Port Moresby is home to 200,000 people, with 700 diverse languages and cultures.

The town consists of a complex traditional society formed by historical bonds between the traditional land owners, the coastal Motuans and the inland Koitabu. Port Moresby fluctuates from the hustle of commercialisation to the serenity of a country town. Downtown at the waterside is the nostalgic Port Moresby.

At the entrance of Fairfax Harbour are Lolorua and Daugo (Fishermen’s) Islands, favourite picnic areas for sailors. Beautiful views from Paga Point overlook Ela Beach and Koki Point. Juxtaposed to the metropolis is the partly stilt-based Hanuabada Village.

Burnt down after WWII, the big village was rebuilt by the Australian Administration. Despite cosmetic changes, the character of the village is still there and is renowned for elaborate ceremonies. Koki market on the waterfront is a favourite for trade in fresh seafood and has a colourful fruit and vegetable market. Be sure to visit PNG Arts and Beyond Art, to see PNG’s largest collection of tribal artefacts.

The National Parliament, a symbol of modern architecture, contrasts with the dignity of traditional design at The National Museum and Art Gallery. The first permanent display of local artefacts was established here in 1978 and is well worth a visit. Located on the slopes of Independence Hill at Waigani, it’s open weekdays and Sunday afternoons.

In September join in the celebrations of the Hiri Moale Festival to commemorate the historical trade between villagers around the Gulf Province and the Motuans and Koitabuans of Central Province. The festival features canoe races, processions, choirs, string bands, sing-sings and the Hiri Queen contest.The Sogeri Plateau (46 kilometres from Port Moresby) is where the Kokoda Trail became the centre of war between Japanese and Allied Troops during WWII.

Variarata National Park is a spectacular mountain region, with views over Port Moresby and the coastline. If you get up early enough, you can catch the mist blanketing the ranges.

Westbound from Port Moresby is the Hiritano Highway, connecting the city with Bereina, home of the Kairuku and Mekeo people. The Mekeos are renowned for their strong chieftain system and grand traditional costumes.

Activities in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby is located at the edge of the Papuan Barrier Reef, which is full of wonderful diving sites. There is a dive center on Loloata Island where you can rent diving gear but you have to be certified diver.

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Port Moresby’s Cuisine

The staple diet of the Papua New Guineans consists of starchy vegetables like taro, sweet potato, breadfruit, wild sago and yams. Hotels and restaurants do serve western food (especially those that cater to tourists), so getting a good western meal won’t be a problem. The food is super cheap though the alcohol is expensive.

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Exploring Port Moresby

The most famous landmark in the city is the Port Moresby Nature Park (formerly called the National Botanical Gardens). If you want to see a cassowary, the famed flightless bird, this is your chance. The park is also home to wallabies, birds of paradise and other beautiful creatures.

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