Things to Do in Manus Island

Manus Island, Papua Niugini - Complete Travel Guide

Manus Island, the largest island in the Admiralty Islands group of Papua New Guinea, offers visitors a pristine tropical paradise with rich cultural heritage and untouched natural beauty. Located approximately 280 kilometers north of mainland Papua New Guinea, this remote destination features crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and traditional Melanesian villages where ancient customs remain deeply embedded in daily life. The island serves as the provincial capital of Manus Province, with Lorengau as its main administrative center. The island's isolation has preserved both its natural ecosystems and cultural authenticity, making it an exceptional destination for travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion and world-class diving experiences. Manus Island's waters are part of the Coral Triangle, hosting incredible marine biodiversity including manta rays, whale sharks, and pristine coral gardens. The local communities maintain traditional practices including intricate wood carving, traditional fishing methods, and ceremonial customs that have been passed down through generations.

Top Things to Do in Manus Island

Diving and Snorkeling in Manus Waters

Explore some of the world's most pristine coral reefs in the nutrient-rich waters surrounding Manus Island. The diving here features dramatic drop-offs, coral gardens, and encounters with pelagic species including manta rays, whale sharks, and schools of barracuda. Multiple dive sites offer varying difficulty levels, from shallow coral gardens perfect for snorkeling to advanced drift dives along underwater walls.

Booking Tip: Arrange diving through Lorengau-based operators who charge approximately $80-120 USD per dive including equipment. Best visibility occurs during dry season months (May-October). Book at least one week in advance as there are limited operators, and confirm equipment availability for your certification level.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

Visit authentic Melanesian villages where traditional lifestyles continue largely unchanged. Experience traditional cooking methods, witness master craftsmen creating intricate wood carvings and traditional tools, and participate in cultural ceremonies when available. Villages like Bundralis and Papitalai offer the most comprehensive cultural experiences with traditional architecture and active artisan communities.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through local guides in Lorengau for $30-50 USD per day including transportation and cultural demonstrations. Morning visits (8-11 AM) offer the best opportunity to see daily activities. Bring small gifts like soap, batteries, or school supplies as tokens of appreciation.

Lagoon Island Hopping

Explore the numerous small islands and atolls within Manus' expansive lagoon system, each offering unique characteristics from pristine beaches to bird watching opportunities. Islands like Ndrova and Tong provide excellent swimming, picnicking, and photography opportunities with their white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Many uninhabited islands offer complete solitude and untouched natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Charter boats through Lorengau operators for $150-250 USD per day depending on group size and distance traveled. Include lunch and snorkeling equipment in negotiations. Best conditions occur during morning hours with calmer seas, and fuel costs may be additional depending on distances covered.

Sport Fishing Adventures

Experience world-class fishing in waters that see minimal fishing pressure, offering excellent opportunities for Spanish mackerel, tuna, giant trevally, and coral trout. The deep waters beyond the reef system provide access to pelagic species, while lagoon fishing offers consistent action for various reef species. Both trolling and bottom fishing produce excellent results in these nutrient-rich waters.

Booking Tip: Book fishing charters through Lorengau operators for $200-400 USD per day including basic tackle and bait. Bring or rent quality tackle as local equipment may be limited. Early morning departures (6 AM) provide best fishing conditions, and confirm whether catch cleaning and cooking services are included.

WWII Historical Site Exploration

Discover remnants from World War II when Manus Island served as a major Allied naval base, including Seeadler Harbor which was one of the largest naval anchorages in the Pacific. Explore abandoned airstrips, military installations, and wreckage sites while learning about the island's strategic importance during the Pacific campaign. Several sites contain well-preserved artifacts and structures from the 1940s.

Booking Tip: Arrange historical tours through local guides for $40-60 USD per day including transportation to multiple sites. Bring sturdy walking shoes and insect repellent as many sites are accessed through jungle paths. Photography is generally permitted, and guides provide detailed historical context about each location's wartime significance.

Getting There

Manus Island is accessible via Momote Airport (IATA: MAS), located on Los Negros Island connected to Manus by a causeway. Airlines PNG operates regular flights from Port Moresby (approximately 1.5 hours) with connections available from major Australian cities including Brisbane and Cairns. Flight schedules vary seasonally, with typically 3-4 flights per week. Alternative access includes cargo ships and private boats from Wewak or other coastal Papua New Guinea ports, though these options require significant advance planning and are weather-dependent.

Getting Around

Transportation on Manus Island relies primarily on hired vehicles, boats, and walking, as public transportation is extremely limited. Rental vehicles are available through guesthouses and local operators in Lorengau for approximately $80-120 USD per day including driver. Boat transport is essential for accessing outer islands and fishing spots, with various sized vessels available for charter. The main road connects Lorengau to Momote Airport and several villages, though road conditions can be challenging during wet season. Walking remains the primary method for exploring villages and nearby attractions.

Where to Stay

Lorengau Town Center

Momote Airport Area

Seeadler Harbor Waterfront

Bundralis Village Area

Papitalai Coastal Region

Los Negros Island

Food & Dining

Dining options on Manus Island center around local guesthouses, small restaurants in Lorengau, and traditional village meals. The Harbourside Hotel and Seeadler Lodge offer the most comprehensive dining with both local and international options, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Papua New Guinea staples like sago, taro, and locally caught fish. Village dining experiences provide authentic traditional meals cooked in earth ovens, featuring coconut-based dishes, fresh fish, and tropical vegetables. Local markets in Lorengau offer fresh produce, betel nut, and traditional snacks, while small trade stores provide basic supplies and packaged goods.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Manus Island is during the dry season from May through October, when rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower, and sea conditions are calmest for diving and boat activities. This period offers the best underwater visibility, most reliable weather for outdoor activities, and easiest access to remote areas. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall, higher humidity, and rougher seas, though temperatures remain consistently warm year-round (26-32°C/79-90°F). Cultural festivals and traditional ceremonies often occur during dry season months, providing additional opportunities for cultural immersion.

Insider Tips

Bring sufficient cash in Papua New Guinea Kina as ATMs and credit card facilities are extremely limited throughout the island, and currency exchange is only available through banks in Lorengau during limited hours

Pack comprehensive medical supplies including prescription medications, as medical facilities are basic and emergency evacuation to Port Moresby may be necessary for serious conditions

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, asking permission before photographing people, and participating in traditional greetings and ceremonies when invited by community members