Southern Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions of Southern Papua New Guinea with our comprehensive tour guide featuring the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, and travel tips.


Introduction to Southern Papua New Guinea

Located in Oceania, Southern Papua New Guinea is a stunning region that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Known for its rugged terrain, pristine beaches, and diverse flora and fauna, this region is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With the majority of the population belonging to indigenous tribes, Southern Papua New Guinea is also rich in ancient history and cultural traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Papua New Guinea

Discover the best places to visit in Southern Papua New Guinea:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Explore the cultural attractions of Southern Papua New Guinea by visiting the following museums and historical places:

  • The National Museum and Art Gallery
  • The Parliament House
  • The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway
  • Bomana War Cemetery

Natural Attractions of Southern Papua New Guinea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Southern Papua New Guinea with the following outdoor adventures and scenic views:

  • Mount Hagen
  • Tari Basin
  • Milne Bay
  • Lake Kutubu
  • Trobriand Islands

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Papua New Guinea

Southern Papua New Guinea is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The region has several trekking and cycling trails that offer breathtaking views of lush tropical forests, mountain ranges, and pristine rivers. The most popular hiking and biking trails in Southern Papua New Guinea include:

  • The Kokoda Track
  • The Black Cat Track
  • The Lakekamu Basin Trail
  • The Highlands Highway

Best Things to Do in Southern Papua New Guinea: Activities and Tours

Southern Papua New Guinea is a land of endless adventure and excitement. Here are some of the best things to do on your trip to Southern Papua New Guinea:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Off the Coral Reefs of Milne Bay
  • Bird Watching in Tari Basin
  • Exploring the Trobriand Islands
  • Visiting Remote Villages to Experience Traditional Customs and Ceremonies
  • The Canoe and Camping Safari in the Sepik River Basin

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Papua New Guinea

For those looking for a week-long itinerary for Southern Papua New Guinea, here is a suggested plan:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Port Moresby and take a City Tour
2 Take a Day Trip to Varirata National Park
3 Fly to Tari Basin and go Bird Watching
4 Trek the Kokoda Track or Visit Milne Bay
5 Visit the Trobriand Islands
6 Take the Canoe and Camping Safari in the Sepik River Basin
7 Depart from Port Moresby

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Papua New Guinea

Must-Try Dishes

The food scene in Southern Papua New Guinea is diverse and has a blend of cultures. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Mumu (a traditional steamed dish consisting of pork, chicken, and vegetables cooked in an underground oven)
  • Sago (a starchy staple made from an extract of the sago palm)
  • Lap Lap (a dish made of grated taro and sometimes mixed with chicken, beef, pork or fish with coconut cream)

Local Beverages

Southern Papua New Guinea also has some unique and refreshing drinks that are worth trying:

  • Coconut Water
  • Banana Beer or Wine
  • Kava

Where to Stay in Southern Papua New Guinea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southern Papua New Guinea has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels and resorts. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Airways Hotel Port Moresby
  • Tufi Dive Resort
  • Bird of Paradise Hotel
  • Tari Lodge

What to Buy in Southern Papua New Guinea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southern Papua New Guinea is known for its unique and exquisite handicrafts and traditional arts. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  • Bilums (traditional string bags)
  • Wood Carvings and Masks
  • Tapa Cloths
  • Cococnut Jewerly

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Papua New Guinea

Southern Papua New Guinea is home to several indigenous tribes that have preserved their ancient cultures and customs for centuries. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

  • Sing-sing (music and dance festivals)
  • Bride Price (a custom where the groom’s family pays a bride price to the bride’s family)
  • Sepik River Crocodile Ceremony (a ritual that marks the importance of crocodiles in the local culture)

Best Time to Visit Southern Papua New Guinea

The best time to visit Southern Papua New Guinea is from May to October when the weather is dry and mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Papua New Guinea

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Southern Papua New Guinea:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Wear modest clothing when visiting religious or cultural sites
  • Learn a few local words and phrases

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of locals without their permission
  • Wear flashy jewelry or expensive watches
  • Wander off the designated hiking trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Papua New Guinea

Southern Papua New Guinea is generally a safe place for tourists, but it is advised to take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Do not display valuable items or cash in public places
  • Hire a reputable local guide for hikes and tours

Health in Southern Papua New Guinea

Southern Papua New Guinea is in a malaria zone, so it’s advised to take anti-malaria medication before and during your trip.

Getting to Southern Papua New Guinea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Southern Papua New Guinea

The main international airports in Southern Papua New Guinea are located in Port Moresby and Mount Hagen.

Bus Stations Near Southern Papua New Guinea

There are no bus services that connect Southern Papua New Guinea to other regions or countries.

Other Options

The only way to enter Southern Papua New Guinea is by air or water.

How to Get Around in Southern Papua New Guinea

The best way to get around Southern Papua New Guinea is by hiring a car with a driver or booking tours with local operators.

Where to Go Next from Southern Papua New Guinea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore after your visit to Southern Papua New Guinea:

  • Rabaul
  • Kokopo
  • Madang
  • Lae
  • Goroka

Conclusion

Whether you are a nature lover, cultural enthusiast or adventure seeker, Southern Papua New Guinea has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Koki village: a village inside Port Moresby Koki village: a village inside Port Moresby Dancers at Port Moresby's annual Hiri Moale festival Dancers at Port Moresby's annual Hiri Moale festival Papua New Guinea's parliament in Port Moresby Papua New Guinea's parliament in Port Moresby