Document checklist for Papua New Guinea

• Valid passport
• Visa
• Entry Permit
• Return/Onward Ticket
• Accommodation Details
• Travel Insurance
• Itinerary

Essential Papua New Guinea travel information

Currency – The Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) is the country’s exchange unit.

Daily budget for one person:  200-300 Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK).

Languages: Papua New Guinea has three official languages, which include English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu.

Socket type – Type I. 240 volts at a frequency of 50 hertz is the standard voltage in Papua New Guinea.

Time zone – Papua New Guinea operates on Papua New Guinea Time (PGT). (UTC+10:00).

The top 3 cities/islands to visit are Port Moresby, Lae, Madang

Top 3 landmarks/monuments – Kokoda Track, Mount Wilhelm, Tufi Fjords

Typical costs and budget for Papua New Guinea

Daily spending – 200-300 Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) per person.

Meals – $10 and $30 per person per meal

Transport: Daily prices for local transit range from $2 to $5, depending on how you want to move about.

Hotel: $50 to $100 per night.

Travel options in Papua New Guinea and the finest modes of transportation

Road networks in Papua New Guinea are limited, especially in remote areas. However, major cities and towns have roads connecting them. It’s important to note that road conditions can vary significantly, and some areas may be inaccessible or require 4WD vehicles. In urban areas, taxis and hired cars are available for local transportation.

Water transport is commonly used in remote areas where road infrastructure is limited. Riverboats and canoes are often used for transportation along rivers and the coastal regions.

Cruise ships frequently stop in Papua New Guinea. These cruises allow visitors to explore the country’s stunning coastline, islands, and remote communities. Cruises typically offer a range of activities and shore excursions to experience the local culture and natural beauty.

Safety in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea can be considered a country with some safety concerns. While some areas can be relatively safe for travel and living, it is essential to be aware of the security situation and take precautions to ensure personal safety.

Crimes such as theft, robbery, assault, and carjacking occur, and there have been reports of armed attacks and sexual assault.

It is crucial to remain alert to the local situation and avoid areas known for tribal disputes.

Maintaining a respectful attitude towards local authorities and following their instructions if approached is recommended.

Weather in Papua New Guinea

Tropical weather with high annual temperatures and humidity is the norm in Papua New Guinea. The rainy and the dry season are the primary seasons of the nation.

The wet season in Papua New Guinea occurs during the southern hemisphere’s summer months. It is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional tropical storms or cyclones. The wet season brings lush greenery and vibrant vegetation to the country’s tropical rainforests.

The dry season in Papua New Guinea takes place during the southern hemisphere’s winter months. This period is generally characterized by lower rainfall and milder temperatures. While some regions may still experience sporadic rain showers, the weather tends to be drier and more suitable for outdoor activities.

Must do and see in Papua New Guinea

Visit Port Moresby: Papua New Guinea’s capital city has several exciting attractions, including the National Museum and Art Gallery, Parliament House, and Adventure Park PNG. Explore the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and sample delicious local cuisine.

Discover the Sepik River: Take a boat trip along the Sepik River, one of the longest rivers in Papua New Guinea. Visit isolated settlements, immerse yourself in Sepik culture, and take in their distinctive woodcarvings and artwork.

Explore the Kokoda Track: This historic trail is a challenging but rewarding trek through the Owen Stanley Range. It follows the path of the World War II Kokoda campaign and offers breathtaking scenery and insights into the country’s wartime history.

Typical Papua New Guinea food to try

Mumu is a traditional cooking method where food, usually pork or chicken, is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven heated with hot stones. It results in tender and flavorful meat, often served with vegetables.

Laplap is a staple dish from starchy vegetables such as taro, yams, or green bananas. The vegetables are grated, mixed with coconut milk, and wrapped in banana leaves. The package is then cooked in an earth oven until it becomes a thick, pudding-like consistency.

Sago is a typical staple food in Papua New Guinea, derived from the pith of the sago palm tree. It is processed into a flour-like substance and used in various dishes such as porridge, pancakes, or dumplings. Sago is often eaten with fish or meat.

Vaccine information for Papua New Guinea

Vaccines are essential for stopping the spread of contagious illnesses and shielding people from serious sicknesses or sequelae. Vaccinations in Papua New Guinea protect the populace from several local diseases.