Papua New Guinea: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you ready to explore the “final frontier”? Welcome to Papua New Guinea, where ancient traditions meet wild beauty. You can trek the famous Kokoda Track or visit the magical Madang Archipelago. This island nation is full of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

Get ready for an adventure that will push you to your limits. You’ll be amazed by the beauty and wonder of this incredible place.

• Discover the rich cultural heritage and traditional customs of Papua New Guinea’s diverse indigenous communities.
• Immerse yourself in the adventure of trekking the historic Kokoda Track, a journey that honors the sacrifices of World War II.
• Conquer the summit of Mount Wilhelm, the tallest peak in Oceania, and bask in the breathtaking panoramic views.
• Explore the enchanting Madang Archipelago and its countless islands, perfect for island hopping and coastal adventures.
• Dive into the vibrant underwater world, uncovering the hidden history of World War II shipwrecks and thriving coral reefs.

Start an amazing journey through Papua New Guinea’s Kokoda Track, also known as the Kokoda Trail. This 96-kilometer trek is one of the toughest hikes in the world. It goes through the Owen Stanley Range and rich WWII history.

On the Kokoda Track, you’ll think about the key battles of World War II. The Isurava Memorial honors a tough battle from August 26-30, 1942. Australian and Japanese forces clashed, showing the sacrifices made here.

The trek tests you physically and mentally. You’ll face steep climbs, river crossings, and changing temperatures. Daytime is hot, while nights are cooler. Trekkers think about the four pillars of Kokoda – mateship, endurance, sacrifice, and courage.

With expert guides and porters, you’ll dive into the Koiaris culture. These friendly locals live in the villages along the track. The journey is tough but rewarding, offering a deep look into history.

Reaching the 4,509-meter (14,793-foot) summit of Mount Wilhelm is a big challenge. It’s the highest peak in Oceania and a dream for adventurers in Papua New Guinea. The hike from Betty’s Lodge to the top and back is 23.4 kilometers long. You’ll go through dirt paths, muddy areas, and some bouldering.

This hike takes 2-3 days, and it’s important to get used to the high altitude slowly. The cold and thin air make it tough. But, reaching the summit to see the sunrise is worth it. You’ll get amazing views of the Bismarck Range.

The base camp is at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) in the Bismarck Range. It’s a key spot for getting used to the altitude before going higher. The trek from Betty’s Lodge to base camp is 5.7 kilometers and takes about three hours. You need the right gear and a slow climb to tackle the tough terrain and weather.

“Reaching the summit of Mount Wilhelm as the first person to see the sun rise in Papua New Guinea was an unforgettable and humbling experience. The sense of accomplishment in conquering this Oceanic giant is truly unparalleled.”

Madang, on Papua New Guinea’s northern coast, is a natural paradise. It offers a unique island-hopping adventure. With hundreds of islands, it’s perfect for escaping daily life and enjoying the South Pacific’s calm.

Pig Island is a highlight, with its palm trees, turquoise waters, and jungle. You can swim in clear lagoons, kayak through mangroves, or relax on soft beaches. The island is filled with the sounds of exotic birds.

There are many more islands to explore in the Madang Archipelago. You can move from one island to another, finding hidden spots, snorkeling, and enjoying fresh seafood at beach cafes.

Looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure? The Madang Archipelago has it all. It will captivate your senses and give you lasting memories. Dive into the beauty of this tropical paradise and let island life soothe your soul.

When planning your trip to the Madang Archipelago, don’t miss these highlights:

• Explore the palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters of Pig Island
• Discover hidden coves and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs
• Indulge in fresh seafood at the Madang Resort’s beachside cafes
• Kayak through mangrove-lined channels and witness the calls of exotic birds
• Immerse yourself in the natural splendor and serene rhythms of the South Pacific

Don’t miss the chance to island hop through the magical Madang Archipelago. It’s an experience that will give you memories to last a lifetime.

Papua New Guinea’s Madang region is a top spot for scuba diving. It’s where WWII battle sites have turned into a home for many sea creatures. You can dive among historic wrecks like the Henry Lieth shipwreck and the B-25 bomber plane wreck. These wrecks are now full of life, becoming vibrant coral gardens.

