• Hire a Local Guide: Many parts of PNG are remote, and a local guide offers safety, insight, and connection with the communities.
• Learn Basic Pidgin (Tok Pisin): Greeting locals in Tok Pisin with “monin” (good morning) or “tenkyu” (thank you) is appreciated and breaks the ice.
• Pack for the Tropics: Light, breathable clothing is best, along with rain gear and sturdy boots if you plan to hike or visit rural areas.
• Respect Local Customs: Each region has distinct customs, so always ask before taking photos and respect restricted areas and sacred sites.
• Carry Cash: ATMs and card services are limited outside of Port Moresby, so it’s essential to bring cash for rural travel and local markets.
• Plan Ahead for Connectivity: Internet is limited in rural areas; consider buying a local SIM for Port Moresby but expect low connectivity elsewhere.
• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: If diving or snorkeling, help protect the marine life by using eco-friendly sunscreen, especially around coral reefs.
• Stay on Paths: PNG’s natural landscapes are rugged, and staying on trails is important to avoid unsafe terrain or disturbing wildlife.
• Attend Local Festivals: Events like the Mount Hagen Cultural Show provide insight into PNG’s diverse cultures and are a must for cultural enthusiasts.
• Pack Light for Village Visits: When visiting rural villages, pack small items like insect repellent or snacks, but avoid bringing valuables or bulky luggage.

What is Papua New Guinea known for?
Papua New Guinea is known for its extraordinary cultural diversity, natural beauty, and vibrant festivals. With over 800 languages spoken, PNG is one of the most culturally rich countries globally. The island’s rugged mountains, dense rainforests, and stunning coral reefs draw nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The Kokoda Track, Coral Triangle, and traditional tribal ceremonies like the Asaro Mudmen and Goroka Show make PNG an enticing destination for those seeking unique experiences.

Is Papua New Guinea a good destination for families?
Yes, Papua New Guinea can be family-friendly, especially for adventurous families interested in nature and cultural experiences. The Port Moresby Nature Park, local markets, and beaches offer family-friendly attractions. While some rural areas can be challenging to navigate, guided tours provide safe and organized ways to explore the islands. Families should plan ahead for transportation, healthcare, and accommodations to ensure a smooth experience.

Is Papua New Guinea safe for tourists?
While generally safe, visitors should be cautious and travel with a guide, particularly in remote areas. Some areas of PNG experience law and order challenges, so sticking to well-traveled regions like Port Moresby, Rabaul, and popular diving spots is advised. Guided tours are highly recommended, as local knowledge enhances safety and provides cultural insights. Basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas and carrying limited cash, are advised.

Do you need a visa to visit Papua New Guinea?
Yes, most travelers, including those from the U.S., EU, Australia, and New Zealand, need a visa to enter PNG. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival for some nationalities or via an eVisa online. Visitors should check entry requirements based on their nationality, ensuring they have a valid passport, return ticket, and sufficient funds for their stay.

What is the best way to get to Papua New Guinea?
Flying into Jacksons International Airport (POM) in Port Moresby is the main way to reach PNG, with direct flights from Australia, Singapore, the Philippines, and other Pacific nations. Once in PNG, domestic flights connect to other regions, including Rabaul, Madang, and Mount Hagen. Small planes, boats, and buses are used for inter-island and rural transport, making Port Moresby the key access point.

Should I rent a car in Papua New Guinea?
Renting a car is possible in Port Moresby but is generally not recommended for rural areas due to road conditions and safety concerns. Public transportation is limited, and guided tours or private transfers are better for reaching remote areas. Port Moresby and Lae have rental options, but travelers should be aware of local driving conditions, as roads can be rugged and signs minimal.

Is Papua New Guinea wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited in PNG, especially in rural and mountainous areas. However, Port Moresby offers some wheelchair-friendly accommodations and public spaces. For travelers with mobility needs, contacting hotels and tour operators ahead of time is recommended to confirm accessible facilities, as infrastructure varies widely across the country.

What are Papua New Guinea’s most famous landmarks?
Famous landmarks include the Kokoda Track, Mount Wilhelm, and Sepik River for cultural and natural exploration. Other highlights are Port Moresby’s Nature Park, Rabaul Volcano, and the Trobriand Islands, each offering unique insight into PNG’s culture and biodiversity. These landmarks reflect the island’s natural beauty and historic significance, making it an unforgettable destination for adventurous travelers.

What are the best beaches in Papua New Guinea?
Top beaches include Ela Beach in Port Moresby, Nusa Island Retreat near Kavieng, and Madang’s volcanic beaches, all offering clear waters and coral reefs. Milne Bay is known for its stunning dive sites, while Loloata Island near Port Moresby offers a secluded beach atmosphere with easy access to marine life. These beaches are ideal for relaxation, snorkeling, and diving.

What is unique about Papua New Guinea’s wildlife?
PNG’s wildlife includes unique species like the tree kangaroo, cassowary, and several types of birds of paradise, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. The Coral Triangle, which encompasses PNG’s waters, supports rich marine life, including rare corals, manta rays, and whale sharks. In rainforests and highlands, visitors may encounter unique plants and animals, such as orchids, flying foxes, and the cuscus.

