Papua New Guinea is one of the most unique and diverse travel destinations in the world. With breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and thrilling adventures, it offers experiences unlike anywhere else. From dense rainforests and rugged mountain trails to pristine coral reefs and vibrant festivals, PNG is a paradise for travellers seeking something truly special.
Papua New Guinea has something for everyone. This guide highlights the top 10 must-visit attractions, showcasing the best of the country’s natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historic sites.
1. Kokoda Trail (Adventure & History)
Why Visit?
The Kokoda Trail is one of the world’s most legendary trekking routes, attracting adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. This 96-kilometre jungle track played a crucial role in World War II, where Australian and Papua New Guinean forces fought in a gruelling campaign against Japanese troops. Today, hiking the Kokoda Trail is both a physical challenge and a moving historical experience, offering beautiful landscapes and a chance to connect with Papua New Guinea’s wartime past.
What to Expect?
- A challenging multi-day trek through dense rainforests, steep mountain ranges, and river crossings.
- Remote villages along the trail where local communities welcome trekkers and share their culture.
- WWII battle sites, memorials, and relics, providing insight into the historical significance of the trail.
- A physically demanding journey that requires good fitness and preparation, with expert-guided tours available.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May–October) is the best time to hike the Kokoda Trail, as the weather is more stable, with less rainfall and drier conditions. The wet season (November–April) brings heavy rains, making the trail muddy and difficult to navigate.
2. Port Moresby Nature Park (Wildlife & Conservation)
Why Visit?
Port Moresby Nature Park is the best place in Papua New Guinea to see native wildlife up close. Located in the capital city, this award-winning park is home to tree kangaroos, cassowaries, birds of paradise, and other unique species found only in PNG. It also serves as a conservation centre, protecting endangered wildlife and educating visitors about the country’s incredible biodiversity.
What to Expect?
- Scenic walking trails through lush gardens, showcasing tropical plants, orchids, and rainforest habitats.
- Up-close encounters with iconic PNG wildlife, including the endangered Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo, the spotted tail cuscus and the striking cassowary.
- A well-maintained and family-friendly environment, perfect for visitors of all ages.
- Informative wildlife talks and exhibits, offering insights into PNG’s diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Best Time to Visit
Port Moresby Nature Park is open year-round, but visiting in the morning is best to avoid the afternoon heat and catch the animals when they are most active.
3. Sepik River (Culture & Scenic Beauty)
Why Visit?
The Sepik River is one of Papua New Guinea’s most culturally rich and visually stunning regions. Known for its unique tribal traditions, intricate wood carvings, and sacred spirit houses, a visit to the Sepik offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic village life and time-honoured artistic traditions.
What to Expect?
- A scenic river cruise passing through remote villages, each with its own distinctive culture.
- Visits to spirit houses (Haus Tambaran), the ceremonial centres of Sepik communities, adorned with striking carvings and totems.
- Masterfully crafted wooden sculptures, masks, and canoes, created by some of PNG’s most skilled artisans.
- A deep dive into tribal customs, initiation rituals, and storytelling, offering a truly immersive experience.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May–October) is the best time to visit, as river levels are more stable, making it easier to navigate and access villages.
4. Mount Hagen & The Mount Hagen Cultural Show (Highlands Culture)
Why Visit?
The Mount Hagen Cultural Show in the Western Highlands Province, is one of Papua New Guinea’s most famous and spectacular tribal festivals. This vibrant event brings together hundreds of tribes from across PNG, showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity through elaborate headdresses, body paint, and traditional dances.
What to Expect?
- A stunning display of tribal traditions, where performers wear brightly coloured feathers, woven grass skirts, and intricate face paint.
- Traditional sing-sings (tribal performances) featuring rhythmic drumming, chanting, and dancing.
- A chance to interact with local communities and learn about their customs, rituals, and history.
- The natural beauty of Mount Hagen, with its cool mountain climate and lush highland scenery.
Best Time to Visit
The Mount Hagen Cultural Show takes place in August. For those who can’t attend in August, there are a number of other shows and festivals throughout the year.
5. Tufi Fjords (Scenic Landscapes & Diving)
Why Visit?
The Tufi Fjords are one of Papua New Guinea’s most breathtaking natural wonders, often referred to as the “Scandinavia of the Tropics”. These volcanic fjords, combined with coral reefs and rainforest, make Tufi a top destination for scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and world-class diving.
What to Expect?
- Unspoiled tropical fjords with cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters.
- Snorkelling and scuba diving in some of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems, including WWII wreck sites and vibrant coral reefs.
- Traditional outrigger canoe rides, offering a peaceful way to explore the fjords.
