Ultimate Travel Guide to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG), is a city that challenges, intrigues, and rewards the intrepid traveler. Perched on the shores of the Coral Sea and surrounded by jagged mountains, this city is a vibrant patchwork of cultures, languages, and raw natural beauty. Though it may not have the polish of more famous tourist destinations, Port Moresby is one of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse cities in the South Pacific.

For those seeking adventure, authenticity, and insight into one of the world’s most linguistically diverse nations, Port Moresby is the perfect introduction to Papua New Guinea.

Why Visit Port Moresby?

- Gateway to the wild and untouched interior of Papua New Guinea
- Explore traditional culture, tribal heritage, and urban markets
- Discover world-class diving, birdwatching, and hiking opportunities nearby
- Learn about the nation’s role in World War II
- Visit eco-parks, museums, and historic landmarks

Top Attractions in Port Moresby

1. Port Moresby Nature Park
This award-winning park offers a lush escape into PNG’s flora and fauna. Home to tree kangaroos, cassowaries, birds of paradise, and hundreds of tropical plants, it's the best place in the capital to experience PNG’s biodiversity.

2. National Museum and Art Gallery
A must-visit for cultural insight, the museum showcases tribal artifacts, ceremonial masks, war shields, and musical instruments. It’s a gateway to understanding PNG’s more than 800 language groups and cultural traditions.

3. Ela Beach
Recently revitalized, this city beach is a popular spot for locals to relax, swim, and enjoy picnics. The beach hosts weekend markets and festivals, and the sunset views are stunning.

4. Bomana War Cemetery
This peaceful site honors Allied soldiers who died during WWII, especially along the Kokoda Track. Walk through immaculately kept rows of headstones and reflect on PNG’s critical role in the Pacific campaign.

5. Hanuabada Village
One of the largest stilt villages in the South Pacific, Hanuabada offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Motuan culture. Local guides can take visitors through the village for a respectful and insightful experience.

6. Adventure Park PNG
A family-friendly park that includes botanical gardens, cultural displays, and an artificial lake. It’s a good option for seeing crocodiles, orchids, and native animals in a safe setting.

7. Koki Market
A lively waterfront market where you can shop for fresh fish, betel nuts, tropical fruit, and handmade crafts. It's one of the most colorful — and culturally immersive — spots in the city.

What to Eat in Port Moresby

Papua New Guinean cuisine is built around root vegetables like taro, sweet potato (kaukau), and sago. Seafood, pork, and tropical fruits also feature heavily in local dishes. Meals are often cooked in earth ovens or wrapped in banana leaves.

Local Dishes to Try:

- Mumu: A traditional dish of pork, vegetables, and greens cooked in an underground oven
- Sago pancakes: Made from the sago palm, these pancakes are a popular snack
- Grilled fish: Fresh from the coast, often marinated with ginger, garlic, and coconut milk
- Tapioca pudding: A sweet treat made with coconut milk
- Kaukau with greens: Roasted sweet potato served with sautéed local greens
- Fried bananas: Often served as a side or dessert with honey or sugar

Where to Eat

- Aviat Club: A social club with good local and international food in a secure setting
- Asia Aromas: Known for quality Chinese and Thai cuisine
- Duffy Café: A favorite expat hangout offering excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches
- Daikoku: The best Japanese restaurant in town, offering teppanyaki and sushi
- Ela Beach Hotel Restaurant: Ocean-view dining with both local and Western options

Where to Stay in Port Moresby

Luxury
- Airways Hotel: PNG’s top luxury accommodation with views, high security, spa, and fine dining
- Stanley Hotel & Suites: Centrally located and connected to Vision City Mall

Mid-Range
- Ela Beach Hotel: Comfortable and conveniently located with coastal views
- Holiday Inn Express: Reliable, clean, and part of an international chain

Budget
- Hideaway Hotel: Affordable with basic amenities and easy access to central Moresby
- Guesthouses in Boroko: Local-run accommodations offering budget-friendly rates

Suggested Itinerary (2–3 Days)

**Day 1**
- Morning: Visit Port Moresby Nature Park to see native wildlife
- Afternoon: Explore the National Museum and Art Gallery
- Evening: Dinner at Aviat Club and walk along Ela Beach

**Day 2**
- Morning: Tour Bomana War Cemetery and Hanuabada Village
- Afternoon: Visit Koki Market for souvenirs and street food
- Evening: Relax with seafood dinner at Asia Aromas or Ela Beach Hotel

**Day 3 (Optional)**
- Take a trip to Adventure Park PNG
- Alternatively, arrange a diving or snorkeling excursion off nearby reefs

Best Time to Visit

- Dry Season (May to October): Best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing
- Wet Season (November to April): Hot and humid with heavy rain, especially in January and February

Getting Around

- Taxis: Widely available but expensive — agree on the fare before departure
- Hotel shuttles: Many hotels provide safe and reliable transport
- Car hire with driver: Recommended for safety and convenience
- Walking: Only in secure, well-trafficked areas; avoid isolated streets

Cultural Tips

- Language: English, Tok Pisin, and Hiri Motu are widely spoken in the capital
- Respect traditional customs and avoid photographing locals without permission
- Dress conservatively in public places
- Public transport is limited and not recommended for tourists
- Betel nut chewing is common but can be off-putting for visitors — it’s best to observe rather than partake

Souvenirs to Bring Home

- Bilum bags: Colorful, handwoven string bags used by locals
- Wood carvings: Masks, bowls, and statues representing tribal art
- Shell jewelry: Handmade pieces sold in local markets
- Coffee: PNG is known for its high-quality Arabica beans
- Traditional paintings and bark cloth art

Estimated Daily Budget

- Budget: $50–$80 USD
- Mid-Range: $100–$150 USD
- Luxury: $200+ USD

Safety and Travel Tips

- Port Moresby has a reputation for safety concerns — stay in well-secured accommodations and avoid wandering alone
- Use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transportation
- Avoid walking after dark and stay alert in public markets
- Drink bottled water and avoid ice from unknown sources
- Travel insurance is highly recommended due to limited medical facilities

Final Thoughts

Port Moresby may not be the easiest city to visit, but for those willing to embrace its raw authenticity, it offers a gateway into a nation unlike any other. Whether you’re exploring traditional villages, learning about PNG’s wartime past, or venturing out into the wilderness, Moresby is the start of a journey into one of the last truly off-the-beaten-path countries in the world.

This capital may be rugged, but it's filled with resilience, color, and depth — and for the right traveler, it becomes an unforgettable adventure.