Buka: The Gateway to Bougainville's Hidden Treasures

Discover the unspoiled beauty and rich cultural heritage of Buka, the gateway to Bougainville in Papua New Guinea, where adventure and tradition meet.

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Buka, the charming capital of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea, is a city that offers an authentic and unspoiled experience for travelers. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Buka is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, lush green landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage that is sure to captivate any visitor. The city itself is a haven for those looking to explore the traditional way of life of the Bougainvillean people. As you wander through Buka, you'll encounter friendly locals, vibrant markets, and traditional wooden houses. The Buka Passage, a narrow strait separating Buka Island from the main island of Bougainville, is a breathtaking sight, especially during sunrise and sunset. For adventure seekers, Buka offers numerous activities such as snorkeling, diving, and trekking. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. On land, the dense forests and rugged terrain provide excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Make sure to visit the WWII relics scattered around the island, as they offer a poignant reminder of the region's historical significance. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the traditional dances, music, and crafts that are integral to Bougainvillean life. Participating in local festivals and ceremonies can give you a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions that have been preserved for generations. Buka is not just a destination; it is an experience that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Local tips in Buka

Carry cash, as ATMs and card payment facilities can be scarce.
Respect local customs and ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
Hire a local guide for trekking and exploring the more remote areas.
Visit local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handicrafts.
Be prepared for limited internet connectivity and embrace the digital detox.

File:Buka Buka Island Pulau Buka Buka Sulawesi Tengah.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:MtBalbiToreNASA.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Starr 060406-7085 Bougainvillea spectabilis.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Halong Bay, view from Titop Island (6225961712).jpg - Wikipedia

File:Kuala Lumpur (4447684105).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Buka?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Stanley Hotel & Suites

Discover luxury and comfort at The Stanley Hotel & Suites in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea's premier destination for travelers seeking elegance and local culture.

New Guinea

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of New Guinea, an island paradise perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.

Lamana Hotel (Port Moresby)

Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and rich Papua New Guinean culture at Lamana Hotel, your gateway to Port Moresby.

Port Moresby Nature Park

Explore the lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and cultural richness of Port Moresby Nature Park, a must-visit destination in Papua New Guinea.

Jacksons International Airport

Jacksons International Airport is your essential entry point to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Papua New Guinea.

Puncak Jaya

Explore the breathtaking heights of Puncak Jaya, Indonesia's highest peak, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Papua.

West Papua

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultures of West Papua, an Indonesian island paradise filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Royal Papua Yacht Club

Experience the maritime allure of the Royal Papua Yacht Club in Port Moresby, where relaxation meets adventure in a stunning harbor setting.

Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort

Discover the tropical charm of Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, where comfort meets adventure in stunning Papua New Guinea.

Bougainville Island

Explore Bougainville Island: A hidden paradise of lush landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant marine life in the Pacific.

DHL Express Service Point

Discover reliable and efficient courier services at the DHL Express Service Point in Port Moresby, your trusted partner for logistics solutions.

Papua New Guinea National Museum and Art Gallery

Experience the richness of Papua New Guinea's culture and history at the National Museum and Art Gallery in Port Moresby, a must-see for every traveler.

Adventure Park PNG

Experience unforgettable thrills and family fun at Adventure Park PNG, a premier theme park in the heart of Central Province, Papua New Guinea.

Manus Island

Explore Manus Island, a hidden paradise in the heart of Papua New Guinea, known for its stunning landscapes and rich local culture.

Lihir Island

Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Lihir Island, a tropical paradise in Papua New Guinea's New Ireland Province.

Unmissable attractions to see

Buka Island

Experience the untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage of Buka Island, a hidden gem in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

JK McCarthy Museum

Explore the fascinating history and culture of Papua New Guinea at the JK McCarthy Museum in Goroka, where tradition meets modernity.

White Island

Explore the breathtaking beauty of White Island, a tropical paradise in the Solomon Sea, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Bel Isi Park

Experience the serene beauty of Bel Isi Park in Buka, a peaceful retreat in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, perfect for nature lovers.

Vunela Martyrs Historical Site & WWII Japanese Tunnels

Explore the Vunela Martyrs Historical Site and WWII Japanese Tunnels, a significant landmark of Rabaul's wartime history in Papua New Guinea.

The Bannoni Experience

Experience the rich culture and stunning landscapes at The Bannoni Experience in Buka, a captivating tourist attraction in Papua New Guinea.

Pasinau Viewpoint

Discover the natural beauty and stunning views at Pasinau Viewpoint in Bougainville, an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.

Essential places to dine

Daikoku Japanese Steak House

Savor authentic Japanese flavors at Daikoku Japanese Steak House in Port Moresby - where culinary artistry meets vibrant dining.

Fu Gui

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Fu Gui in Port Moresby—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Edge Cafe Port Moresby

Experience the vibrant brunch culture at Edge Cafe Port Moresby, where delicious meals meet friendly service in an inviting atmosphere.

