Kimbe Travel Guide (New Britain/Papua New Guinea/Oceania)

Introduction to Kimbe

Kimbe is a charming town located in New Britain, in Papua New Guinea, Oceania. The town is famous for its mesmerizing natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, and untouched coral reefs, Kimbe is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, and tourists seeking a peaceful getaway experience. This travel guide is designed to help you plan your trip to Kimbe, Papua New Guinea’s hidden gem.

List of Places to Visit in Kimbe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kimbe War Cemetery: This is a monument dedicated to the soldiers who died during World War II. It is a serene and emotional experience to visit the cemetery to pay your respects.
Hoskins Church: The Hoskins Church is an architectural marvel and is one of the most popular sites in Kimbe. Visitors are awed by its unique design and the beautiful stained glass windows.
Baiyer River Sanctuary: The sanctuary is home to over 300 bird species, including some species endemic to Papua New Guinea. An absolute must-visit for bird lovers.

Natural Attractions of Kimbe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kimbe Bay: The dazzling beauty of Kimbe Bay is breathtaking with clean blue waters and untouched coral reefs. The bay is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Mt. Sinewit: A challenging hike to the mountain top provides picturesque views of Kimbe City from above.
Garu Wildlife Management Area: This area’s beauty is unmatched, with lagoons, waterfalls, and dense rainforests. It’s an excellent place for bird-watching, hiking, and admiring the natural beauty of Kimbe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kimbe

Kimbe Town Walk: A walk through the town will lead you to many historical and cultural sites, and help you discover the local lifestyle.
Garu Mala Trail: It is a 4- hour walking track with great views of the Kimbe Bay.
Kilu Cave Trail: This is a moderate walk through lush mangroves and interesting caves.

Best Things to Do in Kimbe: Activities and Tours

Snorkeling and Diving: The Kimbe Bay has over 400 species of coral, making it a perfect place for diving and snorkeling.
Fishing: Kimbe is known for its exotic fish species. Join a fishing tour or go solo for an unforgettable experience.
Cultural Shows: A chance to experience the local culture and customs of Kimbe.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kimbe

Day	Activity
1	Arrive and relax
2	Explore Kimbe Town
3	Visit Culturally Important Attractions
4	Visit Natural Attractions of Kimbe
5	Hiking/Biking Trails
6	Water Activities
7	Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kimbe

Must-Try Dishes

Mumu: A traditional dish from Papua New Guinea consisting of meat and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Sago: A starchy meal made of sago flour. It is usually eaten with fish or meat dishes.
Coconut Crab: The largest land-living invertebrate in the world is a traditional food of the New Britain people.

Local Beverages

Coconut Milk: Freshly made and sweetened coconut milk is a refreshing drink for hot days.
Yaqona/Kava: A relaxing drink made from the Piper methysticum plant.

Where to Stay in Kimbe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Walindi Plantation Resort: A luxury resort famous for its dive center and its breathtaking gardens.
Kimbe Bay Hotel: A serene hotel with great facilities, centrally located in Kimbe Town.
Jomba Guesthouse: A popular budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Kimbe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wooden Masks: A popular souvenir of Kimbe is beautifully detailed masks made of local woods.
Shell Jewellery: From necklaces to bracelets, shell jewellery is a great item to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kimbe

The people of Kimbe are welcoming and friendly. The culture is a mix of traditional Melanesian customs and modern-day influences. Be respectful towards the locals and their customs. Women should dress modestly while visiting traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit Kimbe

The best time to visit Kimbe is between May and October, during the dry season. The water is clear, and diving and snorkelling are at their best. The temperature is comfortable, and the skies are usually clear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kimbe

Do:

Dress modestly while visiting traditional villages.
Respect the local customs and practices.
Carry insect repellent.

Don’t:

Take photos of the locals without their permission.
Vandalize or damage natural and cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kimbe

Kimbe is a generally safe place to visit. However, petty crime is common. Carry minimal cash and keep your valuables safe. Be cautious after dark and avoid walking alone in deserted areas.

Health in Kimbe

It is recommended to take precautions such as drinking bottled water and avoiding street food. Consult with your physician about recommended vaccinations before traveling.

Getting to Kimbe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kimbe is reachable by air and sea.

Airports Near Kimbe

Hoskins Airport, located 20 km south of Kimbe Town, is the nearest airport.

Bus Stations Near Kimbe

Minibuses, taxis, and buses are available for local transportation.

Other Options

Ferries connect other parts of the New Britain Island with Kimbe.

How to Get Around in Kimbe

Minibuses, taxis, and buses are the common modes of transportation in Kimbe. Bicycles could also be rented from hotels to explore the town.

Where to Go Next from Kimbe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rabaul: An old town with an active volcano nearby.
Kokopo: A popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and diving spots.
Volcano and Hot Springs: There are a few tours available within the area to explore the nearby hot springs and volcano areas.

Conclusion

Kimbe is a place of enchanting natural beauty coupled with traditional Melanesian culture. The town offers an array of outdoor adventure options and significant cultural and historical sites to explore. With this comprehensive travel guide, plan your trip to Kimbe and experience the enchanting beauty of Papua New Guinea.