If you are planning an international trip this year, rather than going to regular destinations like Europe or North America plan a trip to Papua New Guinea. In this article, we have covered the things to do in Papua New Guinea. It is nestled just north of Australia, so if you have time for a long trip make sure to visit all the surrounding islands.
Get a taste of the diverse cultures and traditions of more than 300 different tribes. In this article we have listed things to do in Papua New Guinea, to have a great time out there.
These are personal recommendations after visiting the place two times. We have tried to cover all the things to do in Papua New Guinea and check out the article we have written about Best time to Visit Papua New Guinea.
Things To Do in Papua New Guinea
1. National Museum and Art Gallery
Visiting the National Museum and Art Gallery is a must. Papua New Guinea has a very old cultural heritage. People have been living here for more than 50,000 years.
The Museum and Art Gallrey have will take you through time. The museum is home to hundreds of artifacts, tools, weapons, musical instruments, masks, totem poles, canoes, and much more.
More Important Info-
Timings:
9 am to 3 pm Monday to Saturday
1 pm to 3 pm on Sundays
(Closed on public holidays)
Ticket Price:
Free Monday to Friday
K10 for adults on Saturday and Sunday
Address:
Independence Drive, Waigani (next to Parliament Haus)
2. Parliament Haus
Just next to the National Museum and Art Gallery, you will find the Parliament House. You can visit the Parliament House, a combination of old and new architecture which is surrounded by lush green gardens. If possible you can take a tour of the Chambers.
Also check out: Best time to Visit Papua New Guinea
3. Varirata National Park
Varirata National Park is located on the Sogeri Plateau, 23 kilometers (14.30 miles) northeast of Port Moresby. It covers an area of 1,063 hectares, due to the elevation it provides breathtaking aerial views of Port Moresby’s mainland and coastline. Out of all the things to do in Papua New Guinea, you cannot miss this place.
You can hike around the place if you want to, specifically go to watch birds or simply just have a picnic surrounded by beauty. Make sure to visit the ‘Main Lookout’ which is the Park’s most popular attraction.
The park is laid out with tracks with signposts for easy navigation, getting lost here is quite difficult. The Ideal location and vegetation attract a variety of birds, many of which are only found in PNG. Here are some of the birds you can spot at the park:
- Hooded Pitohui
- Raggiana Bird of
- Paradise
- Megapodes
- Southern Cassowary
- Hornbill
- Kingfisher
More Info:
Tickets:
Adults: K5 for citizens and K10 for non-citizens.
Kids: K2 for citizens and K3 for non-citizens.
4. The Rainforest Habitat
During my visit to Papua New Guinea, I explored the rainforest harvest, which is just 9 km away from Lae. I saw the country’s amazing biodiversity and was thrilled by the incredible flora and fauna. At rainforest harvest, you will find birds of paradise, cassowaries, and tree kangaroos. Apart from that, what I haven’t been able to forget was seeing ‘Agro,’ a huge saltwater crocodile.
This habitat spreads around 3,000 sq. meters of reconstructed rainforest within a walk-through aviary. The collapsing walkways and rundown enclosures hinted at its past glory. This is one of the best things to do in Papua New Guinea.
For a better experience, I took a Unitech public motor vehicle (PMV) from Eriku and went off at Gate No. 2, although it’s just a 15-minute walk from the main gate. Despite its current state, the experience of rainforest harvest left me in awe of Papua New Guinea’s natural beauty.
5. Port Moresby Nature Park
Port Moresby Nature Park in Papua New Guinea, a country’s top wildlife sanctuary that should be on your visiting places. This award-winning wildlife park spans 30 acres and combines botanical, zoological, and cultural experiences. As PNG’s only internationally welfare-accredited wildlife park and a member of the Zoo & Aquarium Association of Australasia, it truly stands out.
When I visited, I was amazed to see over 550 native animals, including tree kangaroos, cassowaries, wallabies, reptiles, and a variety of parrots and other bird species. The park offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of your daily life. The facilities here, including a cafe, souvenir shop, and a fantastic children’s playground, were a sight to behold. The park arranged transportation for me, and I highly recommend the 1.5-hour guided tour.
