— Papua New Guinea —

About Papua New Guinea, Pacific

Papua New Guinea: A Journey Through Uncharted Diversity in 2024

Papua New Guinea (PNG), a land of striking contrasts and unspoiled beauty, continues to captivate travelers seeking authentic experiences in 2024. As one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations, with over 800 indigenous languages and countless traditional societies, PNG offers an unparalleled adventure into both nature and culture. While tourism infrastructure is steadily improving, the industry remains relatively young, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to explore untouched landscapes and engage with vibrant traditions away from crowded tourist trails.

Nestled on the eastern half of the island of New Guinea—the world’s second-largest island—PNG’s geography is as diverse as its people. The country sits precariously on the Pacific Ring of Fire, resulting in a dramatic landscape shaped by volcanic activity and tectonic movements. Towering mountain peaks cloaked in misty rainforests give way to fertile valleys, while pristine beaches and coral-fringed islands dot the coastline. Beneath the surface, the underwater world mirrors this topography with majestic coral gardens, teeming marine life, and World War II shipwrecks waiting to be explored.

Major Cities and Regions

Port Moresby

The capital city serves as the primary gateway to PNG. Located on the southern coast, it offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional culture. Visitors can explore the National Museum and Art Gallery, wander through vibrant markets, or relax at Ela Beach.

Lae

The country’s second-largest city and an important industrial hub. Situated at the mouth of the Markham River, Lae is the starting point for journeys into the highlands and the Huon Peninsula.

Madang

Renowned for its picturesque harbor adorned with lush tropical vegetation. Diving enthusiasts flock here to explore its coral reefs and the 34 sunken ships from World War II.

  • Contact Information:

Goroka and Mount Hagen

Centers of cultural significance in the highlands. These towns host annual cultural shows, such as the Goroka Show and the Mount Hagen Cultural Show.

  • Contact Information:
    • Goroka Show Society
    • Mount Hagen Cultural Show Committee
      • Phone: +675 542 1180

Sepik Region

Towns like Wewak and Vanimo are famed for intricate art and carvings. The mighty Sepik River supports a way of life deeply connected to its rhythms.

The People

PNG’s people are predominantly Melanesian, but the nation’s cultural tapestry includes Micronesian, Polynesian, Chinese, and European influences. The sheer number of languages spoken makes it one of the most linguistically diverse countries on the planet. Tok Pisin (Melanesian Pidgin) and Hiri Motu are widely used lingua francas, while English serves as the official language in government and education.

Nature and Wildlife

Designated as a megadiverse country, PNG boasts an incredible array of flora and fauna. Its rainforests are home to unique species found nowhere else. Wildlife enthusiasts can encounter approximately 242 species of mammals and 762 bird species, including the spectacular Birds of Paradise.

Activities and Adventures

  • Trekking: The famous Kokoda Track is a challenging trail steeped in World War II history.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Explore coral reefs and historical wrecks in Madang, Kimbe Bay, and Kavieng.
  • Cultural Festivals: Attend sing-sings and cultural shows in Goroka or Mount Hagen.
  • Bird Watching: Guided tours to spot rare and endemic species.

Getting Around

Due to the challenging terrain, air travel is the most efficient way to move between regions. Domestic flights connect major towns and remote areas.

Food and Entertainment

PNG’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional and international influences. Staples include taro, yams, sweet potatoes, sago, and fresh seafood.

Shopping Guide

Shopping for souvenirs is an opportunity to support local artisans:

  • Craft Markets:
    • Ela Beach Craft Market (Port Moresby)
      • Held: Last Saturday of every month
      • Contact: Via PNG Tourism Promotion Authority
  • Jais Aben Resort (Madang): Offers local crafts and artwork.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

PNG experiences a tropical climate:

  • Coastal Areas: Warm and humid, temperatures from 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F).
  • Highlands: Cooler temperatures between 14°C to 28°C (57°F to 82°F), with chilly nights.
  • Best Time to Visit: During the dry season from May to October.

Important Contacts and Information

Emergency Services

  • General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 111

Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority

Major Hospitals

  • Port Moresby General Hospital
    • Address: Hospital Road, Korobosea, Port Moresby
    • Phone: +675 324 8200
  • Pacific International Hospital

Embassies and Consulates in Papua New Guinea

  • Australian High Commission
    • Address: Godwit Road, Waigani, Port Moresby
    • Phone: +675 7090 0100
    • Email: [email protected]
  • United States Embassy
  • British High Commission
    • Address: Level 7, Pacific Place, Port Moresby
    • Phone: +675 303 7600
    • Email: [email protected]

Airlines and Airports

  • Air Niugini
  • PNG Air
  • Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby)
    • Information Desk: +675 324 4705

Important Local Contacts

  • Police Headquarters
    • Phone: +675 324 4200
  • Tourist Police (Port Moresby)
    • Phone: +675 320 2633
  • International SOS Port Moresby Clinic

Travel Tips

  • Visas: Check entry requirements before traveling. Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance. Contact the Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority:
  • Health Precautions: Consult a healthcare provider for vaccinations and advice on malaria prophylaxis. Carry necessary medications and practice standard health precautions.
  • Respect Local Customs: Always ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites. Modest dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas. Use reputable tour operators and guides.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Kina (PGK), divided into 100 toea. Major towns have banking facilities and ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in urban areas.

