FACE TO FACE WITH PORT MORESBY

Port Moresby is the capital of Papua New Guinea and it is quite a remarkable place. On one hand, the crime took over the streets and safety issues are part of everyday life for both, locals and tourists. At the same time, there is plenty to explore from the adventurous traveller`s point of view.

Port Moresby

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCES IN PORT MORESBY

• Nature Lovers will surely appreciate the capital`s outstanding Botanical Gardens and their nature park. A large network of scenic walkways through the dense canopy which gives the visitors the chance to see the rarest plants in the world is quite a spectacle.
• The Moitaka Wildlife Farm is a snake and crocodile farm with a great display of the native Papuan fauna, offering frequent croc feeding shows.
• Crystal Rapids on the Laloki River are well-worth of stopping by at on a hot day. The cool water flow provides nice refreshment in the tropics of Port Moresby, followed by a picnic by the river.
• Relax on the laid-back Ela Beach and enjoy breakfast or lunch at one of the beach restaurants. If you happen to be in Port Moresby in the month of September you must definitely visit the famous Moale Festival (see TOP PAPUAN FESTIVALS)
• See the historical sights of Port Moresby in Waigani suburbs. The Parliament House is Port Moresby`s iconic symbols. The Bomana War Cemetery and the National Museum along with the Art Gallery are also very interesting sites to explore. Remember to have a stroll around the City Harbour to feel its particular atmosphere.
• The coastal outskirts of Port Moresby reflect the original native way of life of Motu people with the traditional houses built on stilts over the water. Hanuabada Village is well-recommended.

Traditional Motu village, Port Moresby

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WHAT TO DO AROUND PORT MORESBY

• One of the best spots around the capital is the LOLOATA ISLAND, famous for being a habitat to the rare Tree Kangaroo. It has got pretty resorts and it is a pleasant spot to spend a few days. Canoeing, diving, fishing or just sunbathing on one of the gorgeous beaches of the island will not leave one disappointed.
• KOKODA TRAIL is another point of interest around Port Moresby. This nearly 100 km long trail leads through the bloody battlefields, following the traces of the II World War. It is a very popular route full of history that takes 6-10 days to complete and can be easily arranged as an organised expedition. Be advised that even though the trek is moderate, the climate can have a big impact on one`s body. Spending 10 days in extreme humidity, frequent torrential rainfall and intensely cold nights, plus the high risk of malaria in this area requires proper preparation for this trip.

Hanging Bridge, Kokoda Track

NOTE

Port Moresby is one of the most dangerous cities in the world and going out after dark without a local company is not recommended.

It is always advisable to inquire about the safety situation in Papua New Guinea or in any location you intend to visit due to the presence of criminal gangs. There are tribal conflicts which you should avoid as much as possible when travelling.

Malaria pills and vaccination against the Yellow Fever is strongly recommended and some countries such as Australia even request all visitors get immunised prior the entry to PNG. That means that If you visited Papua and travelling to Australia you must have had the adequate vaccination otherwise you will not be allowed to enter the country.

TRAVEL TIPS

Before touring the outskirts of Port Moresby always ask for some advice at your hotel or guesthouse since some of them are still no-go areas for strangers.

Wherever you go in Port Moresby dress down to avoid unnecessary situations.

The nightlife in Port Moresby is relatively limited due to the high risk of violence in the city. Therefore it is not advised to take leisure walks after dark, especially outside of the town.

Moale Festival

WHEN TO GO

Generally, the most pleasant time of the year to visit Port Moresby is during the dry months which are between May and October and most festivals take place within this period and there are the best conditions for scuba diving, bird watching and trekking.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are two Australian airlines that fly into Port Moresby – Virgin Australia and Qantas.

You can get affordable flights but there will be two or three stopovers: London-Singapore-Brisbane-Papua New Guinea.

For all international flights go to www.skyscanner.com or www.momondo.com