Alibi Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Papua New Guinea at Alibi Bar & Grill in Port Moresby – where local ingredients meet international cuisine.

Savannah Bistro

Experience the vibrant flavors of Papua New Guinea at Savannah Bistro - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.

Asia Aromas Harbour Side West PNG

Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Asia Aromas Harbour Side West PNG - where culinary tradition meets stunning harbor views.

Ang's Restaurant

Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Ang's Restaurant in Port Moresby - where every dish tells a story.

Fusion Bistro

Experience the vibrant fusion of local flavors at Fusion Bistro in Port Moresby - where culinary artistry meets cultural heritage.

Tandoor on the Harbour

Discover authentic Indian flavors at Tandoor on the Harbour in Port Moresby - where culinary excellence meets stunning waterfront views.

Golden Bowl Restaurant

Discover the rich flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine at Golden Bowl Restaurant in Port Moresby - a must-visit culinary gem.

Luluai

Experience the vibrant flavors of Papua New Guinea at Luluai in Port Moresby—where tradition meets taste.

Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar

Experience exquisite dining at Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar in Port Moresby - where local flavors meet global cuisine.

Seoul House Restaurant

Experience authentic Korean cuisine at Seoul House Restaurant in Port Moresby - A must-visit destination for food lovers!

Mumu Restaurant

Experience authentic Papua New Guinean cuisine at Mumu Restaurant in Port Moresby, where tradition meets flavor.

Tasty Bite Indian Restaurant

Discover the rich flavors of India at Tasty Bite Indian Restaurant in Port Moresby – where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Vision City Mega Mall

Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Vision City Mega Mall, the largest mall in Papua New Guinea, offering a taste of local culture and modern amenities.

Stop and Shop Waigani Central

Explore Waigani Central in Port Moresby for a diverse selection of local and international groceries, fresh produce, and a vibrant shopping experience.

Stop N Shop

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Stop N Shop in Port Moresby, where local culture and convenience meet.

Jack's of PNG

Explore the vibrant world of Pacific fashion at Jack's of PNG, where tradition meets contemporary style in Port Moresby.

Mosin Plaza

Explore Mosin Plaza in Port Moresby for a delightful shopping experience filled with local products and vibrant culture.

Tango Department Store Boroko

Explore unique home goods and local products at Tango Department Store Boroko in Port Moresby for an authentic shopping experience.

Unity Mall & Supermarket

Explore Unity Mall & Supermarket in Port Moresby for local crafts, unique PNG fashion, and a vibrant shopping atmosphere that captures island culture.

Jomik Trading

Explore the best of Buka's local offerings at Jomik Trading, your one-stop supermarket for fresh produce and regional delicacies.

West Winds Trading

Explore Buka's best supermarket, West Winds Trading, offering a wide range of local and international products for every traveler’s need.

Maku Gifts

Explore the rich culture of Papua New Guinea through unique home goods and local handicrafts at Maku Gifts in Kokopo.

MKS BOUTIQUE

Explore MKS Boutique in Port Moresby for trendy fashion accessories that reflect your unique style and enhance your wardrobe.

Buai Market

Discover the heart of Bougainville at Buai Market, where vibrant culture and local flavors come together in a unique shopping experience.

Nevsky Trading

Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Nevsky Trading in Kubu, Buka Island, with a variety of local goods and essentials.

JBN Trading

Explore authentic local products and flavors at JBN Trading in Buka, Bougainville, your gateway to the culinary heart of Papua New Guinea.

Kaskurus Market

Experience the vibrant culture and local flavors at Kaskurus Market in Bougainville, where tradition meets community spirit in a lively shopping atmosphere.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Holiday Inn & Suites Port Moresby PNG

Discover comfort and luxury at Holiday Inn & Suites Port Moresby, your gateway to the vibrant culture of Papua New Guinea.

Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming

Discover the vibrant blend of dining, drinks, and gaming at Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming in Port Moresby, a must-visit for every traveler.

The Cosmopolitan (PNG)

Experience the vibrant nightlife and eclectic atmosphere at The Cosmopolitan in Port Moresby, a must-visit club for tourists.

Bacchus Restaurant

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey at Bacchus Restaurant in Port Moresby, where local flavors meet international cuisine.

Buka Airport AYBK

Experience the charm of Buka Airport, your gateway to the lush beauty and vibrant culture of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea.

Reasons Bar & Grill Accomodations

Discover the vibrant flavors of Buka Town at Reasons Bar & Grill, where exceptional meals and warm hospitality await every visitor.

Buka Island

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Buka Island in Bougainville, a tropical paradise waiting to be explored.

KUNDU CLUB

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kundu Club in Port Moresby, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

Akura Dining & Lounge Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite drinks at Akura Dining & Lounge Bar in Port Moresby, a perfect retreat for tourists.

Kuri Village Resort

Experience the authentic flavors of Buka Island at Kuri Village Resort, a culinary haven showcasing local delicacies and breathtaking views.

Kulkul Beachfront Club

Discover Kulkul Beachfront Club in Buka: A perfect blend of local flavors and stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.

