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West New Britain is a volcanic and coastal province on the northern edge of Papua New Guinea’s New Britain island. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thriving marine life, the region is a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore active volcanoes, snorkel in world-class coral reefs, go wild river fishing and experience traditional PNG culture in friendly rural communities.
Whether you’re hiking to steaming crater rims, diving with barracuda in Kimbe Bay, or soaking in natural hot springs, West New Britain offers some of the country’s most memorable travel experiences, all with fewer crowds and untouched surroundings.
West New Britain Province lies on the north coast of New Britain island, bordered by East New Britain to the east and separated from mainland Papua New Guinea by the Bismarck Sea. The provincial capital, Kimbe, sits along the coast and serves as the main hub for travel, commerce, and accommodation.
The province is shaped by volcanic activity, with several active volcanoes including Mount Ulawun, one of PNG’s most prominent peaks. Dense rainforests, coral-rich coastlines, and geothermal features define the landscape, offering a mix of natural environments across the island.
West New Britain is home to approximately 356,343 people (based on the 2021 National Population Estimate). The population is spread across coastal towns, inland villages, and remote islands.
The province is linguistically diverse, with over 25 languages spoken across its districts. Tok Pisin and English are widely used, especially in urban centres like Kimbe, while local languages such as Kove, Bola, and Nakanai are spoken within individual communities. This rich cultural and linguistic diversity reflects the broader complexity of Papua New Guinea’s identity.
Interested in learning more about the languages?
West New Britain offers a mix of volcanic adventures, diving hotspots, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re after outdoor exploration or coastal relaxation, this province delivers unique experiences.
Top activities include
Kimbe is the commercial and administrative centre of West New Britain Province, located on the northern coast along the shores of Kimbe Bay. It’s the province’s main gateway for travellers and a practical base for exploring the region.
In Kimbe, you’ll find:
Nearby activities include:
Sportfishing and reef fishing – Target species include tuna, trevally, and barracuda, with guided tours available from local operators.
Getting to West New Britain is simple with daily flights from Port Moresby to Hoskins Airport, located just outside Kimbe. The airport services most travellers to the province and connects to domestic hubs across Papua New Guinea, including Lae and Rabaul.
From Hoskins, local transport options include:
The best time to visit West New Britain is during the dry season from May to October, when conditions are ideal for diving, trekking, bird watching and other outdoor adventures. These months also offer clearer visibility for underwater activities in Kimbe Bay and better road access for inland tours.
While not as frequent as in the Highlands, local festivals and community events occasionally take place around Independence Day in September, offering insight into local customs and community spirit.
Ready to experience the natural beauty and culture of West New Britain?
Start planning your journey to West New Britain Papua New Guinea today!
New Ireland Province is a long, narrow island region in the far northeast of Papua New Guinea. Known for its untouched natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and rich marine life, it’s one of the country’s most captivating island destinations. With its palm-fringed beaches, forest-canopied estuaries, and welcoming communities, the province offers visitors a slower pace of life and plenty of adventure.
The capital, Kavieng, sits at the northern tip of the island and serves as the main hub for travellers – who can explore the length of the mainland along the scenic Boluminski Highway. Visitors can travel the depths from here, visitors can access pristine dive sites, world-class surf breaks, historical WWII sites, and traditional villages that celebrate the unique customs of the region.
New Ireland Province PNG is part of the Bismarck Archipelago, a group of islands, located to the northeast of mainland Papua New Guinea. The province stretches over 360 kilometres from north to south, forming a narrow, curved island bordered by the Bismarck Sea to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. It also includes numerous smaller islands such as the Tsoi, Tabar, Lihir, Tanga, and Feni groups.
The provincial capital is Kavieng, situated at the northern tip, while the southern end tapers off near Namatanai. The province is divided into two main districts: Kavieng District in the north and Namatanai District in the south, with many communities living along the coastlines.
As of the most recent census estimates, New Ireland is home to approximately 194,000 people, living across both the mainland and outer islands. Over 20 languages are spoken across New Ireland, with Tigak, Nalik, and Patpatar being among the most common. English, Tok Pisin, and local languages are widely used in daily communication.
Interested in learning more about the languages?
Kavieng, the capital of New Ireland Province, is the main entry point for travellers arriving by air or sea. Located at the northern tip of the island, Kavieng offers a laid-back, tropical atmosphere with a rich blend of colonial heritage and Melanesian culture.
The town features a range of accommodation options, from locally run guesthouses to lodges and off-shore waterfront resorts. Local markets and small shops provide fresh produce, seafood, and handcrafted goods, giving visitors a taste of the region’s daily life.
Coastal views, palm trees, and a relaxed pace make Kavieng a great base for exploring the province. It’s also a popular departure point for diving, fishing, surfing, and island-hopping tours. The town’s history as a former German outpost adds to its charm, with remnants of colonial architecture and war-era sites still visible today.
New Ireland Province offers a mix of marine adventure, cultural immersion, and historical exploration. Whether you’re a diver, surfer, or culture-seeker, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy:
New Ireland Province is the birthplace of Malagan culture, one of PNG’s most distinctive artistic and spiritual traditions. Malagan refers to an intricate system of carvings, masks, and ceremonial rites used to honour the dead and preserve ancestral identity.
These elaborate wooden carvings, featuring intricate designs and symbolic figures, are created by skilled local artisans and displayed during Malagan funerary ceremonies, which can take months or years to prepare. The ceremonies are not only a tribute to the deceased but also a vibrant celebration of life, storytelling, and community ties.
Beyond the mainland of New Ireland Province lies a network of remote island groups, each offering unique natural and cultural experiences. These include:
all accessible via boat or domestic flights from Kavieng.
