Car Rental in Papua New Guinea - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Papua New Guinea is generally not recommended for most tourists due to challenging conditions. The country drives on the left side of the road, but road quality varies dramatically - while main highways connecting major cities like Port Moresby and Lae are paved, many rural roads are unpaved, poorly maintained, and can become impassable during wet season. Security concerns are significant, particularly outside urban areas, and carjacking incidents have been reported. Driving standards can be unpredictable, with limited road signage and occasional livestock on roads. Car rental may be suitable for experienced drivers on organized business trips or those traveling in convoys to specific destinations like highland lodges, but solo tourist road trips are not advisable. In Port Moresby and other cities, traffic congestion and security issues make self-driving impractical. Most visitors find it safer and more practical to use hotel transfers, hire drivers through reputable companies, or join organized tours. If you do rent, a 4WD vehicle is essential for anything beyond main city routes, and comprehensive insurance is critical. Always check current security advisories and consider hiring a local driver who knows the roads and conditions.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Papua New Guinea's specific IDP requirements. Check with rental agencies and local authorities before travel.

Minimum Age

Minimum age requirements vary by rental company in Papua New Guinea. Typically ranges from 21-25 years - verify with your chosen rental agency.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally required. Specific acceptance rules for Papua New Guinea should be confirmed with rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive insurance is strongly recommended due to road conditions in Papua New Guinea. Verify coverage options with rental agencies.

Credit Card

Most rental agencies require a credit card for security deposits. Check specific requirements and deposit amounts with your rental provider.

Local Driving Conditions Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with Papua New Guinea's road conditions and local driving practices. Many areas have challenging terrain and limited infrastructure.

International rental agencies at Jackson International Airport (Port Moresby) offer the most reliable vehicles and insurance coverage - book in advance as availability can be limited, especially during peak business travel periods.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and verify you have emergency contact numbers, as road conditions in PNG can be challenging and roadside assistance may be limited outside major centers.

GPS coverage is unreliable outside Port Moresby and major towns - download offline maps beforehand and consider hiring a local driver if unfamiliar with the area, as road signage can be minimal and conditions vary significantly.

Fuel stations are concentrated in urban areas and can be sparse on rural routes - always fill up when possible and carry extra fuel for longer journeys, as distances between stations can be considerable.

Allow extra time for vehicle return and inspection at the airport, and ensure you return with a full tank as refueling fees are typically premium - confirm return procedures in advance as some agencies have specific requirements for after-hours drop-offs.

Road conditions in Papua New Guinea are generally poor outside major cities, with many routes unpaved, poorly maintained, and lacking proper signage - exercise extreme caution and consider a 4WD vehicle for rural travel.

Carjackings and vehicle theft occur in PNG, particularly in urban areas and at night - avoid driving after dark, keep doors locked and windows up, and be especially vigilant in Port Moresby and other cities.

Local driving customs can be unpredictable with minimal traffic law enforcement - expect vehicles to stop suddenly, pedestrians to cross unexpectedly, and livestock on roads, particularly in rural areas.

Heavy rainfall during the wet season (December to March) can make roads impassable and trigger landslides - check current road conditions before traveling and avoid driving during severe weather.