9 Best Holiday Destinations in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea Holiday Destinations

Introduction

Papua New Guinea is a country that's often overlooked when it comes to holiday destinations, but it has so much to offer! For those looking for a different kind of adventure or wanting to experience some truly unique cultures, Papua New Guinea should be near the top of your list of places to visit. Even if you don't have time for an extended trip, there are plenty of day trips from Port Moresby that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is a country in Oceania, located on the island of New Guinea. With a population of over 8 million people, Papua New Guinea is the most populous country in Oceania and ranks sixth globally amongst countries with indigenous populations. The capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea is Port Moresby, which has over 300,000 people living there.

Papua New Guinea has been occupied by humans for at least 40 thousand years ago and was part of Australia until it separated around 10 million years ago due to tectonic activity and rising seas; however this separation did not occur as early as previously thought--around 30 million years ago instead. The first European to reach Papua New Guinea was Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós who sighted several islands during an expedition from Macau in 1606 but never landed on any of them.

1. Kokoda Track

The Kokoda Track is a challenging hike that crosses the Owen Stanley Range. It is part of the New Guinea Islands, which are located in Oceania. The Kokoda Track was first established by Australian soldiers during World War II to help Australians fight against Japanese troops who were living in Papua New Guinea at that time. Today, the track is a popular destination for hikers, runners and walkers alike.

The track connects Port Moresby with Kokoda—an important battle site during World War II. It follows much of what used to be an old military supply route from Port Moresby to Buna and Gona Beach where there was heavy fighting between Australian forces and Japanese troops before Allied forces finally took control over these areas back then (during World War II). The route passes through rainforested mountainside while also providing views over wide valleys below its highest points along its length."

2. Mount Hagen

The city of Mount Hagen is located in the Western Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea and is also referred to as ‘The City of Peace’. It is home to around 50,000 people, many of whom are farmers who grow coffee cherries that are later exported overseas for roasting and brewing purposes. Mount Hagen sits at an altitude of 1520 m which makes it one of the highest cities in the world!

Mount Hagen’s name comes from its prominent mountain peak – Mount Duvauchelle – which stands at 2155m above sea level. The city itself was founded by a German explorer named Ludwig Salvator von Koch in 1875 as he searched for gold deposits in this remote region but found none! However, he did kick-start trade relations between Germany and PNG which continue till this day with major exports including coffee beans being sent there via the port city of Lae every year (over 50 million kg!). One interesting fact about this city though is that while it may have been established by Germans originally; today no citizens speak their language anymore since they have all assimilated into Pidgin-English instead!

3. Rabaul and the East New Britain Province

Rabaul is one of the main tourist attractions in Papua New Guinea and is located on the island of New Britain. It is home to several volcanoes and has been known as a gateway to other provinces in Papua New Guinea since it was discovered by British explorer James Cook in 1784.

The most visited sites include Mount Tavurvur, which erupted in 2014 after a dormant period of over 60 years; Rabaul Volcano Observatory (RVO), which offers guided tours through its museum all year round; Kokopo War Cemetery, where you can learn more about Allied forces during World War II; Kapor River Lighthouse Park, where you can climb up one of two lighthouses for panoramic views over Rabaul's harbor; various World War II ruins including Japanese bunkers which are now popular tourist attractions; as well as traditional dances performed by locals such as performing arts group Moi Moi Brothers who are known for their elaborate face masks made from barkcloth and wood-carvings.

4. Mt Wilhelm and the Central Ranges

In PNG, Mount Wilhelm is the highest mountain and one of the most popular hiking destinations. The Central Ranges are also home to many different tribes and cultural experiences, including trekking tours in some areas like Mount Hagen, Goroka and Mt Wilhelm. The best time to visit is between November and May – these months tend to be cooler with less rain but this may mean that some trails are closed at certain times due to flooding.

The Highlands is a diverse region in Papua New Guinea that has been home to many different tribes. It’s an amazing place for trekking and hiking, with some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

5. Madang

Madang is the largest town in Madang Province, with a population of around 45,000 residents. The town is located on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea's mainland, facing the Bismarck Sea. It is known as the "Prego" by locals and is nestled among the Finisterre and Adelbert Ranges.

Madang offers many things to do for travelers such as exploring its many islands or boating along its coastline.

The town is also the gateway to Papua New Guinea’s many natural attractions. It is located just a few hours from some of the world’s most renowned treks, such as the Kokoda Track and Sepik River Adventure.

