Things to Do in Port Moresby, Papua Niugini

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, is a vibrant Pacific city that serves as the gateway to one of the world's most culturally diverse nations. Perched on the shores of Fairfax Harbour along the Coral Sea, the city blends modern urban development with traditional Melanesian culture, offering visitors a unique introduction to Papua New Guinea's rich heritage. Despite its reputation for urban challenges, Port Moresby has undergone significant development in recent years, with improved infrastructure and growing tourism facilities. The city is home to excellent museums, bustling markets, and serves as the starting point for exploring PNG's incredible natural and cultural attractions. From here, visitors can easily access the famous Kokoda Track, pristine diving sites, and remote highland cultures. While Port Moresby itself offers limited traditional tourist attractions, it provides essential services, cultural insights, and logistical support for broader PNG adventures, making it an important stop for any serious exploration of this fascinating country.

Top Things to Do in Port Moresby

Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery

Explore Papua New Guinea's rich cultural heritage through extensive collections of traditional artifacts, contemporary art, and historical exhibits. The museum showcases the incredible diversity of PNG's 800+ cultures, featuring ceremonial masks, traditional weapons, and contemporary Pacific art. This is essential for understanding the country's complex cultural landscape before venturing into remote areas.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 10-15 PGK for adults. Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and allow 2-3 hours. The museum shop offers authentic local crafts. Best visited in the morning when it's cooler.

Explore Ela Beach and the Waterfront

Stroll along Port Moresby's main recreational beach area, popular with locals for picnics and relaxation. The waterfront precinct includes walking paths, food vendors, and views across Fairfax Harbour. While not pristine, it offers insight into local life and serves as a pleasant escape from the city's busier areas.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but visit during daylight hours for safety. Weekends are busiest with local families. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated. Local food stalls offer inexpensive meals for 5-15 PGK.

Shop at Gordons Market

Experience Papua New Guinea's largest traditional market, where vendors from across the country sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and local specialties. The market is a sensory adventure featuring tropical fruits, traditional bilum bags, and betel nut. It's an authentic glimpse into daily PNG life and commerce.

Booking Tip: Best visited early morning (7-9 AM) when produce is freshest and crowds manageable. Bring small denominations of PGK for purchases. Go with a local guide for safety and cultural context, expect to pay 100-200 PGK for guided visits.

Take a Harbour Cruise

Enjoy views of Port Moresby from the water while learning about the city's maritime history and development. Cruises typically include commentary about local landmarks, traditional fishing villages, and the strategic importance of the harbour. Some tours include stops at nearby islands or traditional villages.

Booking Tip: Half-day cruises cost 150-300 PGK per person. Book through reputable hotels or tour operators. Morning cruises offer better weather and visibility. Sunset cruises are popular but book in advance during dry season.

Visit Parliament House and Government Precinct

Tour the distinctive modern architecture of Papua New Guinea's Parliament House, designed to incorporate traditional motifs and styles. The building represents PNG's unique blend of modern governance and traditional culture. The surrounding government precinct showcases post-independence development and urban planning.

Booking Tip: Tours must be arranged in advance through official channels, usually free but require identification and security clearance. Contact the Parliament House visitor center at least 24-48 hours ahead. Tours typically run weekday mornings when Parliament is not in session.

Getting There

Jackson's International Airport (POM) is Papua New Guinea's main international gateway, located about 8km from Port Moresby city center. The airport receives flights from major Australian cities (Brisbane, Sydney, Cairns), Manila, Singapore, and other Pacific destinations. Air Niugini is the national carrier, while airlines like Virgin Australia, Philippine Airlines, and Jetstar also serve the route. From the airport, taxis are the primary transport option to the city, costing 50-100 PGK depending on destination. Many hotels offer airport transfers, which should be arranged in advance for safety and convenience.

Getting Around

Transportation in Port Moresby requires careful planning due to safety considerations. Taxis are the most reliable option for tourists, with reputable companies like Comfort Taxis offering radio dispatch services. PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are local buses that are inexpensive but not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns. Many visitors arrange transportation through their hotels or use tour operators for sightseeing. Car rental is available but not recommended for first-time visitors due to local driving conditions and security issues. Walking is generally not advised, especially after dark or in certain areas of the city.

Where to Stay

Downtown Port Moresby

Ela Beach

Boroko

Waigani

Spring Garden

Gerehu

Food & Dining

Port Moresby's dining scene reflects its multicultural population, with influences from Australia, Asia, and traditional Melanesian cuisine. The city offers everything from upscale hotel restaurants serving international cuisine to local markets with traditional foods like sago, taro, and fresh seafood. Many restaurants are located in hotels and shopping centers for security reasons. Local specialties include kokoda (raw fish in coconut cream), sago dishes, and tropical fruits. Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese and Filipino, is widely available. Most tourist-oriented restaurants accept credit cards, but cash is preferred at local establishments. Dining costs range from 20-50 PGK for local meals to 80-150 PGK for hotel restaurants.

When to Visit

Port Moresby has a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (May to October) is generally considered the best time to visit, with lower humidity, less rainfall, and more comfortable temperatures averaging 24-28°C. This period offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season (November to April) brings higher humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and temperatures up to 32°C, though mornings are often clear. Trade winds provide some relief year-round. The dry season coincides with peak tourist season, so expect higher accommodation prices and advance booking requirements.

Insider Tips

Security is a primary concern in Port Moresby - always use reputable transportation, avoid walking alone especially after dark, and stay in tourist-designated areas. Most hotels can arrange safe transportation and tours.

The Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and local establishments. ATMs are available but may have limited cash.

Port Moresby serves primarily as a gateway to PNG's main attractions. Plan to spend 1-2 days here while organizing onward travel to destinations like the Highlands, Kokoda Track, or diving locations in other provinces.

Complete Port Moresby Travel Guide

Explore our dedicated guide to Port Moresby with detailed neighborhood guides, activities, and local tips

Explore Now →

Things to Do in Port Moresby