Papua New Guinea: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Planning Your Journey to Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea sits just north of Australia, sharing the island of New Guinea with Indonesia. Most international visitors arrive via Port Moresby, the capital city, with regular flights from Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. The country consists of the mainland and over 600 islands scattered throughout the Pacific Ocean.

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Papua New Guinea need a visa. Most nationalities must arrange their visa before traveling, which can be done through an online application. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks, so plan accordingly. Tourist visas are usually valid for 60 days and allow for single or multiple entries depending on your application.

Budget Considerations

Unlike many developing countries, Papua New Guinea is not a budget destination. Expect to pay prices similar to Australia for accommodations and imported goods. Limited tourist infrastructure and transportation challenges contribute to higher costs. Budget travelers should plan for at least $100-150 USD per day, while those seeking more comfort should budget $200-300 USD daily.

Best Time to Visit Papua New Guinea

The optimal time to visit Papua New Guinea is between April and October during the dry season. While rain occurs year-round in this tropical climate, these months offer the most favorable conditions for exploring. The coastal areas maintain an average temperature of around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year with high humidity, while the Highlands regions are warm during the day but cooler at night.

If you’re interested in surfing, November to April offers the best conditions, while diving is possible year-round with varying visibility depending on the region. The wettest months are December to March, when some tour operators, especially along the Kokoda Track, may not operate at all.

Getting Around Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea’s mountainous terrain limits road networks, making air travel the primary mode of transportation between regions. With over 500 airports (though only a few dozen have paved runways), domestic flights are essential for covering significant distances. Air Niugini and PNG Air operate regular services between major destinations.

For shorter distances, Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs) – typically minibuses or trucks – provide local transportation. In coastal areas and between islands, boats are common but schedules can be unpredictable. When planning your itinerary, allow extra time for delays and cancellations – “PNG time” means everything moves at a relaxed pace.

Where to Stay in Papua New Guinea

Accommodation options in Papua New Guinea range from international hotels in Port Moresby to eco-lodges and homestays in remote areas. In the capital, you’ll find familiar chains and business hotels, though prices are higher than you might expect, starting around $150-200 USD per night for basic comfort.

For a more authentic experience, consider staying at specialized dive resorts in Kimbe Bay or Kavieng, wilderness lodges in the Highlands, or village homestays along the Sepik River. These options not only provide unique cultural insights but often include guided activities and meals in their packages.

11 Best Things to Do in Papua New Guinea

1. Trek the Kokoda Track

The Kokoda Track is Papua New Guinea’s most famous trekking route and a pilgrimage for many Australians. This 96-kilometer trail follows the path of an important WWII battle between Japanese and Australian forces. The challenging 8-day trek traverses the Owen Stanley Range through muddy paths, steep ridges, and dense jungle, offering both historical significance and physical challenge.

Most trekkers arrange their journey through specialized tour operators who provide guides, porters, and necessary permits. The best time to attempt the Kokoda Track is during the dry season (April-October), as heavy rains can make the already difficult trail nearly impassable.

2. Climb Mount Wilhelm

For the ultimate adventure seekers, climbing Mount Wilhelm (4,509m) – the highest peak in Oceania – offers an unforgettable challenge. The two-day trek begins at Betty’s Lodge in Kegsugl and involves camping at base camp before a pre-dawn summit attempt. The reward? Spectacular sunrise views across Papua New Guinea and the satisfaction of conquering a significant peak.

While technically not requiring specialized climbing equipment, the altitude, cold temperatures, and challenging terrain demand good physical fitness and proper preparation. Most climbers arrange guides through local tour operators who can organize transportation, accommodations, and necessary permissions from local landowners.

3. Experience the Mount Hagen Cultural Show

The Mount Hagen Cultural Show, held annually in August, is one of the world’s most spectacular cultural festivals. Over 100 tribes gather in their finest traditional dress to perform songs and dances that have been passed down through generations. The explosion of color, sound, and movement makes this a photographer’s dream and a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.

Tickets to the show sell out months in advance, so early planning is essential. Many tour operators offer packages that include show tickets, accommodations, and transportation. The Goroka Show in September offers a similar experience if your travel dates don’t align with the Mount Hagen event.

4. Explore the Sepik River

The mighty Sepik River winds through Papua New Guinea’s northern regions, serving as a lifeline for the diverse communities that call its banks home. A river expedition offers glimpses into traditional village life, opportunities to purchase exquisite carvings directly from master artisans, and visits to spirit houses (Haus Tambaran) where ancient rituals still take place.

Most visitors arrange multi-day boat trips with guides who can facilitate appropriate cultural interactions and navigate the complex river system. Accommodations range from basic village guesthouses to more comfortable river vessels, depending on your budget and preferences.

