Things to Do in Papua New Guinea

About Papua New Guinea

Over 800 languages survive here—more than any country its size on Earth. Papua New Guinea doesn't cater to tourists. Ancient traditions thrive in rainforests and along coral-rimmed coasts where modernity barely registers. Headhunting ancestors left stories that elders still tell near spirit houses. Birds-of-great destination fill the canopy. Tribal ceremonies happen in remote highlands you can only reach by small plane. The geography is extreme. The Bismarck Sea holds volcanic islands, while the Owen Stanley Range towers inland—cultural authenticity meets untouched wilderness with no compromise. You can watch a sing-sing festival where warriors wear cassowary feathers and pig tusks, celebrating harvest rituals unchanged for centuries. Then dive World War II wrecks the next day in clear water thick with fish. This is raw adventure travel. Every encounter feels like discovery, and sunsets glow above villages that operate on their own clock.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book domestic flights with Air Niugini or PNG Air well in advance, as routes are limited and weather-dependent. Roads outside Port Moresby are often impassable; helicopter transfers are common for remote lodges. Always travel with reputable tour operators for safety.

Money: Bring US dollars or Australian dollars for easy exchange to Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK). ATMs are scarce outside major cities. Credit cards accepted only at upscale hotels. Budget 20% extra for cash-only transactions in rural areas.

Cultural Respect: Never photograph people without permission; offer small payment if requested. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering homes. Avoid pointing with your finger – use an open hand gesture instead. Learn basic Tok Pisin phrases.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice. Choose freshly cooked, hot foods from busy vendors. Try sago, sweet potato, and fresh fish, but avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits. Antimalarial medication essential; consult travel doctor before departure.

When to Visit

Papua New Guinea's tropical climate offers two distinct seasons, each with unique advantages. The dry season (May-October) brings the most comfortable conditions with temperatures averaging 24-28°C, minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and lower humidity – ideal for trekking, diving, and cultural festivals. This peak season sees accommodation prices increase 30-40%, requiring advance bookings. The wet season (November-April) features higher temperatures (26-32°C), heavy rainfall (200-400mm monthly), and spectacular thunderstorms, but offers lush landscapes and 20-25% lower prices. March-April can be particularly humid and cyclone-prone along the coast. For cultural ensoiasts, time visits around major festivals: Mount Hagen Cultural Show (mid-August), Goroka Show (September 16-17), and Mask Festival in East New Britain (July). Divers should target April-May and September-November for optimal visibility. Highland trekkers prefer June-September for clearer mountain views, while lowland explorers might enjoy February-March when bird activity peaks despite occasional downpours. Budget travelers benefit from shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November) with moderate weather and 15-20% savings on accommodations.