Welcome to Papua New Guinea

Culture, culture and more culture is what you’ll find in Papua New Guinea – that, and postcard-perfect landscapes. Mass tourism hasn’t hit the country yet, so you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a lost world. This is an opportunity to get to know and understand tribal cultures that, in some cases, have no contact with the outside world.

Slip away to the white-sand beaches of Panasia Island and Lusancay Islands. Scuba dive at Eastern Fields and the Coral Sea. Experience colorful tribal festivals such as the Goroka Show in the Highlands and the Sepik Crocodile Festival. Dive into Papua New Guinea and expand your world view.

Unique Facts

• It is believed that the first humans arrived in Papua New Guinea approximately 60,000 years ago. There is evidence of agriculture starting 9,000 years ago.
• There are at least 750 different ethnic tribes who live in Papua New Guinea. Many have little contact with other tribes or the outside world.
• Papua New Guinea is located on the “Ring of Fire,” a volcanic region including Mount Tavurvur, Kadovar Island and Mount Ulawun.
• Almost 850 native languages are spoken here, making Papua New Guinea the most linguistically diverse country in the world.
• The Tolai tribe still uses shell money, or tabu, made of small shells threaded on vines, to mark life events, such as births, deaths and marriages.

Language

Papua New Guinea’s official languages are Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Papua New Guinea is from late May or early June through October.

Airports

Port Moresby International Airport (aka Jacksons International Airport)

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Papua New Guinea: Measles, routine vaccinations and Polio. Most travelers need Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, Yellow Fever and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type I. Standard voltage: 240V. Frequency: 40Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Papua New Guinean Kina

Getting Around

Avoid the public buses known as PMVs. There are taxis available in some major population centers. If possible use a hotel courtesy bus when arriving at the airport.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

US Embassy Port Moresby
PO Box 1492
Port Moresby
Papua New Guinea

Local Visitor Info

https://www.papuanewguinea.travel/

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 111

Safety and Security

The crime rate is high in the capital city, Port Moresby, as well as in Lae and Mt. Hagen. The crime rate is also high in settlement or squatter areas or towns and cities. Carjacking, assault, purse snatching and robberies are common. If you are walking on the Kokoda Trail, do so only with a guide from a reputable company.