Central Province, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Explore Central Province in Papua New Guinea: A blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic significance awaiting your discovery.

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Central Province

Welcome to Central Province, the vibrant heart of Papua New Guinea. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming people. Central Province is a mosaic of lush rainforests, serene beaches, and awe-inspiring mountains, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Explore the bustling capital city of Port Moresby, where modernity meets tradition. Visit the Port Moresby Nature Park to see an array of native wildlife, or immerse yourself in local history at the National Museum and Art Gallery. Don't miss the famous Ela Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Venture beyond the city to discover the true essence of Central Province. The Sogeri Plateau offers breathtaking views and a chance to walk the historical Kokoda Track, a site of great significance from World War II. Enjoy the tranquility of Hombrom Bluff or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Rouna Falls. Central Province is also a cultural treasure trove. Experience the vibrant traditions of the local tribes through their art, dance, and music. Join a guided tour to visit the villages and engage with the locals, who are always eager to share their customs and stories with visitors.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Central Province.

Visit during the dry season from May to October for the best weather and easier travel conditions.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to walk the Kokoda Track or explore the Sogeri Plateau.
Engage a local guide to enrich your experience and ensure safety, especially when visiting remote areas.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting villages; always ask for permission before taking photos.
Carry insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical climate.

Top City Travel Guides in Central Province

The cities of Central Province, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Port Moresby

Destinations in Central Province

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Kokoda Track

Explore Central Province: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Mosque Hohola

Explore Mosque Hohola in Port Moresby for a peaceful cultural experience amidst stunning Islamic architecture and vibrant community life.

4.6

March Girls Resort

Discover the serene beauty of March Girls Resort, a stunning public beach in Central Province offering relaxation, adventure, and local culture.

3.6

Owers' Corner

Explore Owers' Corner, a historical gem in Central Province, revealing the rich legacy of World War II amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.6

McAdam National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of McAdam National Park in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea, a must-visit for nature lovers.

3.6

Best landmarks in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

New Guinea

Explore the untouched beauty and vibrant cultures of New Guinea, an island paradise offering adventure, biodiversity, and rich traditions.

4.1

Port Moresby Nature Park

Discover the mesmerizing flora and fauna at Port Moresby Nature Park, a top tourist attraction blending a botanical garden, zoo, and recreation center.

4.3

West Papua

Experience the stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultures of West Papua, Indonesia, a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

4.2

Sir John Guise Stadium

Discover the heart of Papua New Guinea's sports culture at Sir John Guise Stadium, a vibrant venue for thrilling events and cultural celebrations in Port Moresby.

3.9

Best restaurants in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Dynasty Seafood Restaurant in Port Moresby’s Vision City Mega Mall – where freshness meets flavor.

3.9

Alibi Bar & Grill

Experience culinary delights at Alibi Bar & Grill in Port Moresby – where local flavors meet international flair in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Edge Cafe Port Moresby

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Edge Cafe Port Moresby - where delightful brunch meets friendly ambiance.

4.2

Asia Aromas Harbour Side West PNG

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Asia Aromas Harbour Side West in Lae—where every meal is a journey through Asian flavors.

4.0

Best bars in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming

Discover the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine at Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming in Port Moresby, a hub for food lovers and entertainment seekers.

4.1

Alibi Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Alibi Bar & Grill in Port Moresby, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Luluai

Savor the best of local and international cuisine at Luluai, Port Moresby's culinary hotspot for tourists seeking unforgettable flavors.

4.2

Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar

Experience exquisite dining and stunning views at Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar, a culinary jewel in Port Moresby.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

The Cosmopolitan (PNG)

Discover the energetic nightlife at The Cosmopolitan in Port Moresby, featuring dance floors, gaming lounges, and a lively atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

3.9

The Gold Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Port Moresby at The Gold Club, where music and dance come alive in an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.9

AKAKA - Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at AKAKA - Bar & Grill in the heart of Pari, the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

4.5

Club Illusion PNG

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Port Moresby at Club Illusion PNG, where unforgettable evenings await in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.3

Best shops in Central Province

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Vision City Mega Mall

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Vision City Mega Mall in Port Moresby, where local culture meets international shopping.