Gecko Bar, Holiday Inn

Discover Gecko Bar in Port Moresby: A cozy retreat for tasty bites and refreshing drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

BlackOut Night Club

Discover Port Moresby's vibrant nightlife at BlackOut Night Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

Beachside Bar

Experience the vibrant tropical atmosphere and stunning views at the Beachside Bar in Port Moresby, a perfect retreat for relaxation and enjoyment.

ARoB Pizza Inn

Experience the best pizza in Kubu at ARoB Pizza Inn, where fresh ingredients meet local flavors in a warm community atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Buka

Discover Buka with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloKam na
  [kam na]
- GoodbyeLukim yu
  [lookim yu]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNogat
  [nogat]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plis]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [tenkyu]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sori]
- How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yu stap goot]
- Fine. And you?Mi stap gut. Yu?
  [mi stap goot. yu]
- Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long English?
  [yu save toktok long english]
- I don't understandMi nogat save
  [mi nogat save]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mi laik lookim menu, plis]
- I don't eat meatMi nogat kaikai mit
  [mi nogat kaikai mit]
- Cheers!Nogat
  [nogat]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik bayim, plis
  [mi laik bayim, plis]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go we!
  [go we]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [kolim polis]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [kolim dokta]
- I'm lostMi lusim
  [mi lusim]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mi sik]
- I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mi laik baim]
- I'm just lookingMi jas lukim
  [mi jas lookim]
- How much is it?Em i stap long moni?
  [em i stap long moni]
- That's too expensiveEm i longpela moni
  [em i longpela moni]
- Can you lower the price?Yu inap kisim daun pris?
  [yu inap kisim daun pris]
- What time is it?Em i hap long taim?
  [em i hap long taim]
- It's one o'clockEm i wan taim
  [em i wan taim]
- Half past (10)Hap pasten
  [hap pasten]
- MorningMonin
  [monin]
- AfternoonApinun
  [apinun]
- EveningEvenin
  [evenin]
- YesterdayDesde
  [desde]
- TodayTude
  [tude]
- TomorrowTomoro
  [tomoro]
- 1Wan
  [wan]
- 2Tu
  [tu]
- 3Tri
  [tri]
- 4Fo
  [fo]
- 5Faiv
  [faiv]
- 6Sikis
  [sikis]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eit
  [eit]
- 9Nain
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Em i stap we?
  [em i stap we]
- What's the address?Em i stap long adres?
  [em i stap long adres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [yu inap soim mi (long map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nogat
  [nogat]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wan tiket (long ....)]

History of Buka

Before European contact, Buka Island was inhabited by the indigenous Bougainville people, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices. The island's communities were organized into clans, each with their own customs, languages, and social structures.
In the 1760s, the first recorded European contact with Buka Island was made by French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville. This encounter marked the beginning of European interest in the region, although significant settlement did not occur until much later.
Buka, along with the rest of the Bougainville region, became part of German New Guinea in the late 19th century. The German colonial administration introduced plantations and infrastructure, although they faced resistance from the local population.
During World War II, Buka Island was strategically important and was occupied by Japanese forces in 1942. The island later became a battleground as Allied forces sought to reclaim it, resulting in significant military activity and civilian impact. Buka served as an important airstrip and base during the war.
After World War II, Buka became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of New Guinea, administered by Australia. During this period, efforts were made to develop infrastructure and improve local governance, paving the way for eventual independence.
The late 20th century saw Buka heavily impacted by the Bougainville Civil War (1988-1998). The conflict between the Bougainville Revolutionary Army and Papua New Guinea's government forces led to significant strife and displacement of local populations. Buka served as a haven for displaced people and played a crucial role in peace negotiations.
In 2005, following the peace agreement, the Autonomous Bougainville Government was established. Buka was chosen as the interim administrative capital. This period marked significant progress in self-governance and reconstruction, with a focus on rebuilding and fostering peace.
In recent years, there has been a strong movement towards cultural revival and preservation on Buka Island. Efforts to document and celebrate traditional practices, languages, and art forms are ongoing, ensuring that the rich heritage of the Bougainville people continues to thrive.

Buka Essentials

Buka is located in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea. The main access point is Buka Airport (BUA), which has regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, and other regional airports. Alternatively, you can reach Buka by sea via ferries and cargo ships from Rabaul or other ports in the region. Be sure to check the current schedules and book your transport in advance.
Buka is a small island, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local taxis and private car hires are available. Public minibuses, known as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles), are a common and affordable way to get around. Keep in mind that road conditions can be rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While some hotels and larger businesses in Buka may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas.
Buka is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas. Certain neighborhoods may have higher crime rates; it is advisable to inquire locally about safe areas to visit.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Buka. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering religious or sacred sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight nod is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Buka like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the chance to explore nearby islands and beaches, which offer stunning landscapes and opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Participate in a traditional sing-sing (dance) if you get the chance, as it offers a unique insight into the local culture.

Buka: The Gateway to Bougainville's Hidden Treasures

Local tips in Buka