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Papua New Guinea’s distinctive culture, natural beauty and adventure experiences were showcased to thousands of travellers and tourism industry representatives at the Travel Madness Expo 2026 in Manila, Philippines.
Held from 10–12 July at the SMX Convention Center, the three-day event brought together airlines, tourism organisations, travel agencies, hotels and tour operators from around the world.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) participated alongside Air Niugini and Karanas Comfort Tours, a PNG tour operator, to strengthen awareness of the country as a unique travel destination and expand its presence within the growing Asian tourism market.
Throughout the expo, visitors to the Papua New Guinea booth learned about the country’s rich cultural heritage, pristine natural environments, world-class diving, trekking, birdwatching and other authentic visitor experiences. Representatives from PNGTPA, Air Niugini and Karanas Comfort Tours engaged directly with visitors, providing information on destinations, air services, tour packages and travel experiences available across Papua New Guinea.
PNGTPA Executive Manager for Marketing and Promotions, Mr Joel Keimelo, said the expo provided an important opportunity to present Papua New Guinea directly to travellers and tourism partners in the Philippines.
“Papua New Guinea offers experiences that are genuinely distinctive—from our extraordinary cultures and landscapes to our diving, trekking, birdwatching and community-based tourism experiences. Our participation in the Travel Madness Expo allows us to share these stories directly with the Asian market and build stronger relationships with travellers and industry partners who are looking for authentic and meaningful destinations,” Mr Keimelo said.
The participation of Karanas Comfort Tours provided visitors with direct access to a locally based tourism operator, helping connect destination promotion with practical information about tours and travel experiences within Papua New Guinea.
Adding colour and energy to PNG’s presence was the Galomarubu Kitoro Cultural Group from Central Province, whose performances captivated audiences on the expo’s main stage and at the PNG booth.
Their traditional dances attracted enthusiastic crowds, with visitors gathering to take photographs and learn more about the country’s diverse cultures and traditions.
The expo’s official opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Papua New Guinea’s Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Stephen Pokanis, and Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia, Mr Joshua Koh, together with other dignitaries and tourism industry leaders.
Mr Koh said participation in major tourism events throughout Asia was critical to building destination awareness and generating interest in travel to Papua New Guinea.
“Asia continues to be an important growth market for both Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea. Events such as the Travel Madness Expo provide valuable opportunities to engage directly with travellers, travel agents and industry partners, helping us tell Papua New Guinea’s story and showcase the incredible experiences available in our country,” Mr Koh said.
Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Milne, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to supporting the growth of PNG’s tourism industry and strengthening connectivity with important international markets.
“Tourism is an important contributor to economic growth and employment in Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini is proud to work alongside the PNGTPA and our tourism industry partners to position the country as a must-visit destination,” Mr Milne said.
Following the Travel Madness Expo, Air Niugini and PNGTPA will continue promoting Papua New Guinea in Asia, with travel trade and consumer events scheduled for Singapore in August and Hong Kong in September.
These activities form part of continuing efforts to strengthen international tourism partnerships, increase destination awareness and encourage more travellers to experience Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary culture, nature, adventure and hospitality.◼️
For further information, email: joel.keimelo@papuanewguinea.travel
More than five prominent European Travel Agents travelled to Papua New Guinea to experience PNG’s unique birdlife and picturesque landscapes from Wednesday 9 to Wednesday 16 October this year.
The exclusive familiarization (FAM) tour was a tour organized by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in collaboration with Air Niugini (PX) and Flight Directors UK.
This trip was the outcome of TPA’s participation in the UK’s Global Bird Fair event earlier this year, which generated over 50 leads and sales, sparking international interest in PNG’s vast bird biodiversity. The coordinated FAM tour was organized by the Managing Director for Flight Directors UK, Air Niugini’s General Sales Agent (GSA), Vikky Joyce, alongside representatives from TPA.
The tour’s aim was to showcase PNG’s potential as a world-class bird-watching destination, with an itinerary designed to maximize exposure to diverse bird species and pristine habitats across renowned locations such as Walindi, Magic Mountain Lodge, Kumul Lodge, Rondon Ridge, Lake Murray, and Variarata National Park.
General Manager of Spazio and Vice President of Commercial for Distal & ITR Group, Francesco Veneziano, who was a part of the tour, commended TPA and PX for the opportunity for him to see PNG’s tourism potential.
“I am deeply grateful to PX, TPA, and our sponsors for providing me with this opportunity. This FAM tour has equipped us with the firsthand insights we need to champion Papua New Guinea’s eco-tourism potential in Italy and beyond.
The Italian market holds tremendous potential for sustainable tourism in PNG. We’re committed to developing tourist traffic that values PNG’s pristine environments as a final frontier of natural beauty—a journey that will bring great benefits to all involved,” said Veneziano.
