Mid-Range Travel Guide: Papuanewguinea

Accommodation

$60-140 per night

Mid-range hotels, private rooms with air conditioning, decent amenities, tourist-friendly areas

Food & Dining

$25-55 per day

Mix of local restaurants and hotel dining, fresh seafood, international cuisine options, occasional fine dining

Transportation

$20-50 per day

Mix of taxis and public transport, occasional domestic flights, airport transfers, rental car for day trips

Activities

$30-80 per day

Guided cultural tours, diving/snorkeling trips, national park entries, traditional performances, craft workshops

Eat at local markets and street stalls instead of tourist restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)

Use public PMV buses for city transport instead of taxis (usually 80-90% savings)

Stay in local guesthouses outside main tourist areas (generally 40-60% less expensive)

Book domestic flights well in advance during low season (can save 30-50%)

Join group tours rather than private tours (typically 50-70% cost reduction)

Shop at local markets for souvenirs instead of hotel gift shops (usually 70-80% cheaper)

Travel during dry season shoulder months for better accommodation rates (generally 20-40% lower)

Relying only on taxis and private transport instead of learning the PMV system (can triple transportation costs)

Eating exclusively at hotels and tourist restaurants (typically doubles food expenses)

Not factoring in the high cost of domestic flights between provinces (can add $200-500 per flight)

Underestimating activity costs - many experiences require guides and permits (diving, trekking, cultural visits often $50-200+ per day)

Not budgeting for tips and custom fees which are expected in many situations (can add 15-25% to activity costs)