6. Tari Basin
The next is Tari Basin, located in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. It is a beautiful place spread between 1700 – 2800 meters, where nature and culture come together. You can reach it by taking a scenic flight from Karawari. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by lush green landscapes and a foggy atmosphere.
Birdwatchers will love Tari, as it’s home to 217 bird species, including 13 birds of paradise. The Huli people, a tribe, are known for their elaborate wigs and body paint, representing the region’s cultural heritage. They do rituals, chants, and dances, which even enhance tourist’s experience. Overall, visiting Tari Basin means experiencing the stunning scenery and old traditions that define this country as unique.
7. JK McCarthy Museum
The JK McCarthy Museum in Lae is a great place to learn about Papua New Guinea’s culture and history. It has some interesting artifacts, like traditional clothes, tools, and artwork from different local groups. Every corner of this museum tells the story of this country, especially the Goroka area. Named after Sir John Keith McCarthy, a prominent figure in Papua New Guinea’s history, the museum offers unforgettable displays that highlight the World War II period.
So, if you’re in Goroka, be sure not to miss this place. The reason is that, at first I was not too excited to visit this, but now I’m very glad I did.
8. Rabaul Volcanology Observatory (RVO)
When I first learned about the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO), I was amazed at its impact on volcanic safety in Papua New Guinea. Established back in 1940, their initial focus was on Rabaul following a significant eruption. Now, RVO monitors seven of the country’s 15 active volcanoes. They use early warning systems and other strategies to help communities stay safe.
Due to their unrevealed unique work, the number of eruption-related deaths dropped from 3,000 in 1951 to just one in 2005. Interesting, isn’t it?
Since 1998, they gained support from Australia and have enhanced their machinery to make it more accurate. In 2010, Rabaul Volcanological Observatory started a hazard assessment project for East New Britain Province. They have also included their findings in local and national development plans. Overall, this site should be included on your itinerary if you’re one of those who are interested in these things. things to do in Papua New Guinea.
9. Muschu Island
Muschu Island, near the coast of Wewak, is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, colorful marine life, and full of greenery. This place is not so big, spanning around 16 kilometers long and 13 kilometers wide.
The turquoise waters around the island and the nearby reef are perfect for relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling. If you decide to go for a hike, you might come across some World War II remnants. Also, there are parts of a Japanese plan scattered around in a lush forest.
Also check out: Best time to Visit Papua New Guinea
10. Lae War Cemetery
Lae War Cemetery is located next to the Botanical Gardens in the center of the town of Lae. This place honors those who sacrificed their lives during World War II’s New Guinea campaign. In 1942, Japan’s first attack on New Guinea targeted Lae and nearby airfields. It was a crucial phase in the war. The Australian Army Graves Service established the cemetery in 1944. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission has managed it since 1947.
Walking through the cemetery, you’ll find 2,818 Commonwealth burials from World War II, including 444 unidentified graves. Soldiers from the Indian and British armies, Australian forces, and naval personnel are buried here. The Lae Memorial within the cemetery will particularly strike you. It honors over 300 Australian Army, Merchant Navy, and Air Force personnel with no known grave. It was unveiled by the Australian Governor-General in 1953 and has stood tall since then.
11. Trek The Kokoda Track
Trekking the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea holds deep national significance for Australians. This 96 Km trail, located in dense jungles, is not just a physical challenge but a journey through history. It was the site of fierce World War II battles and walking through it gave me a deep appreciation for the bravery of the soldiers who fought there. Every year, 1000s of Australian trekkers come here to honor the soldiers’ bravery. Out of the things to do in Papua New Guinea, this is a must visit.
The Kokoda Track is in between the Oro and Central Provinces, which is home to the Orokaiva and Koiari peoples. Before visiting, you must remember that there are no shops or infrastructure along the way. That’s why careful planning is crucial. Additionally, a trekking permit from a licensed tour operator is essential to get there.
Note: It should be noted that you, as a trekker, must be ready for high humidity and frequent rain. Particularly during the wet season from December to March, you have to be very careful.