6. Goroka and the Eastern Highlands Province

The town of Goroka is located at the foot of Mt. Daulo, which has been called "the Switzerland of PNG" due to its spectacular scenery. If you like nature, culture and adventure, the Eastern Highlands Province is a great place to visit.

Goroka is known for its many festivals including the annual Goroka Show. Tourists flock in from all over the world to see the famous Asaro Mudmen performances, and other exciting cultural groups perform. To make  the most of their visit enjoyable, visitors should take part in a sing-sing in order to experience the local culture. Sing-sings are important cultural events that include singing traditional songs as well as dancing with bamboo poles (called seis) while wearing elaborate masks and costumes that represent various spirits or ancestors.

Visitors should also be sure to visit a village in order to learn more about the local people who live there. There are many places where visitors can go hiking - some of the best places include: the Daulo Pass; Mount Trafalgar; Mount Wilhelm (also known as "The Big Hole"); Mount Hagen and others! It's important always carry plenty water with you while hiking so your body stays hydrated throughout your journey! Before going on any hikes make sure you buy supplies such as food from supermarkets nearby or other stores selling goods/services near by such as supermarkets/convenience stores etc...

7. Lae, Morobe Province

Lae, the capital of Morobe province and second-largest city in Papua New Guinea, is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Lae was the site of an important Allied Airfield during World War II and has many historic sites, including a war museum that displays relics from that era. The city has many interesting museums, including one dedicated to natural history where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. The oceanfront area around Lae is also home to some beautiful beaches with white sand and blue waters. Many people flock here to enjoy swimming or sunbathing on these shores; others rent boats so they can go fishing together with friends or family members each day while they're vacationing in this region of Papua New Guinea!

8. Kavieng, New Ireland Province

Kavieng is the capital of New Ireland Province. It is a town on the north coast of New Ireland Island, in Papua New Guinea. The port town was founded by German colonial authorities in 1905 and became a center for trade with Europe and Australia. It was bombed by United States Navy aircraft during World War II, destroying much of downtown Kavieng but sparing many historic buildings in other parts of town.

The Battle of Bilibid Prison took place at Bilibid prison in Muntinlupa City from January 23–30, 1945 as a part of Manila campaign during World War II between the combined forces from United States Sixth Army under Major General Walter Krueger against Imperial Japanese Army units under Lieutenant General Masaharu Homma who defended Manila against Allied Forces led by General Douglas MacArthur during Allied Liberation Campaign (1944-1945).

9. Mendi, Southern Highlands Province

Mendi is a town in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea. It is located at the foot of Mt. Giluwe, Papua New Guineas second highest mountain soaring at more than 3000 meters above sea level, and is known for its historic importance due to its proximity to Mount Hagen and the Highlands Highway, one of PNG's most important roads. Mendi plays host to ethnic groups from all over Papua New Guinea and you'll find yourself surrounded by their distinct culture when visiting this town. The area is also an important breeding ground for flying foxes (fruit bats), which you can observe at dusk as they feed on guava fruit on nearby trees.

Settlements in the region include: Mendi, Ialibu and the beautiful but mystical lake Kutubu  home to Papua New Guinea's biggest oil project site. By plane: Flights land at Mendi Airport (MDN) or Mt. Hagen Airport (HGN) and then hop on a 2 hours bus ride into Mendi. By road: There are bus services along the Highlands Highway between Port Moresby and Lae (via Mount Hagen). Buses depart from Mt. Hagen every day; it takes around 2 hours travel time along a stretch prone to breakdowns but with stunning views nonetheless! You can also take a flight from Port Moresby or Lae directly into Mt. Hagen airport -- just make sure your visa has been secured in advance because you will need it before hand if your passport doesn't have one already.

There are many outstanding places to visit in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea is a large country, with many different regions. You will find everything you could want in Papua New Guinea: beaches, mountains, rainforest and more. There are many different places to visit in Papua New Guinea that are sure to please any traveler.

The first place on your list should be Kokoda Track, located north of Port Moresby near the border with Australia. This site commemorates World War II soldiers who fought here during their campaign against Japanese troops invading from across the sea. It features a museum and memorials honoring these brave men who gave their lives for freedom from oppression. If you're looking for something more relaxing after touring this war memorial then head south towards Madang town where there is plenty more to see including markets selling local crafts such as woodcarvings or paintings made by local artists using natural dyes found exclusively within PNG's jungles!

Conclusion

Papua New Guinea is an amazing country that’s so different from the rest of the world. If you’re looking for a unique vacation destination, then look no further than Papua New Guinea. You won’t regret it!