Banking and Currency

• Local currency: Papua New Guinean Kina (K)

• Banking:  

  • Card Transactions: Limited ATMs

  • Tips and Gratuities can be paid for in major international currencies, though the US$ is commonly used (and appreciated!).

  • If local currency is required, then we suggest you obtain this upon arrival at the airport, either from an ATM or a Bureau de Change

Travel, Transport and Getting Around

• Access to PNG is one of the main consideration points when planning your visit. There are limited international flights, and the main access routes are into Port Moresby's Jacksons International Airport from Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, Manilla and most major cities on Australia's eastern seaboard. Note however that flights are not all daily, so date and flight coordination is key.

• Travelling internally is almost exclusively by air, as there is an extremely limited road network. Some areas are only accessible via light aircraft charter flights, and these will be indicated with any proposal we make to you. Bear all this in mind, as this will push travel costs up.

• UK, US and EU citizens will require a visa in advance of travel. These can be applied for by post and turnaround times can be in excess of 1 week, if applying by post. Visas are valid for 2 months upon issuance, but you should consult with your local Embassy, Consulate or High Commission. Note that PNG diplomatic representation is limited globally, so your country may not have a an Embassy, for example residents in Ireland need to send their passports to the PNG High Commission in London.

Health & Safety

Papua New Guinea presents certain health and safety considerations for travellers.

Malaria is a significant risk in many areas, necessitating antimalarial medication and protective measures against mosquito bites.

• Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus.

• It's essential to practice good hygiene, including drinking bottled water and avoiding street food.

• Crime rates can be high, particularly in urban areas, but very rarely do international visitors get targeted. It is still advisable to be vigilant and take precautions against theft. Additionally, travellers should respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and avoid displaying signs of wealth.

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

• Food and water safety: It is advised to not drink tap water, unless the lodge you are staying in has a freshwater source and advises you to drink it. Many hotels have purifiers, so take a reusable water bottle with you and refill it.

• Papua New Guinea's cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indigenous flavours and international influences. Staples like taro, yam, sweet potato, and sago are commonly enjoyed, often accompanied by a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables. Coconut milk and spices like ginger, chilli, and lemongrass feature prominently in many dishes. "Mumu," a traditional dish cooked in an earth oven, is a must-try, featuring a medley of meats, vegetables, and herbs. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh catches like prawns, lobster, and fish, prepared in various styles. Tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and bananas are abundant and refreshing. Local beverages include "kava," a mildly narcotic drink made from the kava plant, and "buai," a popular betel nut chew.

• Food in lodges is mainly international with some local influences.

• Local beers are good and there is a plentiful supply of Australian beers and wines on offer in the lodges too.

Best time to visit Papua New Guinea? Climate and Weather:

• Overall, the dry season from May to October is the best time to visit PNG, but the 2 main seasons are as follows:

  • The wet season typically runs from November to April, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity. This period can make travel difficult, as some roads and infrastructure may be affected.

  • The dry season, from May to October, offers more pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rainfall.

Clothing and Dress Recommendations

• As a standard, light, breathable and both short- and long-sleeved shirts and trousers are advisable, along with a pair of comfortable and breathable walking boots.

• A light raincoat is a must!

• A sealable bag, of the beach or snorkeler type is extremely handy, for keeping valuables and electronic equipment dry and clean. The same goes for a waterproof hold-all, or similar if your camera cases aren't semi-waterproof.

Language, Local Customs and Communications

• Papua New Guinea boasts an incredibly diverse cultural landscape, with over 800 indigenous languages spoken, reflecting the country's tribal heritage. English is the official language, but Tok Pisin (or Pigeon), a Creole language, serves as a lingua franca. You will be hard-pressed not to pick up some Tok Pisin along the way!

• The arts scene is vibrant, showcasing traditional music, dance, and intricate wood carvings. Visitors can immerse themselves in this cultural richness by exploring local villages, witnessing colourful festivals, and engaging with the friendly and welcoming people of Papua New Guinea.

• Mobile communications are surprisingly good in urban and large village clusters, albeit in remote areas connectivity can be challenging, as not all lodges have Wi-Fi or mobile signal. Prepare yourselves for a digital detox, and enjoy it! Robin was recently travelling up the Sepik River in a dugout and, in the middle of nowhere, received a cold call from someone trying to sell him Life Insurance!!!

Electricity and Plug Standards

• Plug Type: Type I

• Voltage (V): 240V 

• Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Depending on your appliances, a travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary. 

Disclaimer

While every effort is taken to provide accurate and up-to-date information, and in particular in relation to health and visa/passport information, we urge you to seek independent advice from the proper medical or government authorities in good time before you travel.