5. Dive in Kimbe Bay

Kimbe Bay on the island of New Britain offers some of the world’s most pristine diving. With over 900 fish species and 400 coral species recorded, this biodiversity hotspot features everything from vibrant reefs to WWII wrecks. The minimal tourist presence means you’ll often have dive sites entirely to yourself.

Walindi Plantation Resort serves as the main base for diving operations in the area, offering comfortable accommodations, professional dive services, and packages that include boat transportation to the best sites. The diving is excellent year-round, though visibility is typically best from October to April.

6. Visit Rabaul and Its Volcanoes

The town of Rabaul on New Britain island sits within a spectacular caldera surrounded by active volcanoes. The most accessible, Mount Tavurvur, offers adventurous visitors the chance to hike to its crater when conditions permit. The lunar-like landscape of black volcanic sand contrasts dramatically with the turquoise harbor waters.

Beyond volcanic exploration, Rabaul provides fascinating WWII history with Japanese tunnels, bunkers, and wrecks scattered throughout the area. Local guides can take you to these historical sites and explain their significance in the Pacific campaign.

7. Discover WWII Relics

Papua New Guinea was a significant battleground during World War II, and evidence of this conflict remains scattered across the country. From plane wrecks in the jungles of New Britain to sunken ships in the harbors of Rabaul and Kavieng, history enthusiasts will find plenty to explore.

The Kokoda Track Memorial Museum in Port Moresby provides historical context, while specialized tours can take you to less accessible sites. Many of these locations require local guides both for navigation and to respect landowner permissions.

8. Experience Village Life

For an authentic cultural experience, arrange a village stay in one of Papua New Guinea’s traditional communities. Whether in the Highlands, along the Sepik River, or on a remote island, these homestays offer insights into daily life, traditional crafts, and customs that have remained largely unchanged for generations.

Village stays are typically arranged through tour operators who have established relationships with communities. Expect basic accommodations and facilities, but the cultural exchange and warm hospitality more than compensate for any lack of modern conveniences.

9. Relax in Tropical Island Paradise

With hundreds of islands and a coastline stretching over 5,000 kilometers, Papua New Guinea offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Duke of York Islands near Rabaul, Loloata Island near Port Moresby, and the islands off Kavieng provide idyllic settings for relaxation after more adventurous activities.

Many coastal resorts offer packages that include island-hopping excursions, snorkeling trips, and cultural visits to nearby villages. These tranquil settings showcase a different side of Papua New Guinea away from the rugged mountains and dense jungles.

10. Bird Watching in Tari Basin

Papua New Guinea is a bird watcher’s paradise, home to 38 of the world’s 43 known Birds of Paradise species. The Tari Basin in the Southern Highlands offers some of the best opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures, along with hundreds of other exotic bird species.

Specialized lodges like Ambua Lodge provide expert guides who know exactly where and when to find particular species. Early morning excursions yield the best sightings, as many birds perform their elaborate mating displays at dawn.

11. Visit the National Museum in Port Moresby

Before venturing into the provinces, spend time at the National Museum in Port Moresby to gain context for your journey. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from across Papua New Guinea’s many cultural groups, including elaborate masks, traditional currency, ceremonial objects, and contemporary art.

Located near the Parliament House, the museum provides an excellent introduction to the country’s cultural diversity and artistic traditions. Guided tours offer additional insights into the significance of key pieces in the collection.

Practical Tips for Visiting Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea Cuisine

Papua New Guinea cuisine centers around staple crops like sweet potato (kaukau), taro, sago, and tropical fruits. The traditional cooking method called “mumu” involves food wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with hot stones in an earth oven, creating tender, flavorful dishes.

In coastal areas, fresh seafood features prominently, while in the Highlands, occasional feasts include pork as the centerpiece. In urban areas like Port Moresby, you’ll find excellent Asian restaurants reflecting the country’s proximity to Southeast Asia.

Communication and Connectivity

While major hotels in Port Moresby offer reliable WiFi, connectivity becomes increasingly limited as you venture into provinces. Purchase a Digicel SIM card upon arrival for the best mobile coverage, though service remains patchy in remote areas.

English is one of Papua New Guinea’s official languages, along with Tok Pisin (pidgin) and Hiri Motu. In urban areas, many people speak English, but in rural regions, communication may rely more on Tok Pisin or local languages. Learning a few basic Tok Pisin phrases shows respect and helps facilitate connections with local people.

Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?

Papua New Guinea offers intrepid travelers experiences that simply can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. From witnessing ancient cultural traditions and exploring pristine ecosystems to challenging yourself on rugged treks and discovering underwater wonders, this “Land of the Unexpected” delivers adventures that will stay with you long after you return home.

While traveling in Papua New Guinea requires more planning and flexibility than many destinations, those who embrace its challenges are rewarded with authentic experiences far from the tourist crowds. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, natural wonders, historical insights, or simply the thrill of exploring one of the world’s last frontiers, Papua New Guinea awaits with open arms and endless discoveries.