Things to Do in Madang, Papuanewguinea

Madang, often called the 'prettiest town in the Pacific,' is Papua New Guinea's coastal gem located on the country's northeast coast. This picturesque harbor town serves as the capital of Madang Province and is renowned for its stunning natural harbor, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. The town sits on a peninsula surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it one of PNG's premier diving and snorkeling destinations. Beyond its marine attractions, Madang offers visitors a unique blend of Melanesian culture, German colonial history, and modern PNG life. The town serves as a gateway to some of the country's most spectacular natural wonders, including pristine rainforests, traditional villages, and world-class dive sites. With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and stunning tropical scenery, Madang provides an authentic Pacific island experience away from the crowds of more commercialized destinations.

Top Things to Do in Madang

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Madang is considered one of the world's top diving destinations, featuring pristine coral reefs, WWII wrecks, and incredible marine biodiversity. The waters around Madang offer visibility up to 40 meters and host over 200 species of fish, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Popular dive sites include the B-25 Mitchell Bomber wreck and the vibrant reefs of Planet Rock.

Booking Tip: Book with established operators like Niugini Diving Adventures or Madang Resort Dive Center. Costs range from $80-120 per dive including equipment. Best visibility is during dry season (May-October). Look for PADI-certified operators with good safety records.

Cultural Village Tours

Experience authentic Melanesian culture by visiting traditional villages around Madang, where you can witness age-old customs, traditional crafts, and local ceremonies. These tours often include demonstrations of traditional cooking methods, basket weaving, and storytelling sessions with village elders. Many villages still practice subsistence farming and fishing as their ancestors did centuries ago.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local tour operators or your accommodation for $40-80 per person including transport and guide. Best to visit during weekdays when villagers are available. Ensure tours include cultural protocol briefings and respect local customs by bringing small gifts like betel nut or tobacco.

Madang Harbor Sunset Cruise

Take a leisurely boat cruise around Madang's spectacular natural harbor to witness one of the Pacific's most beautiful sunsets. These cruises typically include stops at small islands, snorkeling opportunities, and sometimes traditional string band music. The harbor's calm waters and surrounding mountains create a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.

Booking Tip: Book through Madang Resort or local boat operators for $30-60 per person. Evening cruises (4-7 PM) offer the best sunset views. Look for operators that provide snorkeling gear and light refreshments. Private charters available for $200-400 for groups.

Rainforest Trekking

Explore the lush tropical rainforests surrounding Madang, home to exotic birds, butterflies, and unique flora including orchids and tree ferns. Popular trekking destinations include the Balek Wildlife Sanctuary and the forests around Alexishafen, where you can spot birds of paradise and other endemic species. These treks offer insights into PNG's incredible biodiversity and traditional forest use.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides through tour operators for $50-100 per day including transport. Bring insect repellent, sturdy hiking boots, and rain gear. Best trekking conditions during dry season. Ensure guides are knowledgeable about local wildlife and plant species.

WWII Historical Sites Tour

Discover Madang's significant World War II history by visiting Japanese bunkers, gun emplacements, and crash sites scattered around the area. The region was heavily contested during the Pacific War, and many artifacts and structures remain intact. Tours often include visits to the Japanese war memorial and explanations of the strategic importance of Madang during the conflict.

Booking Tip: Combine with diving tours to see underwater wrecks or book separate historical tours for $40-70 per person. Local historians provide the best insights. Tours typically last 4-6 hours including transport to multiple sites. Best to book during cooler morning hours.

Getting There

Madang Airport (MAG) is the main gateway, with regular flights from Port Moresby operated by PNG Air and Air Niugini, taking about 1.5 hours and costing $200-400. There are also connections from other PNG cities like Mount Hagen and Wewak. Road access is possible but challenging due to PNG's difficult terrain and road conditions - the journey from Lae takes 6-8 hours on partially sealed roads. Most international visitors fly into Port Moresby first and connect to Madang, as there are no direct international flights to Madang Airport.

Getting Around

Madang town is compact and walkable, with most attractions within a few kilometers of the center. PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are the cheapest local transport option, costing 1-3 kina for short trips, but can be crowded and unreliable. Taxis are available but should be negotiated beforehand, typically costing 10-30 kina for town trips. Many visitors rent vehicles through their accommodation or local operators for around $100-150 per day, which is recommended for exploring outer areas and dive sites. Walking is pleasant and safe during daylight hours, especially around the harbor area and main town center.

Where to Stay

Madang Town Center

Harbor Front

Alexishafen

Siar Village

Kranket Island

Madang Resort Area

Food & Dining

Madang's dining scene reflects its multicultural population with a mix of local PNG cuisine, Chinese restaurants, and international options. The Madang Club and Madang Resort offer upscale dining with fresh seafood and international dishes, while local markets provide authentic experiences with sago, fresh fish, and tropical fruits. Chinese restaurants are popular among locals and visitors, serving generous portions at reasonable prices. Street food includes grilled fish, sago pancakes, and fresh coconuts. Most restaurants close early (around 8-9 PM), so plan dinner accordingly. Fresh seafood is excellent and affordable, with barramundi, coral trout, and prawns being local specialties.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Madang is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is lower, humidity is more manageable, and diving conditions are optimal with better visibility. Temperatures remain fairly constant year-round (24-32°C), but the wet season from November to April brings heavy rainfall, higher humidity, and occasional tropical storms that can disrupt diving and outdoor activities. The dry season also coincides with calmer seas and better road conditions for exploring the region. However, Madang can be visited year-round, and the wet season offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, though some activities may be weather-dependent.

Insider Tips

Bring cash (PNG Kina) as ATMs are limited and credit cards aren't widely accepted - exchange money at banks in town center

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as both are expensive and hard to find locally

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting villages and always ask permission before photographing people

Things to Do in Madang