sepik River to See Traditional Villages

Sepik River is one of the longest rivers in Papua New Guinea, and the people who live along its banks have some really fascinating traditions.

Here’s what you should know about visiting the Sepik:

WhereEast Sepik Province
Best Time to GoMay to October (dry season)
How to Get ThereFly to Wewak, then take a boat up the river
What to SeeSpirit houses, wood carvings, crocodile scarification ceremonies
CostTours can range from 1000-3000 Kina ($253-$759) depending on length
Trip DurationTypically 3-7 days
Sepik River Tour: Trip Information and Cultural Experiences

One of the coolest things you’ll see on the Sepik are the spirit houses, or “haus tambaran”. These are huge buildings where men gather and keep sacred objects. The carvings on these houses are incredible – every inch is covered in faces, animals, and designs that all have special meanings.

The Sepik is also famous for its wood carvings. You can watch master carvers at work and maybe even buy a piece to take home. Just remember – some carvings are sacred and not for sale, so always ask before you try to buy something.

If you’re really adventurous, you might get to see a crocodile scarification ceremony. This is where young men get their skin cut to look like crocodile scales. It’s a really important tradition for some Sepik people, but it’s not for the faint of heart!

Watch the Exciting Baining Fire Dance

Last but definitely not least on our cultural tour is the Baining Fire Dance. This is one of the most spectacular things you can see in Papua New Guinea.

Here’s what you need to know:

WhereNear Kokopo, East New Britain Province
WhenCan happen any time of year, but most common during full moons
How LongUsually starts at night and goes until early morning
CostVaries, but expect to pay around 100-150 Kina ($25-$38)
What to ExpectMen wearing huge masks dancing through and around a bonfire
Baining Fire Dance: Event Details and What to Expect

The Baining Fire Dance is exactly what it sounds like – a dance with fire! Men wear huge masks made of bark cloth painted with crazy designs. They dance around and even through a big bonfire, kicking up sparks and burning embers.

The masks are supposed to represent spirits, and the whole dance is meant to make the spirits happy so they’ll help with things like good crops and healthy babies. It’s not just a show for tourists – this is a real ceremony that’s been part of Baining culture for hundreds of years.

Locals preparing traditional food, a must-try cultural experience in Papua New Guinea.

Try Papua New Guinea Foods

Papua New Guinea has some pretty tasty treats that you’ve got to try while you’re here. The food in PNG is all about fresh ingredients and simple cooking methods that let the flavors shine.

Enjoy a Traditional Mumu Feast

First up is mumu, which is both a way of cooking and a kind of feast. It’s like a Papua New Guinea version of a barbecue but way cooler.

Here’s the scoop on mumu:

What It IsFood cooked in an underground oven
What’s In ItUsually pork, chicken, or fish, plus sweet potatoes and other veggies
Where to Try ItMany villages offer mumu for visitors
CostOften included in village tours, or around 30-50 Kina ($7.59-$12.66)
Cooking Time2-3 hours
Mumu Feast: Traditional Cooking Experience Information

To make a mumu, people dig a hole in the ground and fill it with hot rocks. Then they wrap food in banana leaves and put it on top of the rocks.

They cover everything with dirt and leaves and let it cook for a few hours. When the mumu is ready, it’s like a Papua New Guinea style feast!

The meat comes out super tender and has a smoky flavor that’s out of this world. The veggies are perfectly cooked and full of flavor. It’s definitely one of the yummiest things to try in Papua New Guinea. Plus.

Taste Kava, a Special PNG Drink

Next up on our Papua New Guinea food and drink adventure is kava. This isn’t exactly food, but it’s a pretty important part of social life in some parts of PNG.

Here’s what you need to know about kava:

What It IsA drink made from kava root
What It DoesMakes you feel relaxed and calm
Where to Try ItSome bars in Port Moresby, or in villages
CostAround 5-10 Kina ($1.27-$2.53) per cup
TasteEarthy and a bit bitter
Kava Tasting: What to Know About This Traditional Drink

Kava looks kind of like muddy water and, to be honest, it doesn’t taste great. But people don’t drink it for the taste – they drink it because it makes you feel super relaxed. It’s a bit like having a beer but without the fuzzy head the next day.

In some places, drinking kava is an important social activity. People sit around, share kava, and talk about everything under the sun. It’s a cool way to hang out with locals and experience a bit of Papua New Guinea culture. Just remember to go easy on it – too much kava can make you feel a bit wobbly!

Sample Sago, a Local Staple Food

Last but not least, let’s talk about sago. This is a staple food in many parts of Papua New Guinea, especially in the lowlands and along the Sepik River.

Here’s the lowdown on sago:

What It IsA starchy food made from palm trees
How It’s EatenOften as a pancake or pudding
Where to Try ItMany local markets and villages
CostVery cheap, often less than 1 Kina (about $0.25)
Nutritional ValueHigh in carbohydrates, low in protein
Sago: Information About This Traditional Papua New Guinea Food

Sago comes from the inside of certain palm trees. People cut down the tree, break open the trunk, and scoop out the soft insides. Then they mash it up and strain it to get the starch out. It’s a lot of work!

The sago starch can be cooked in different ways. Sometimes it’s made into a kind of pancake, other times it’s mixed with hot water to make a sticky pudding. It doesn’t have much flavor on its own, but it’s often served with tasty soups or stews.

Trying sago is a great way to experience a food that’s been important to Papua New Guinea people for thousands of years. It might not be your new favorite food, but it’s definitely an interesting thing to taste in Papua New Guinea!