12. Island Hopping
Island hopping in Papua New Guinea is an exciting way to discover this country’s beauty. Start hopping through Alotau, Mile Bay Province’s capital, where you’ll enjoy warm Melanesia hospitality. Then, visit Fergusson Island and soak in its stunning volcanic scenery and rich marine life. You must spend a few hours at Siyosi’s guest house in the peaceful village of Gomwa. The reason I’m saying this is that it is located above the mangroves. Or, you can jut opt to relax at the famous Deidei hot springs.
Next, continue your journey and go to Waluma, a charming village with beautiful beachfront views and excellent snorkeling. Each island offers a unique mix of natural beauty and has something for everyone. They will surely make your trip to PNG unforgettable.
13. Scuba-Diving In Madang
Scuba diving in Madang, a town in Papua New Guinea, is an incredible underwater adventure. The reefs and wrecks are teeming with marine life. Here, you’ll encounter seahorses, stingrays, reef sharks, and even the unique hooded Epaulette shark. The Madang Lagoon is a diver’s paradise with numerous dive sites. When I visited there, one of the highlights was exploring the World War II B25 bomber wreck, which is now covered in colorful corals.
Outside the lagoon, I had thrilling channel dives at Magic Passage and Sek Passage. It features stunning coral walls filled with fish like barracuda, trevally, and snappers. Madang;s famous dive site, Planet Rock, rises from 15 to 2,000 feet and is full of fish and sharks, including mackerel, and gray reef sharks among hard corals. With clear visibility and warm waters, scuba diving in Madang is a hidden gem that offers unforgettable experiences.
14. Hike To The Top Of Mount Garbuna Volcano / Watch volcanoes splutter
Hiking Mount Garbuna Volcano in Papua New Guinea is an exciting adventure through rugged terrain. Located 20 kilometers from Kimbe in New Britain, the 8-kilometer trail takes you through lush forests to a dramatic volcanic area. The whole place smells like sulfur and has bubbling thermal pots. Starting from a small village, the trail changes from dense jungle to rocky paths with charred trees and steaming vents. Out of the things to do in Papua New Guinea, this is the more interesting.
The hike also shows the volcano’s recent activity. Although the last big volcanic eruption was in 1300 AD, eruptions in 2005 and 2008 left a fiery landscape. You can explore sulfur pits and thermal fields in this active volcanic site. After your hike, relax at the nearby Walindi Plantation Resort, which offers great amenities and beautiful views.
15. Festivals
Agree or not, but in my opinion, no place on Earth celebrates festivals like Papua New Guinea. The country includes hundreds of tribal groups, each with its own language, beliefs, and customs. Its sing-sings (festivals) are amazing cultural events. When you go there, you’ll see dazzling fire dances and eye-catching battle reenactments that show off their spirituality.
Some key festivals of Papua New Guinea include:
- Color Crocodile Festival: It is to honor the tribes’ spiritual connection to crocodiles.
- National Mask Festival: This highlights the role of masks in dance and storytelling among the people of tribes.
- The Baining Fire Dance Festival: It features stunning fire dances.
- Enga Cultural Festival: It preserves traditional customs.
- Kenu and Kundu Festival: In this, the people celebrate the ocean with exciting canoe races.
- The Hagen Show & Goroka Show: One of the oldest and longest-running festivals represents incredible diversity through music, dance, and performances.
As a tourist, you can witness some amazing costumes that people wear in these festivals, energetic performances, and their unique way of expressing the culture.
Also check out: Best time to Visit Papua New Guinea
Some More Things To Do in Papua New Guinea:
16. Eat incredible seafood
Are you a seafood lover? If yes, Papua New Guinea is calling you. During my visit to this incredible country, I found it to be a seafood haven. One dish I would like to recommend is Kokoda fish, which is made by marinating raw fish in lime juice and coconut milk, then adding onions and herbs. It was a really refreshing and tasty treat.
Another local favorite is Mumu, where seafood, vegetables, and starches are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with hot stones for a smoky flavor. Besides Kokoda fish and Mumu, you can enjoy freshly grilled prawns, lobster, and Kol pis no rais. This filling dish has rice and canned fish. It is often served with fresh vegetables.
