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:
Location | Independence Drive, Waigani, Port Moresby |
Opening Hours | 9 AM – 3 PM (Mon-Sat), 1 PM – 3 PM (Sun) |
Cost | Free on weekdays, 10 Kina (about $2.53) for adults on weekends |
Must-See Items | Sepik totem poles, ‘agiba’ skull racks, traditional musical instruments |
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:
Location | Portion 1473, Goro Kaeaga Road, Reinbo |
Opening Hours | 9 AM – 4:30 PM (Mon-Fri), 9 AM – 5 PM (Sat-Sun) |
Cost | 20 Kina (about $5.06) for tourists |
Animals to Spot | Tree kangaroos, birds of paradise, cassowaries, pig-nosed turtles |
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:
Location | Mogani Cres, Port Moresby |
Opening Hours | 9 AM – 3 PM (Mon-Fri) |
Cost | Free |
Unique Features | Main building resembles a Sepik haus tambaran, doors shaped like kundu drums |
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.
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:
Location | Simbu Province |
Height | 4,509 meters (14,793 feet) |
Climb Duration | 3-4 days round trip |
Best Time to Climb | May to October (dry season) |
Cost | Around 1000-1500 Kina ($253-$379) for a guided tour |
Difficulty | Challenging – requires good fitness and some hiking experience |
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:
Location | Near Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province |
Best Time to Visit | During the Goroka Show in September |
Cost | About 50-100 Kina ($13-$25) for a village visit |
What to Expect | Clay mask demonstrations, traditional dances, photo opportunities |
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:
Location | Tari Basin, Hela Province |
When to Go | Year-round, but avoid December to March (rainy season) |
Cost | Around 100-150 Kina ($25-$38) for a village visit |
What’s Special | Bright red wigs, face painting, traditional dances |
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!
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:
Location | West New Britain Province |
Best Time to Go | April to November (dry season) |
Cost | About 200-300 Kina ($51-$76) for a guided snorkel trip |
What You’ll See | Colorful coral, tropical fish, even dolphins! |
Water Temperature | 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round |
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:
Location | New Ireland Province |
Best Time to Visit | April to November (dry season) |
How to Get There | Fly to Kavieng, then take a boat to other parts of the island |
What to Do | Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking |
Must-Visit Beach | Nusa Lik – a small island just off the coast |
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:
Location | Milne Bay Province |
Best Time to Visit | June to August (yam harvest season) |
How to Get There | Fly to Kiriwina Island from Port Moresby |
What to See | Yam houses, cricket matches, traditional dances |
Cost | Flights around 500-700 Kina ($127-$177), accommodations vary |
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!
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:
Location | Starts near Port Moresby, ends in Kokoda, Oro Province |
Length | 96 kilometers (60 miles) |
How Long It Takes | Usually 6-9 days |
Best Time to Go | May to October (dry season) |
Cost | Around 6000-8000 Kina ($1,519-$2,025) for a guided trek |
Difficulty | Challenging – you need to be fit! |
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:
Location | East New Britain Province |
How to Get There | Fly to Tokua Airport, about 45 minutes from Rabaul |
What to See | War relics, volcanic landscapes, hot springs |
Cost | Tours around 200-300 Kina ($51-$76) per day |
Must-Visit Site | Rabaul Volcano Observatory |
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:
Location | Madang Town, Madang Province |
Open Hours | 8 AM – 5 PM (Monday to Saturday) |
Cost | 5 Kina (about $1.27) |
What to See | War relics, including a Japanese mini-submarine |
Unique Feature | Extensive collection of photos from the war |
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 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:
Where | Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province |
When | Usually mid-September |
How Long | 3 days |
Cost | Around 300-400 Kina ($76-$101) for a 3-day pass |
What to See | Traditional dances, music, costumes from many different groups |
Number of Performers | Over 100 tribes represented |
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:
Where | East Sepik Province |
Best Time to Go | May to October (dry season) |
How to Get There | Fly to Wewak, then take a boat up the river |
What to See | Spirit houses, wood carvings, crocodile scarification ceremonies |
Cost | Tours can range from 1000-3000 Kina ($253-$759) depending on length |
Trip Duration | Typically 3-7 days |
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:
Where | Near Kokopo, East New Britain Province |
When | Can happen any time of year, but most common during full moons |
How Long | Usually starts at night and goes until early morning |
Cost | Varies, but expect to pay around 100-150 Kina ($25-$38) |
What to Expect | Men wearing huge masks dancing through and around a bonfire |
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.
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 Is | Food cooked in an underground oven |
What’s In It | Usually pork, chicken, or fish, plus sweet potatoes and other veggies |
Where to Try It | Many villages offer mumu for visitors |
Cost | Often included in village tours, or around 30-50 Kina ($7.59-$12.66) |
Cooking Time | 2-3 hours |
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 Is | A drink made from kava root |
What It Does | Makes you feel relaxed and calm |
Where to Try It | Some bars in Port Moresby, or in villages |
Cost | Around 5-10 Kina ($1.27-$2.53) per cup |
Taste | Earthy and a bit bitter |
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 Is | A starchy food made from palm trees |
How It’s Eaten | Often as a pancake or pudding |
Where to Try It | Many local markets and villages |
Cost | Very cheap, often less than 1 Kina (about $0.25) |
Nutritional Value | High in carbohydrates, low in protein |
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!
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:
Season | Months | What to Expect |
---|---|---|
Dry Season | May to October | Less rain, easier to travel, most festivals happen |
Wet Season | November to April | More rain, some areas hard to reach, fewer tourists |
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:
Vaccine | Why You Need It |
---|---|
Hepatitis A | Protects against a liver disease you can get from contaminated food or water |
Typhoid | Prevents a bacterial infection that can make you very sick |
Japanese Encephalitis | Protects against a serious brain infection spread by mosquitoes |
Malaria Prevention | While not a vaccine, you’ll need to take pills to prevent malaria |
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.