Papua New Guinea

Oceania

Population: ~9 million (2025 est.)

Capital: Port Moresby

Official Language: English, Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu

Time Zone

Papua New Guinea Standard Time (PGT), UTC+10

No daylight saving time observed

Sunrise ~06:30, sunset ~18:30

Currency

Kinabalu Currency (PGK), symbol “K”

The Papua New Guinea Kina (PGK) is the official currency, and USD is sometimes accepted in tourist areas.

ATMs are available in larger cities like Port Moresby, and credit cards are accepted in key tourist locations.

National Day

September 16 – Independence Day (from Australia, 1975)

The day is marked with parades, traditional performances, and cultural events, celebrating the country's rich history and diversity.

Culture

Papua New Guinea’s culture is incredibly diverse, with over 800 languages spoken and hundreds of different ethnic groups, each with their own traditions and customs. The people of Papua New Guinea have a rich cultural heritage, and their traditions remain very much alive today. Customary life is central to many aspects of life, especially in rural areas, where traditional village customs still influence everyday activities. Traditional arts, crafts, and performances are integral to cultural identity. Festivals, such as the famous Mount Hagen Cultural Show, are important occasions for the display of dance, song, and traditional rituals. Papua New Guinea also has a thriving contemporary arts scene, with artists drawing inspiration from their indigenous heritage.

Music & Dance: Traditional music and dance are vital components of Papua New Guinea's culture, with performances often held during festivals and ceremonies.
Language & Identity: Over 800 languages are spoken, making it one of the most linguistically diverse places on Earth. English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu are the official languages.
Crafts & Art: The country is known for its intricate carvings, weaving, and body art, which hold deep cultural significance in various regions.
Cuisine: Papua New Guinean cuisine is heavily based on fresh, local ingredients, including fish, tropical fruits, taro, yam, and sweet potato. The traditional “mumu” is a popular dish cooked in an earth oven.
Religion & Customs: Christianity is the predominant religion, but there are also many indigenous spiritual beliefs. Traditional customs, such as clan rituals and practices, continue to play a major role in the lives of many communities.

Tourism & Best Sites to Visit

Papua New Guinea offers a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences. From its dense jungles and rugged mountains to its stunning beaches and coral reefs, there is something for every type of traveler. Visitors can explore pristine islands, remote villages, and World War II sites, or enjoy adventurous activities such as trekking, diving, and birdwatching. The country is also known for its rich cultural diversity, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional music, dance, and ceremonies firsthand.

Warrior Islands

New Britain Island

Port Moresby

National Capital District

Rabaul

East New Britain

Tufi

Northern Province

Warrior Islands
The Warrior Islands are located off the coast of New Britain, known for their rugged beauty and rich cultural heritage. The islands offer an unforgettable opportunity to explore traditional villages, pristine beaches, and World War II-era sites. Visitors can engage with the indigenous communities, take part in local rituals, and explore the surrounding waters by snorkeling or diving to discover vibrant coral reefs.
Port Moresby
Port Moresby, the capital city, is the gateway to Papua New Guinea. The city is a hub for cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Visitors can explore the National Museum, visit the Parliament House, or take a walk through the Port Moresby Nature Park. Port Moresby also serves as a launch point for those wishing to explore the surrounding islands and wilderness areas.
Rabaul
Rabaul, located on the island of New Britain, is a popular tourist destination known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and history as a former Japanese stronghold during World War II. Visitors can tour the Tavanipupu Island, visit the local volcanoes, or take a scenic boat trip to explore nearby islands and coral reefs.
Tufi
Tufi is known for its fjords, diving spots, and traditional villages. This remote area offers visitors the chance to experience the country’s rich indigenous culture while surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, diving, and birdwatching in the area’s abundant natural reserves, as well as explore the local village life.

Transportation

Papua New Guinea’s transportation system is diverse but can be challenging in more remote areas. The main modes of transport are by road, air, and sea. While roads are generally in good condition in urban areas, rural roads can be difficult to navigate. Domestic flights are the best way to travel between the larger cities and more remote areas. Ferries are used to reach islands, and local taxis and buses are available in major towns.

Taxis: Available in major cities like Port Moresby and Lae, taxis are the most common form of transport within urban areas.
Rental Cars: Limited availability in urban centers like Port Moresby, with higher demand in smaller towns and villages.
Public Transport: Public buses and minibuses serve some urban areas, with limited services to rural parts of the country.
Ferries: Ferries and boats are the main form of transport to reach the many islands of Papua New Guinea.
Domestic Flights: Airlines like Air Niugini provide domestic flights to smaller cities and remote regions, as well as connections to international airports.

Airports

Papua New Guinea is served by several airports across its cities and islands. The major international gateway is Port Moresby, with several regional airports connecting the more remote areas.

Jacksons International Airport (POM): Located in Port Moresby, this is the primary international airport serving Papua New Guinea. It offers flights to and from Australia, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
Lae Nadzab Airport (LAE): Lae Nadzab is a key domestic airport for flights within Papua New Guinea, with connections to other major towns like Mt. Hagen and Goroka.
Goroka Airport (GKA): Located in the Eastern Highlands, Goroka is a popular destination for visitors seeking cultural experiences and scenic hiking trails.
Mount Hagen Airport (HGU): This airport is another important domestic hub for travel within the Highlands region, known for its traditional culture and natural beauty.

Visa & Travel

Nationality/Region	Entry Status	Max Stay	Key Requirements
USA, UK, Australia, EU, New Zealand	Visa Free	Up to 60 days	Valid passport, return/onward ticket
Other countries	Visa Required	Varies	Apply for a tourist visa before departure
Transit (all nationalities)	Transit Allowed	Up to 72 hours	Confirmed onward ticket

Health: No mandatory vaccinations unless coming from a yellow fever-endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunizations.

Customs: Duty-free limits include 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, and gifts up to PGK $700.

Safety Tips: Papua New Guinea is a relatively safe destination, but travelers should exercise caution in certain areas, especially in urban centers. Follow local advice and avoid remote regions without proper guidance.

Money Matters: The official currency is the Kina (PGK). ATMs and credit cards are available in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash when traveling to rural regions.

Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially in rural areas where traditional ceremonies and rituals are important. Always ask permission before taking photographs.