Papua New Guinea map highlighting fun places to visit and things to do.

Practical Tips for Your Papua New Guinea Vacation

Planning a trip to Papua New Guinea can be exciting, but it’s important to be well-prepared. Let’s go through everything you need to know to make your PNG adventure awesome and safe.

Visa Information

As of September 2024, most visitors can get a free visa when they arrive in Papua New Guinea. This includes people from the USA, Australia, and many European countries. You can stay for 30 or 60 days, depending on what you plan to do.

If you want to be extra prepared, you can apply for an e-Visa before you travel. It’s free and anyone can apply, no matter where you’re from. Some countries need to get a visa before they travel, so it’s a good idea to check with the Papua New Guinea embassy in your country to be sure.

Remember, visa rules can change, so always check the official Papua New Guinea Immigration website before you book your trip. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

When to Visit Papua New Guinea

Choosing the right time to visit can make your trip even better. Papua New Guinea has two main seasons:

SeasonMonthsWhat to Expect
Dry SeasonMay to OctoberLess rain, easier to travel, most festivals happen
Wet SeasonNovember to AprilMore rain, some areas hard to reach, fewer tourists
Papua New Guinea Seasons: Best Times to Visit

Most people like to visit during the dry season. The weather is nicer, and it’s easier to get around. Plus, this is when most of the cool cultural festivals happen. But don’t write off the wet season completely! The forests are super green and lush, and you might get some places all to yourself.

Getting Around in Papua New Guinea

Getting around PNG can be tricky, but that’s part of the fun! The most common ways to travel are by plane, PMV (Public Motor Vehicle), car, or boat.

Flying is often the best way to go long distances. Air Niugini and PNG Air are the main airlines. A flight usually costs between 300 and 1000 Kina (that’s about $76 to $253). It can be expensive, but it saves a lot of time.

PMVs are great for short trips. These are usually mini buses or trucks that locals use. They’re cheap (about 2-10 Kina for a short trip) and a great way to meet people. Just be ready for a bumpy, crowded ride!

You can rent a car in big towns, but be careful. The roads can be really bad, especially during the wet season. Always rent a 4WD vehicle. It usually costs about 200-400 Kina per day.

In coastal areas and along rivers, boats are often the way to go. Just don’t be in a hurry – boat trips can take a long time!

Staying Healthy in Papua New Guinea

Staying healthy is super important when you’re traveling. Before you go to PNG, you should visit a doctor who knows about travel medicine. They’ll tell you what vaccines you need and give you other health advice.

Here are some of the vaccines you might need:

VaccineWhy You Need It
Hepatitis AProtects against a liver disease you can get from contaminated food or water
TyphoidPrevents a bacterial infection that can make you very sick
Japanese EncephalitisProtects against a serious brain infection spread by mosquitoes
Malaria PreventionWhile not a vaccine, you’ll need to take pills to prevent malaria
Recommended Vaccines for Papua New Guinea Travel

Your doctor might recommend other vaccines too, depending on where you’re going in PNG and what you plan to do.

When you’re in PNG, always drink bottled water or water you’ve boiled yourself. Be careful about eating food from street vendors. It’s also a good idea to use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

What to Pack for Papua New Guinea

Packing the right stuff can make your trip much more fun. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Clothes: Pack light, comfy clothes that cover your knees and shoulders. It’s hot in PNG, so think T-shirts and lightweight pants or long skirts. Don’t forget a rain jacket!
  • Shoes: Bring good hiking boots if you plan to do any trekking. Sandals are great for the beach.
  • Sun Protection: The sun is strong in PNG, so pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lots of waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Don’t forget lip balm with sun protection too.
  • Health Stuff: Bring any medicines you usually take, plus some extras in case you get sick. A basic first-aid kit is a good idea too.
  • Electronics: Don’t forget your camera to capture all the amazing things you’ll see! A power bank is useful too, as electricity can be unreliable in some places.
  • Power Adapter: PNG uses Type I sockets (same as Australia), with 240V and 50Hz frequency. Bring an adapter that fits these outlets.
  • Water Gear: A reusable water bottle is essential. Consider bringing water purification tablets or a filter bottle for areas where clean water might not be available.
  • Backpack: A sturdy daypack is useful for day trips and short hikes. Make sure it’s comfortable and has room for water, snacks, and your camera.
  • Entertainment: Pack a good book or e-reader for downtime. A Tok Pisin phrasebook can help you communicate with locals.

Sure, you can buy most things you forget in the bigger towns in PNG, but it might be more expensive than at home.

Money Matters

The money used in PNG is called the Kina. As of September 2024, one US dollar is worth about 3.95 Kina. Cash is really important in PNG because many places, especially in small towns and villages, don’t take credit cards.

It’s a good idea to bring some US dollars or Australian dollars with you to exchange. You can find ATMs in bigger towns, but they don’t always work, so don’t rely on them completely.

People in PNG don’t usually expect tips, but if someone does a really good job, a small tip is a nice way to say thank you.

Wrapping Up Our Papua New Guinea Visit

The things to see and do in Papua New Guinea go way beyond what we’ve talked about here. Every village, every island, every corner of this country has its own unique sights and experiences.

So, are you ready to start planning your Papua New Guinea adventure? Whether you’re dreaming of hiking the Kokoda Track, snorkeling in Kimbe Bay, or watching the colorful costumes at the Goroka Show, Papua New Guinea is waiting to amaze you.

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