What traditional foods should you try in Papua New Guinea?
Traditional foods include mumu, a dish cooked in an earth oven with pork, sweet potatoes, and greens, and kaukau, or roasted sweet potatoes. Fish, coconut, and sago are common ingredients, reflecting PNG’s natural resources. Local snacks like taro chips and pandanus fruit are also widely enjoyed, offering a taste of authentic island cuisine.

Can you drink tap water in Papua New Guinea?
Tap water is generally not safe to drink, and bottled water is recommended throughout PNG. Many hotels provide filtered water, and bottled water is widely available in urban areas. In rural areas, visitors should bring bottled or treated water to avoid health risks. Staying hydrated is important in PNG’s tropical climate, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.

What is the nightlife like in Papua New Guinea?
Nightlife is limited and generally low-key, with a few bars, restaurants, and hotel lounges in Port Moresby. Some cultural events and festivals provide lively evening entertainment, including traditional dance performances. Safety should be a priority at night, so sticking to reputable venues and traveling in groups is recommended. The nightlife may not be vibrant, but it offers authentic cultural experiences.

How can I stay connected to the internet in Papua New Guinea?
Internet is available in most hotels and cafes in Port Moresby, but speeds are generally slow and coverage limited outside major towns. Buying a local SIM card with data is a good option for staying connected in urban areas. In rural regions, however, connectivity is often unavailable, making PNG an ideal place to unplug and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Papua New Guinea?
Popular souvenirs include hand-carved wooden masks, bilum bags, woven baskets, and shell jewelry, each reflecting PNG’s artistic heritage. Items like the intricate carvings from the Sepik River region and traditional necklaces make unique mementos. Local crafts embody the spirit and culture of PNG, offering meaningful and memorable gifts for travelers.

1. Monin – Good morning (Tok Pisin)
2. Tenkyu – Thank you (Tok Pisin)
3. Wanem – What? (Tok Pisin)
4. Pikinini – Child or children (Tok Pisin)
5. Bikpela – Big or large (Tok Pisin)
6. Kai kai – Food or to eat (Tok Pisin)
7. Haus – House or building (Tok Pisin)
8. Toktok – To talk or speak (Tok Pisin)
9. Solwara – Sea or ocean (Tok Pisin)
10. Bilum – Woven bag used in daily life
11. Liklik – Small or little (Tok Pisin)
12. Lukim yu – Goodbye or see you (Tok Pisin)
13. Nogat – No (Tok Pisin)
14. Susu – Milk or breastfeeding (Tok Pisin)
15. Kaikai – Food or to eat (Tok Pisin)
16. Diwai – Tree or wood (Tok Pisin)
17. Lapun – Old or elderly person (Tok Pisin)
18. Sing sing – Dance or celebration (Tok Pisin)
19. Tanim tok – Translate (Tok Pisin)
20. Manmeri – People (Tok Pisin)

• Sir Michael Somare: Known as the “Father of the Nation,” he led PNG to independence in 1975 and served as its first prime minister.
• Meagan Paschal: A contemporary artist whose work reflects PNG’s indigenous heritage, focusing on cultural and environmental themes.
• Joseph Kabui: A prominent leader from Bougainville who played a major role in Bougainville’s push for independence and local autonomy.
• Sir Julius Chan: A key political figure in PNG, having served as prime minister and leading economic reforms.
• Papua New Guinea Hunters Rugby Team: Known for their success in the Queensland Cup, the Hunters have become icons of national pride.
• Michael Marum: A renowned rugby league coach who has helped elevate PNG’s profile in the sport internationally.
• Bernard Narokobi: A philosopher, writer, and advocate for Melanesian culture, who worked to preserve PNG’s indigenous identity.
• Lucy Maino: Former Miss Papua New Guinea and advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and youth development in the Pacific.
• Kumul Warriors: A group of brave WWII soldiers who defended PNG against Japanese forces and are celebrated for their heroism.
• Arnold Amet: A prominent judge and former attorney general known for his contributions to PNG’s legal system and constitutional law.

• Black Harvest: A documentary following PNG coffee farmers, capturing social and economic challenges faced in highland communities.
• First Contact: A landmark documentary capturing the first interaction between highlanders and Europeans in the 1930s, providing rare cultural insight.
• Goroka Show (Documentary): A film highlighting the famous Goroka cultural festival, with stunning visuals of traditional dances and costumes.
• Mr. Pip: Based on a novel, this drama was partially filmed in Bougainville, depicting the impacts of the Bougainville Civil War.
• Kokoda: A historical film about the WWII Kokoda Campaign, set against the dense and challenging landscapes of PNG.
• Headhunter Revisited: A documentary retracing the journeys of Caroline Mytinger, an artist who documented PNG’s people and culture in the 1920s.
• Cannibal Tours: A documentary exploring the interactions between tourists and indigenous communities in PNG, offering a thought-provoking cultural perspective.
• Tales of the South Pacific: A TV series exploring Pacific cultures, with segments filmed in PNG focusing on indigenous customs and coastal beauty.
• Lost in Papua: A German reality TV show set in PNG, featuring its exotic landscapes and unique cultural practices.
• PNG Paradise: A documentary showcasing the natural beauty and rich traditions of PNG’s islands, wildlife, and marine ecosystems.