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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!
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