All in all, the seafood in Papua New Guinea is delicious and one can’t miss at any cost.
17. Go Diving in the Coral Triangle
The Coral Triangle in Papua New Guinea, a top spot for marine life, is located where the Pacific and Indian Oceans meet. This area has over three-quarters of the world’s coral species. You can enjoy the colorful reefs in Kimbe Bay, which has over 400 types of hard corals and a variety of marine life. In New Ireland, the waters are high in nutrients and full of beautiful soft corals.
Milne Bay is great for muck diving, where you can find interesting small creatures like ghost pipefish and nudibranchs. Its northern reefs also offer stunning coral formations perfect for photography. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or liveaboards, PNG has amazing diving experiences in the Coral Triangle’s incredible underwater world. Out of the things to do in Papua New Guinea, this is the most serene.
18. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters
Snorkeling in Papua New Guinea is an amazing experience with its crystal-clear waters. The whole region has beautiful spots like the Buka Passage in Bougainville, where you can see eye-catching coral reefs and wartime wrecks. Cape Nelson in Oro Province is a must-see, with lots of fish and gorgeous coral in fjord-like areas. Another one that I liked most was Tavui Point in East New Britain, which is famous for its flat coral beds and a historic Japanese submarine base.
In New Ireland, you can snorkel near war wrecks, big fish, and sharks around stunning islands. You must have a day trip to Lion Island off Bootless Bay. This place is also fantastic, with tours providing snorkeling gear and refreshments. And of course, I can’t forget Kime Bay’s Walindi, which has huge coral formations and rich marine life. In short, snorkeling in PNG is something that offers unparalleled adventure.
19. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow
Why go for a regular hotel room when you can stay in a luxurious overwater bungalow? In PNG, you can enjoy this amazing experience, where your room will be located over clear waters with direct access to the ocean. Just imagine, you’re waking up to beautiful sunrise views, stepping onto your private deck, and diving right into the calm sea. Sounds interesting, isn’t it? They provide a special atmosphere for romantic escapes or relaxing retreats.
For inspiration, you must check out some of the best overwater bungalows around the world.
The Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji, is well known for its traditional design and luxury.
The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers a unique experience with its underwater dining and lavish features.
These resorts combine luxury with outstanding natural beauty making them perfect for an unforgettable stay. So, whenever you’re in Papua New Guinea, you should never miss overwater bungalows because they offer an incredible way to experience a tropical paradise.
20. Travel up the Sepik River
Traveling up the Sepik River in Papua New Guinea is an experience like no other. As I moved deeper into this unexplored area, the paved roads turned into rough dirt tracks. The thick jungle felt like stepping into a prehistoric world. The locals will give you a curious look as they’re not used to seeing outsiders. It is truly remote and tribal land. The sound of the tribal drums grew louder as the sun set, which even enhanced the adventure.
You can start from Wewak. Let me tell you, getting to the Sepik River will be a challenge but manageable. For that, you must rent 4×4 boat rides, and get help from local guides. They will help you in every way possible. As you travel along the river, you’ll visit villages like Korogo and Palambei and see their cultures and amazing traditions. The Sepik River, with all its unique experiences, perfectly captures the spirit of this beautiful country.
21. Islands to Visit
Papua New Guinea is known to have several amazing islands. Each of those has its own special features that attract visitors throughout the year. The Trobriand Islands, or “The Trobes,” are recognized for their unique traditions and culture. This archipelago (a group of islands) became famous because anthropologist Bronislaw Malinowski studied their interesting customs. He wrote about the Trobriand Islanders’ courtship and marriage rituals in the 1920s.
Apart from “The Trobes”, there is a lot, like “Vanimo”, which is a great spot for surfing. With perfect waves from October to April and a fun local surf scene, it should be on your visiting list. Next, The Conflict Island, a privately owned island where you can enjoy a peaceful escape with breathtaking natural beauty.
But, remember there is only one way to get there and that is: by boat. These islands show off the wonderful variety and beauty of Papua New Guinea’s tropical paradise.
Also check out: Best time to Visit Papua New Guinea
