Papua New Guinea isn’t just another island—it’s one of the most culturally rich and remote places on Earth. Located north of Australia, this country is home to over 800 languages, deep rainforests, volcanic mountains, and coastal villages where daily life hasn’t changed for generations.

What makes Papua New Guinea so special is how alive its traditions still are. You’ll find tribes that paint their faces for sing-sing ceremonies, wear feathered headdresses, and pass down legends that go back centuries. In the highlands, ancient customs thrive. Along the coast, dugout canoes still cut through clear waters.

Nature here is untouched and dramatic. Hike through cloud forests, climb active volcanoes, dive coral reefs teeming with life, or paddle into hidden lagoons. It’s a place where you feel far from the modern world—but deeply connected to something older, and maybe more real.

In this guide, we’ll explore must-see places, traditional dishes, and how to stay connected while traveling through this truly wild part of the Pacific.

Must-See Places in Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby – Culture and Color

Port Moresby isn’t just the entry point—it’s a place worth pausing in. At the National Museum and Art Gallery, you’ll find carved masks, traditional tools, and woven artifacts from across the country’s many tribes. For a breath of fresh air, head to Nature Park, where tree kangaroos and birds-of-paradise move freely among tropical plants.

Mount Hagen – Where Traditions Come Alive

In the Highlands, Mount Hagen brings together tribes from all corners of the country. If your visit lines up with the big cultural show in August, you’ll witness one of the most vibrant events in Papua New Guinea—warriors in feathers, painted faces, and rhythmic dances that have been passed down for generations.

Kokoda Track – Walking Through History

This rugged trail takes you over mountain ridges and through rainforest valleys. It’s not just a physical challenge—it’s a journey through a historic World War II route. Along the way, local villages offer warm welcomes, and the scenery shifts with every step.

Madang – A Laid-Back Coastal Gem

Madang is green, quiet, and full of charm. The coastline here is dotted with small islands, coral reefs, and clear waters perfect for diving or snorkeling. You’ll also find echoes of World War II underwater—sunken planes and ships waiting to be explored.

Tufi – Remote and Rewarding

Tufi sits between rainforest-covered hills and deep inlets that look more like fjords. It’s peaceful, remote, and beautifully untouched. Come here for canoe rides, village stays, or just to sit and take in the view. Life here moves slowly—and that’s exactly the point.

Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Papua New Guinea

Mumu – The Traditional Feast

Mumu is more than a dish—it’s an event. Meat, sweet potatoes, taro, and greens are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground oven. The smoky flavor and tender texture make it a meal to remember.

Saksak – A Dessert from the Sago Palm

Made from sago starch, this chewy treat is wrapped in banana leaves and often sweetened with coconut milk and fruit. It’s one of the most traditional desserts in PNG’s lowland areas.

Kaukau – The Sweet Potato Staple

Sweet potatoes (called kaukau) are served with almost every meal in the highlands. Boiled, roasted, or mashed, they’re hearty and naturally sweet.

Tuna and Reef Fish – From Ocean to Fire

In coastal areas, fresh fish is grilled over open flames or wrapped in leaves with herbs. Simple, clean, and incredibly fresh—it’s hard to beat fish straight from the sea.

Essential Travel Tips for Papua New Guinea

Money & Payments

• Currency: Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK)
• Credit cards are accepted in large hotels and some shops in Port Moresby.
• In villages and markets, cash is essential. ATMs are limited outside major towns, so plan ahead.

Getting Around

• Domestic flights are common—many areas are unreachable by road.
• PMVs (public motor vehicles) are the cheapest option for land travel but are often slow and packed.
• Hiring a local guide or driver is smart if you're heading to remote places.

Staying Safe

• PNG can be challenging. Urban areas like Port Moresby have security concerns—stay alert, use hotel taxis, and avoid walking at night.
• In rural regions, people are welcoming, but always ask permission before taking photos or visiting villages.
• Bring mosquito repellent and consider anti-malarial medication if you're staying in lowland areas.

Staying Connected in Papua New Guinea

PNG is remote—and while that’s part of the adventure, staying connected can help with navigation, safety, and keeping in touch.

Wi-Fi is limited and often slow. Hotels in Port Moresby and larger towns may offer it, but connections aren’t always reliable. In rural areas, Wi-Fi is rare or nonexistent.

Local SIM cards are available, but buying one requires passport registration, and store staff may not always speak English fluently. You’ll also need to figure out data packages and settings, which can be tricky when you're tired from travel.

Papua New Guinea JetSet eSIM makes everything easier. Activate your eSIM before you go and land with instant mobile data—no shops, no paperwork, and no roaming fees.

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Explore PNG with confidence. With JetSet eSIM, you’ll stay connected wherever your journey takes you—from Port Moresby to the mountain trails.