Madang diving is more than just seeing WWII wrecks. It’s a chance to see the amazing sea life that lives here. You’ll see coral reefs full of colorful fish, schools of barracuda, and maybe even a white tip reef shark. The underwater world is stunning.

When you dive down, you’ll feel like you’re going back in time. You’ll see WWII wrecks that are now part of the ocean floor. The Henry Lieth shipwreck and the B-25 bomber plane wreck show the area’s history. The coral reefs and sea life around them are amazing.

Madang is known for its coral diversity, with over half of the world’s coral species here. Divers will see many tropical fish, from clownfish to barracuda. Seeing a white tip reef shark is a special treat.

“Papua New Guinea’s Madang region offers some of the world’s most exceptional scuba diving, with WWII wrecks and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.”

Madang is great for both experienced and new divers. It combines history with stunning underwater views. This makes Madang a top choice for divers from all over the world.

In the heart of Papua New Guinea’s lush jungles, Hailiku Village awaits with an adventure unlike any other. Explore the hidden gems of the area, from the enigmatic Mali Cave to the exhilarating cliff jumps at Itanub Cave.

Start your journey with the local villagers as they guide you through winding rivers and secret spots. Be amazed by the secrets of the Mali Cave, a vast underground space that was a WWII Japanese hideout.

Then, the real excitement begins at Itanub Cave. Here, you can take a thrilling leap from the cave’s dark entrance into a cool, refreshing pool. The villagers will cheer you on, having never seen such a daring act before.

Experience the rich culture and history of Hailiku Village, where ancient and modern worlds meet. Dive into the adventure of jungle caving and cliff jumping. Discover the hidden treasures that make this place a true Papua New Guinea gem.

“The discovery of the Hailiku Village cliff jump in the jungle cave called ‘Mali Cave’ was an unexpected adventure. The locals led visitors through the rivers, caves, and watering holes of their community, including the deep Itanub Cave where the Japanese reportedly hid during WWII. The highlight was the opportunity to cliff jump from the entrance of the dark, scary cave into the pool below, much to the delight of the local villagers who had never seen such a feat before.”

Papua New Guinea’s South Pacific region was a key battleground in World War II. It left behind many plane and shipwrecks on the islands. The Talasea Plane Wrecks on New Britain island are a fascinating site.

These two bomber wrecks are just a 30-minute drive from the Walindi Plantation Resort in Kimbe Town. They have stayed in the same spots since they crashed, now surrounded by a growing palm-oil plantation. Visitors can easily see these wrecks and learn about the historical battles here.

The American B-25H bomber and the Lockheed Ventura NZ4522 both made emergency landings at Talasea airfield during the war. All crew members survived. Today, these World War II aircraft wrecks are still in place, slowly being covered by the jungle. They offer an easy and interesting exploration for visitors.

To get to the Talasea Plane Wrecks, guests at the Walindi Plantation Resort can drive for 30-40 minutes on a rough road. This road is only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. The resort also has other activities, like birdwatching, snorkeling, and helicopter tours. These tours show off the region’s volcanic landscapes and lush palm-oil plantations.

Mount Garbuna is a stunning natural wonder, just 20 km from Kimbe in New Britain. The 8-kilometer, 3-hour hike takes you through lush forests. At the summit, you’ll see smoke and sulfur pits, with a unique smell.

The trek is filled with rich birdlife and diverse plants. As you climb, you’ll gain about 850 meters in elevation. The summit offers a breathtaking view, with thermal pits and volcanic activity.

The hike to Mount Garbuna is challenging. You’ll face muddy paths and uneven ground. But the stunning views and the chance to see the volcano’s power make it worth it.

The Garbuna Volcano trail is not crowded. It starts at the Walindi Plantation Resort in Kimbe. Visitors usually fly into Hoskins Airport and then take the Walindi Private Shuttle to the resort.

For seasoned hikers or those looking for adventure, Mount Garbuna is unforgettable. You’ll explore lush forests and see the volcano’s power. The views from the summit are truly memorable.

In the lush, tropical jungle of New Britain, the Garu Hot River is a hidden gem. It’s a place where you can relax and rejuvenate, surrounded by greenery. This hot spring oasis is a true natural wonder.

A 40-minute drive from the famous Walindi Plantation Resort, you’ll find the Garu Hot River. It’s a top spot for those looking for a unique and calming adventure. The hot springs’ 40-degree Celsius waters are perfect for relaxing and connecting with nature.

