Kavieng Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, and food to eat in Kavieng, Papua New Guinea with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kavieng

Kavieng is a small town located in the northernmost part of Papua New Guinea’s New Ireland province. Its scenic location near the coast, lush forests, and picturesque small islands makes it a favorite among adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, it’s not hard to fall in love with this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Kavieng

Kavieng has plenty of attractions, both natural and cultural, that you can explore during your visit. Here are the top ones to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kavieng Museum
  • Lissenung Island WWII Bunkers
  • Kakapetaka Cultural Centre
  • Malagan Beach War Memorial

Natural Attractions of Kavieng: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nusa Island Retreat
  • Lavongai (New Hanover) Island
  • New Ireland Forest Preserve
  • Blue Lagoon

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kavieng

For adventure seekers looking to explore Kavieng on foot or bike, here are some of the best trails to try out:

  • Kavieng Nature Park
  • Lavongai (New Hanover) Island hiking trails
  • Nusa Island Loop
  • Panasesa Trail

Best Things to Do in Kavieng: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Kayaking at Nusa Island Retreat
  • Fishing trips in Lavongai (New Hanover) Island
  • Cultural village tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Kavieng

Here’s a sample itinerary for you to follow during a week-long stay in Kavieng:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in at your accommodation; free time to explore Kavieng
Day 2 Visit Kavieng Museum and Lissenung Island WWII Bunkers
Day 3 Go on a kayaking tour at Nusa Island Retreat, followed by a sunset cruise
Day 4 Explore Malagan Beach War Memorial and Kakapetaka Cultural Centre
Day 5 Day trip to Blue Lagoon and New Ireland Forest Preserve
Day 6 Go on a scuba diving or snorkeling trip in Lavongai (New Hanover) Island
Day 7 Departure from Kavieng

Food and Drink Scene of Kavieng

Kavieng’s food and drink scene is a delightful mix of international and local cuisine. Here are the top dishes and local beverages you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kokoda (raw fish salad)
  • Um (taro and coconut cream soup)
  • Tuluk (smoked fish)
  • Wara (fresh seafood)

Local Beverages

  • Coconut milk
  • Red betel nut juice
  • Karambai (fermented sugarcane drink)

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

Kavieng has a decent range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the top-rated ones:

  • Nusa Island Retreat
  • Kavieng Hotel
  • Malagan Beach Resort
  • Sea View Lodge

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

Kavieng is known for its unique handicrafts and souvenirs that are perfect for bringing back home as a memento. Here are some local products you should consider purchasing:

  • Malagan masks
  • Tapa cloth
  • Wooden sculptures and carvings
  • Traditional woven bags

Local Culture and Customs of Kavieng

Kavieng is home to the Malagan culture, which is known for its intricate carvings and mask-making. The culture is deeply rooted in ancestor worship, and many traditional practices involve offering tributes to the ancestors. It’s important to respect and appreciate the local culture during your visit here.

Best Time to Visit Kavieng

The best time to visit Kavieng is from May to October, when the weather is dry and perfect for outdoor activities. The months of November to April are considered the wet season, and heavy rains and storms can sometimes disrupt your travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kavieng

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Carry plenty of water and sun protection while exploring outdoors
  • Negotiate prices at markets and vendors

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places
  • Photograph people without their consent
  • Litter or harm the environment in any way
  • Touch or disturb cultural artifacts without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Kavieng

Kavieng is generally a safe place for travelers. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can sometimes occur, so it’s important to be vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as keeping your belongings safe and not carrying valuable items with you while wandering around alone at night.

Health in Kavieng

Kavieng is a malaria-endemic area, so it’s important to take necessary precautions, such as wearing mosquito repellent and taking anti-malaria medication. It’s also advised to drink bottled or boiled water during your stay here.

Getting to Kavieng: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Kavieng can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Kavieng

  • Kavieng Airport

Bus Stations Near Kavieng

  • N/A

Other Options

  • Private cars/taxis
  • Boats/ferry services from other nearby islands

How to Get Around in Kavieng

The best way to get around Kavieng is by renting a car or hiring a taxi. Public transportation options, such as buses and taxis, are not reliable. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a bike or walk around for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from Kavieng: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rabaul, East New Britain
  • Madang, Madang Province
  • Wewak, East Sepik Province
  • Manus Island, Manus Province

Conclusion

Kavieng has a lot to offer, from its natural attractions to its rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip to Kavieng with ease and make unforgettable memories during your stay in this picturesque town.

Mask from the Malagan people Mask from the Malagan people Wreck in Kavieng Harbor Wreck in Kavieng Harbor