Account Manager for Flight Directors, Alison Sorrell, who was also on the tour, highlighted PNG’s remarkable beaty.
“It was thrilling to explore PNG’s beautiful islands, and Walindi Resort was truly amazing. The large bungalows, fully equipped with all necessary facilities, were set in stunning gardens. Waking up to the sound of birds and watching the sunrise over the ocean was unforgettable.
“We were even able to observe the King of Saxony up close, which was truly amazing! This trip has been a memorable experience and an invaluable introduction to Papua New Guinea’s potential for bird tourism,” said Sorrell.
Walindi Plantation Resort, known for its traditional bungalows, breathtaking ocean views, and nearby rainforests, offered a welcoming start to the itinerary. Birding excursions revealed spectacular species such as the Raggiana Bird of Paradise and Blue Bird of Paradise, thrilling the participants in the tour, including BBC Wildlife TV presenter Mike Dilger and acclaimed bird photographer Laurens Steijn.
Bob Bates from Trans Niugini Tours added another level of adventure by arranging light aircraft transport to Lake Murray in the Western Province, where Bensbach Wildlife Lodge, served as an ideal base for bird-watching and wildlife photography.
Local community involvement was integral to the tour’s success, with residents and guides sharing their knowledge of PNG’s birdlife and engaging directly with visitors. This initiative aligns closely with TPA’s sustainable tourism goals, which prioritize protecting PNG’s natural habitats and enriching the economic prospects of local communities.
Future efforts by TPA will continue to focus on attracting special-interest groups such as photographers and nature enthusiasts, diversifying tourism opportunities while promoting the conservation of PNG’s environmental.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended the efforts of his team, PX and Flight Directors.
“Our partnership with Air Niugini and Flight Directors has proven that Papua New Guinea holds significant potential in the birding and eco-tourism market.
We look forward to expanding these initiatives, sharing PNG’s unique natural wonders with a global audience, and supporting sustainable tourism practices that benefit all,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted the importance of the tour to attract special tour groups to experience PNG’s million different journey.
“Our hope is that their firsthand accounts and enthusiasm will spark a ripple effect, positioning PNG as a leading bird-watching and nature-based tourism destination.
The goal of this FAM tour was to showcase PNG’s remarkable bird biodiversity to industry professionals who can promote our unique country globally, and it can only be done when we provide an authentic experience of our landscapes and endemic bird species,” said Uvovo.
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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) and Air Niugini have signed a Collaborative Agreement to strengthen PNG’s tourism in an official ceremony on Tuesday 22 April, Port Moresby.
Air Niugini and TPA’s partnership is aimed to raise awareness and interests in PNG’s unique culture and natural beauty. This partnership also seeks to stimulate the growth of tourism in the country.
TPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo described this partnership as a necessary tool to promote the country as a tourist destination.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to elevate Papua New Guinea as a premier destination.
Through this collaboration, we aim to improve the quality and diversity of our tourism products and services, as well as our infrastructure and connectivity, to realize the country’s full potential,” said Uvovo.
Both Air Niugini and PNGTPA recognizes the importance of sustainable tourism in PNG, which creates positive impacts for local communities, the environment, and the country’s rich heritage. This initiative strengthens the potential of tourism development in driving the country’s economy and social progress, generating income and employment.
Market intelligence and customer feedback will be shared between Air Niugini and PNGTPA to create effective marketing strategies. Collaborative efforts will result in attractive brochures, flyers, videos, and other materials showcasing Papua New Guinea’s diverse destinations and experiences.
Air Niugini’s Acting CEO, Gary Seddon reiterated the importance of the partnership between TPA and Air Niugini.
“At Air Niugini, we recognize our pivotal role as one of the largest players in tourism, and we are fully committed to leveraging this position.
Through this partnership, we aim to address the core challenges and drive significant development gains in the tourism sector,” said Seddon.
Seddon also introduced Air Niugini’s plan to bring in more aircrafts to drive tourism throughout the country.
“With the introduction of our new fleet, both wide-body and narrow-body aircraft, we are poised to connect tourists from around the world to the breathtaking seas and mountains of PNG. We are laying the groundwork now to reap the benefits in the future,” said Seddon.
Air Niugini will also offer special incentives to media representatives, travel agents, tour operators, and influencers promoting Papua New Guinea. The airline will also support PNGTPA in organizing trade shows, roadshows, familiarization trips, and other events to raise awareness among potential visitors and industry stakeholders.
Travelers booking flights to Papua New Guinea through Air Niugini’s platforms will also enjoy special fares, packages, and deals, along with relevant travel tips to enrich their journey. Additionally, Air Niugini aims to expand its network and connectivity to key source markets, ensuring flight schedules meet traveller demands.
To address concerns regarding law and order, the collaboration will support campaigns promoting a positive image of Papua New Guinea, building confidence and trust among potential visitors.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority
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