On your way to the hot springs, you’ll pass through a beautiful palm oil plantation. This gives you a peek into the area’s diverse landscape. Just a 10-meter walk from the parking area takes you straight to the Garu Hot River. It’s easy for everyone to get to.

While there, enjoy the thermal waters, the lush jungle, and the river’s calming sounds. You can bring water or snacks to make your visit better. Also, try clay painting for a fun and cultural twist.

The Garu Hot River is known as one of the most magical and peaceful places in Papua New Guinea. It offers a unique spa experience in the island’s beautiful wilderness. Whether you want peace or a chance to experience local culture, this spot will leave a lasting impression.

Papua New Guinea is a captivating destination for adventure lovers. It offers incredible experiences like trekking the famous Kokoda Track and exploring diverse marine life. This island nation is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

One top activity is hiking the Kokoda Track. This 60-mile trail follows the historic World War II battle paths. It’s a challenging trek that lets you dive into the region’s rich history. You’ll learn about the sacrifice and resilience of local communities as you go.

For those aiming to reach Oceania’s highest peak, summiting Mount Wilhelm is a must. This 4,509-meter peak offers stunning views and a great sense of achievement. Climbers need to be well-prepared due to the high altitude.

• Dive among WWII wrecks and vibrant coral reefs to see the country’s underwater history and marine life.
• Experience the cultural traditions of indigenous communities, including colorful festivals and ancient rituals.
• Discover Papua New Guinea’s natural wonders, like lush jungles, volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and waterfalls.

Papua New Guinea has a wide range of experiences for those seeking adventure or cultural immersion. It’s a destination that will leave you amazed by its unique beauty and rich culture.

“Papua New Guinea is a land of untamed beauty, where the ancient and the modern coexist in perfect harmony. It’s a place that challenges and captivates, leaving an indelible mark on the heart and soul of every traveler who dares to venture forth.”

Papua New Guinea is known for its amazing cultural diversity. It has over 800 languages and thousands of cultural groups. By attending the country’s festivals, you can see the vibrant costumes, drumming, and singing. These traditions are deeply rooted in the area’s culture.

The Goroka Show, Mt Hagen Show, and Hiri Moale festival are must-sees. They show the ancient customs and beliefs of Papua New Guineans. Performers wear their finest bilas (costumes) and dance, chant, and perform rituals.

At the Enga Cultural Show, the Engans show their old practices. This helps keep their unique identity alive for the future. The Kutubu Kundu and Digaso Festival also celebrates the Kutubu people’s traditions. They show off their woodcarving, weaving, and ceremonies.

“Papua New Guinea is a kaleidoscope of cultures, where the rhythms of ancient traditions echo through the verdant landscapes and vibrant festivals.”

Experience the cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea. Let these festivals take you to a world where old customs and new life blend together.

Discover the rich history of East New Britain, a province in Papua New Guinea. It’s a place where nature’s power and war’s impact are clear. Learn about its volcanic history and its role in World War II. Dive into the culture of Rabaul and Kokopo to understand their stories.

Visit the Rabaul Historical Museum and the Kokopo War Museum to learn about WWII. See the underground tunnels where over 100,000 Japanese troops hid. This shows the area’s military importance.

Also, don’t miss the Frangipani Festival in Rabaul. It’s a celebration of the area’s bounce back after the 1994 eruptions of Vulcan and Tavurvur.

East New Britain’s history is fascinating, blending WWII and volcanic history. It’s a unique chance to explore and learn about Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea is a place full of adventure and culture for brave travelers. You can trek the famous Kokoda Track or climb the highest peak in Oceania. The country also offers a chance to see diverse marine life and join in on lively festivals.

This island nation is a hidden treasure for those who love nature, history, or cultural experiences. Papua New Guinea has something special for everyone. It’s a place that will amaze and inspire you.

The country’s varied landscapes, deep culture, and rich history make it enchanting. As you discover its treasures, you’ll learn about its people’s strength, creativity, and hospitality. Papua New Guinea offers unique experiences that will stay with you forever.

So, get ready for an amazing trip to this island nation. Papua New Guinea is waiting to show you its secrets. It promises to leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.