- Cultural experiences with local villages, including traditional Oro facial tattoos and sago preparation demonstrations.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May–October) offers the best diving conditions with excellent visibility and calm waters.
6. Rabaul & Tavurvur Volcano (Volcanic Adventure & WWII History)
Why Visit?
Rabaul, located in East New Britain Province, is famous for its volcanic landscapes and World War II history. The Tavurvur Volcano, an active stratovolcano, dominates the skyline and offers a dramatic setting for adventurous travellers. The town of Rabaul, partially buried in volcanic ash from past eruptions, is also home to historical sites, war relics, and spectacular viewpoints.
What to Expect?
- A hike to Tavurvur Volcano, where visitors can witness bubbling hot springs and steaming vents.
- Stunning panoramic views from the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory, one of the best spots to see the smoking crater and surrounding landscapes.
- A visit to WWII tunnels, wrecks, and bunkers, including Japanese war tunnels used during the occupation.
- Exploring Rabaul’s vibrant harbour, a major naval base during WWII, now a hub for diving and fishing.
Best Time to Visit
Rabaul is accessible year-round, but mornings are the best time to visit Tavurvur Volcano before the heat of the day sets in.
7. Milne Bay & The Coral Triangle (Diving & Marine Life)
Why Visit?
Milne Bay is a diver’s paradise, situated within the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and unique marine life, Milne Bay offers some of Papua New Guinea’s best underwater experiences.
What to Expect?
- World-class diving and snorkelling, with rich marine biodiversity, including pygmy seahorses, giant manta rays, and whale sharks.
- Historic WWII wreck dives, where divers can explore sunken ships and aircraft from the war.
- Pristine coral reefs, home to thousands of fish species and stunning underwater landscapes.
- Idyllic island getaways, with remote island resorts and local villages offering a relaxing escape.
- Annual National Kenu & Kundu Festival celebrating ancient Milne Bay seafaring culture
Best Time to Visit
The best diving conditions are from April to November, when underwater visibility is at its peak, and the seas are calmer.
8. Goroka & The Goroka Show (Highlands Culture & Festivals)
Why Visit?
The Goroka Show is Papua New Guinea’s largest and most spectacular cultural festival, bringing together over 100 tribes in a dazzling display of traditional dress, song, and dance. Held every September, this event offers one of the best opportunities to witness PNG’s tribal heritage and diversity in one place.
What to Expect?
- Incredible sing-sings (tribal performances) featuring drumming, chanting, and ritual dances.
- Headdresses and face paint, with tribes showcasing their unique cultural identities.
- Opportunities to interact with local communities, learn about their customs, and experience traditional hospitality.
- A vibrant atmosphere filled with music, storytelling, and celebrations that immerse visitors in PNG’s living traditions.
Best Time to Visit
The Goroka Show takes place every September. For those who can’t attend in September, there are a number of other shows and festivals throughout the year.
9. Madang & Its Pristine Coastline (Scenic Beauty & Water Activities)
Why Visit?
Madang is often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in Papua New Guinea, surrounded by tropical beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, water activities, and cultural exploration, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
What to Expect?
- Snorkelling, kayaking and diving at world-class coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Exploring WWII wrecks scattered across the waters around Madang, offering fascinating historical dives.
- Hiking through lush rainforests and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.
- Boat tours that take you to nearby islands and secluded beaches, ideal for relaxing or picnicking.
Best Time to Visit
Madang is a year-round destination, but diving conditions are best from April to November.
10. Bougainville Island (Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure)
Why Visit?
Bougainville Island is an untouched paradise offering a perfect escape for those seeking a more remote and authentic PNG experience. Known for its rugged mountains, hidden beaches, and rich history, Bougainville remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets, ideal for travellers looking for both adventure and cultural immersion.
What to Expect?
- Trekking Mount Balbi, PNG’s highest peak, offers stunning views and a challenging adventure for hiking enthusiasts.
- Diving and snorkelling in pristine, untouched waters with diverse marine life.
- Engaging with Bougainvillean communities, learning about their culture, traditions, and post-conflict recovery.
- Discovering WWII history, including bunkers and relics that tell the story of the island’s role during the war.
- Cultural festivals: Mona Festival, Tama Festival and the Chocolate Festival
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May–October) offers the best conditions for trekking and accessibility, as weather can impact roads and travel to remote areas.
Discover the Best of Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is a destination like no other, offering an extraordinary mix of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and adventures. With its rich traditions, stunning coastlines, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife, PNG promises once-in-a-lifetime experiences for those seeking adventure, history, and cultural immersion.
Ready to explore? Plan your journey based on what excites you most, whether it’s festivals and events, hiking, diving, or cultural discovery. Start planning your Papua New Guinea adventure planning today!
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