Conclusion

In 2024, Papua New Guinea stands as a frontier for travelers yearning for authentic experiences. Its untouched landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality offer a journey unlike any other. Whether trekking through misty mountains, diving into vibrant coral reefs, or sharing in the rhythms of a village sing-sing, PNG invites you to be part of its ongoing story—a story of diversity, resilience, and endless discovery.

For more information and assistance in planning your trip, contact:

Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, contact details may change. It is advisable to verify details with the respective organizations before making travel arrangements.

Culture of Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is an anthropologist's dream come true. The country is home to hundreds of tribes. Between them, they speak upwards of 700 languages and dialects. The most popular languages in Papua New Guinea are English, Tok Pisin and Hiri Motu. English is widely spoken but the country's lingua franca is Tok Pisin.

Most of the country's seven million people still live in the rural areas. Just 18% of Papua New Guineans live in cities. Even then, the Papua New Guineans are very hospitable and friendly and ready to help strangers. Do dress conservatively when in Papua New Guinea because it will help you fit in with the culture better.

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Exploring Papua New Guinea

papua village

Papua New Guinea is one of the last unspoiled natural spaces in the world. The country is largely untouched by western civilization and is teeming with natural vegetation, plants and animals. Towering volcanic peaks, beautiful beaches, pristine rainforests, mountains and valleys. The world famous Kokoda trail, stretching for more than 60 km, is also located here. The trail snakes it way from the south (from Port Moresby) to Owens Corner in the North.

Mount Wilmelm is the highest mountain in Port Moresby, standing at 14,000 ft above sea level. There are two trails leading to the top and it can take you up to 3 days to reach there. If you visit Lae, don't forget to visit the rainforest surrounding the city.

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Papua New Guinea’s Food & Beverage

The staple diet of Papua New Guinea consists of tubers, yams and taro; basically a number of starchy vegetables. The major livestock in Papua New Guinea is the pig, so pork is the most common meat. Still, meat makes a miniscule portion of the average Papua New Guinean's diet and it is cooked only on special occasions. People living near the coast have a preference for seafood.

Papua New Guineans are have something called ‘Melanesian time', which means things will be done in their preferred timing therefore if you go to a restaurant, expect to be served late. If local food does not agree with you, there are other western options available in the capital. Food is relatively cheap in Papua New Guinea and should you get to know some locals, they might even invite you home for a home cooked meal.

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Social Life and Culture

papua new guinea port moresby

Papua New Guineans are known for their wood carvings. The carvings are usually of animals and plants because the Papua New Guineans believe that the creatures were their ancestors at one time. The country also has a very old tradition of visual arts.

Christianity is the major religion (96% of the people identify with one or the other branch of Christianity) on the islands but it is very animistic. Papua New Guineans have created their own special brand of Christianity, infused with tribal elements therfore ritual dances and local festivals are very popular.

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Transportation

papua new guinea port moresby loloata island resort speedboat

Most of Papua New Guinea is mountainous terrain. There are very few private cars and the most popular way to travel around is by public motor vehicle. Traveling is very cheap but the only drawback is these vehicles are very crowded.

Finding these public vehicles are relatively simply. You just have to turn up at the spot. The vehicle will usually wait till it is full and they won't move for you or anyone. Some places are covered only once a day especially the rural areas. So make sure that you know when the transport is arriving (or leaving). Otherwise, you will be stuck for another day.

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Important To Bring

Papua New Guinea is known for being an affordable tourist destination, with tourists from Japan, Australia and South East Asia thronging its shores. Visa is a must for every foreign national who wishes to enter Papua New Guinea. Some foreign tourists are eligible for visa on arrival.

You can enter Papua New Guinea by plane, boat or by road. If you are coming by road, you will have to cross over at Papua (Irian Jaya, Indonesia). This may involve a bit of preparation. But if you are entering from here, the tourist visa is free of charge.

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Where to Stay

Trans Niugini Tours
With over 45 years of expertise in cultural tours, trekking, ecological tours, wilderness adventures and cultural events, Trans Niugini Tours offers a number of options for experiencing Papua New Guinea's unspoiled ... View More »
Loloata Island Resort
Loloata Island Resort is a contemporary new 68-room resort, complete with two restaurants, a swimming pool, recreational beach, spa, conference centre and 22 eye-catching modern overwater villas. Importantly, it... View More »

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