With minimal tourist traffic, these islands offer true off-the-grid escapes and a deeper connection to PNG’s natural and cultural diversity. Ideal for adventurous travellers seeking peaceful, raw beauty and genuine local hospitality.
New Ireland Province is easily reached by daily flights from Port Moresby to Kavieng, serviced by Air Niugini and PNG Air. Travellers can also connect via Rabaul or other nearby islands, depending on their itinerary.
Once in Kavieng, local travel options include:
The best time to visit New Ireland is during the dry season from May to October, when conditions are ideal for snorkelling, diving, and cultural exploration. If you’re planning a surfing holiday, the surf season runs from November to April, with consistent swells along the northern coast near Kavieng.
Start planning your visit with our interactive map below, showcasing key attractions, activities, and places to stay across the province. Whether you’re interested in surfing, diving, exploring Malagan culture, or relaxing on remote island beaches, New Ireland offers a unique mix of adventure and tradition.
Browse accommodation options, connect with local tour providers, and prepare to discover the natural beauty and cultural depth of New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea.
The Admiralty Islands and a scattering of low-lying, mostly uninhabited atolls, form the province of Manus, whose northern border touches the equator. Plan well for your Manusian adventure, as tourists are a rare sight here. You can spend a morning browsing the market in the main hub of Lorengau before negotiating your afternoon activities with a local guide.
Domestic flights arrive five times a week at the Momote Airport in Manus from Port Moresby. Arrange a shuttle service in advance or take a PMV bus to Lorengau town. From the airport it’s a 30-minute drive west.
Be sure to enlist a guide to help you discover all the hidden charms of the Gazelle Peninsular. Take a tour of the war relics, barge tunnels and caverns on the road from Kokopo to Rabaul. Or visit the Duke of York Islands, 45 minutes from Kokopo by boat, where you can scuba dive, snorkel and picnic under the coconut trees overlooking aquamarine waters.
Domestic flights arrive at Tokua Airport from Port Moresby daily. It’s a 10-minute drive to Kokopo. Cruise ships also dock here regularly.
The Autonomous Region of Bougainville has been known for its picture-perfect beaches and bays since French explorers spread stories of its beauty almost 200 years ago. Choose from 60 lakes to visit, or brave the sinkholes, caves and volcanoes to make for an unforgettable journey. Look into the Reed Festival, Canoe Festival, and Chocolate Festival for complete cultural immersion.
Domestic flights arrive in Buka from Port Moresby three times a week. Flights are scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with the aircraft returning the same days.
Whether you choose to brave a mighty river crossing, walk in lush mountainous landscapes or experience the finest of traditional Highlands cuisine, Jiwaka will leave you awe stricken and in a state of bliss.
Three large ethnic groups live in unison here atop one of the highest places in Papua New Guinea. The Jimi, a proud race of mountain folk that still live an almost Neolithic existence along the north-eastern region of the province will fascinate you with their modest existence and truly shake your ways of viewing the ever-changing world. The Waghi, thought of as the high-born folk of the land, live a more contemporary existence mostly due to their location along the main Highlands Highway. And of course the Kambia people, the smallest in number of the three, who after years of inter-clan merging, have some who can speak as many as five different languages from nearby areas.
If it’s a rugged adventure atop cliff faces that you seek, or maybe a relaxing night or two in pristine forests, Jiwaka’s scenery and people will delight you.
Domestic flights arrive into neighbouring Mt Hagen airport from Port Moresby. From the airport, it’s a one-hour drive by car or 4WD to Banz, the provincial capital of Jiwaka province.
Hela province is one of Papua New Guinea’s newest provinces, formed from three Southern Highlands districts in 2012. From the capital of Tari you’ll be delighted by our unspoilt environment and vibrant Hela customs. Home to the iconic Huli Wigmen, this is the place to learn about our striking body decoration and hear the melodies of our flute-like panpipes and bamboo Jew’s-harps.
Domestic flights arrive directly into Tari from Port Moresby daily. The Highlands Highway connects Tari to Mt Hagen, Goroka and Lae.
The capital city, Mt Hagen, is a bustling commercial centre where wealth from coffee and tea plantations has brought rapid change to traditional lifestyle. If you want to visit the last frontier of Papua New Guinea this is it. Taste the sweetest strawberries at Rondon Ridge, attend one of the regular cultural festivals held throughout the province and don’t miss the kaleidoscope of colours on view at the Saturday markets.
Domestic flights arrive directly into the Mt Hagen Airport from Port Moresby. From the airport it’s a 30-minute stretch by taxi ride to the city centre. Your hotel will provide airport transfers for your convenience. The Okuk (Highlands) Highway connects Mt Hagen to Goroka and other Highlands centres.
In Mendi and Ialibu you’ll get a strong feeling for the intricate social systems that define the Southern Highlands. This is one of the few remaining places where the traditional way of life can be seen in everyday living, making it an adventure seeker’s dream. Summit the country’s second-highest mountain, Mount Giluwe (4,368m), explore the tracks around Mount Ialibu (3,465m), or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery at Lake Kutubu.
Domestic flights arrive directly into the Mendi or Moro airports from Port Moresby. Your accommodation will provide airport transfers for your convenience. The Highlands Highway connects Mendi to Mt Hagen.
Bordered by Madang to the north and the Gulf to the south, Simbu’s provincial capital, Kundiawa, sits beside a spectacular airstrip, built on a sloping ridge beneath the towering mountains. Cold weather gear is recommended in these occasionally snowy mountaintops. The province is dotted with a number of hospitable guesthouses that will accommodate your every trekking and touring request.
Take a domestic flight from Port Moresby to Goroka then drive on the Highlands Highway through Daulo pass to Kundiawa.
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