4.0

Stop and Shop Waigani Central

Explore the local flavors and international products at Stop and Shop Waigani Central, a must-visit grocery store in Port Moresby.

4.0

Stop N Shop Harbour City

Discover local culture and shopping at Stop N Shop Harbour City, the premier shopping destination in Port Moresby.

3.9

JMart Supermarket Erima

Experience the vibrant shopping scene at JMart Supermarket Erima, your gateway to local flavors and products in Port Moresby.

3.7

Explore Central Province on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Central Province, mapped for you.

Central Province Essentials

Central Province is accessible primarily through Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea, which is located within the province. Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby is the main entry point for international travelers. From the airport, you can take domestic flights to other areas within the Central Province. Alternatively, you can travel by road using public transport or hire a car to explore the province.
Transportation within Central Province includes a mix of public buses, minibuses (PMVs), and taxis. PMVs are the most common and affordable means of transport, but they can be crowded and less reliable. Taxis are available in larger towns and cities, but it is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace, but be aware that road conditions can vary.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Port Moresby, but it is advisable to carry cash for transactions in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns and cities, but they may not be as prevalent in remote areas, so it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash in advance.
While Central Province is generally safe for tourists, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas. Some neighborhoods in Port Moresby, such as Hohola and Gordons, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for police assistance. For medical emergencies, dial 112. Port Moresby General Hospital is the main medical facility in the province. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering a home and be respectful during religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be patient and courteous on public transport. Don't take photos of people without their permission. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Central Province like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss exploring the beautiful beaches and coastal areas, such as Hula and Gaba Gaba, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. For a unique experience, attend a traditional sing-sing (cultural dance) to witness the vibrant local culture.

When is the best time to visit Central Province?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Central Province

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Central Province. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloOlokai
  [Oh-lo-kai]
- GoodbyeBai
  [Bye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [Pleas]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [Ten-kyu]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [So-ree]
- How are you?Yu orait?
  [You oh-right?]
- Fine. And you?Orait. Na yu?
  [Oh-right. Nah you?]
- Do you speak English?Yu toktok long English?
  [You talk-talk long English?]
- I don't understandMi no save
  [Me no sah-veh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [Me like look-im menu, pleas]
- I don't eat meatMi no kaikai mit
  [Me no kai-kai mit]
- Cheers!Kaim
  [Kime]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik pai, plis
  [Me like pie, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go awai!
  [Go ah-why!]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polisi!
  [Call-im Po-lee-si!]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [Call-im dock-ta!]
- I'm lostMi lus
  [Me loose]
- I'm illMi sik
  [Me seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi laik buy...
  [Me like buy...]
- I'm just lookingMi soim lukim
  [Me so-im look-im]
- How much is it?Em kost olsem wanem?
  [Em cost ol-sim wah-nen?]
- That's too expensiveDat i tumas
  [Dat ee too-mas]
- Can you lower the price?Yu inap likim prais?
  [You ee-nap leek-im price?]
- What time is it?Wanem taim?
  [Wah-nem time?]
- It's one o'clockI gat wan o'clock
  [Ee gat wan o-clock]
- Half past (10)Harf pas (10)
  [Harf pas (ten)]
- MorningMornin
  [Morn-ing]
- AfternoonAftanun
  [Af-ta-noon]
- EveningIvening
  [Eve-ning]
- YesterdayYestide
  [Yes-ti-day]
- TodayTude
  [Too-day]
- TomorrowTumoro
  [Too-morrow]
- 1Wan
  [Wan]
- 2Tu
  [Too]
- 3Tri
  [Tree]
- 4For
  [Four]
- 5Faiv
  [Five]
- 6Siks
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eit
  [Eight]
- 9Nain
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Wea em...?
  [Where em...?]
- What's the address?Wanem adires?
  [Wah-nem ah-drees?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [You ee-nap show-im me (long map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When em nekst (bus)?
  [When em next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (go....)
  [One ticket (go....)]

History of Central Province

Central Province, Papua New Guinea, was first settled by Austronesian-speaking peoples around 3,000 years ago. These early inhabitants brought with them advanced navigation skills and agricultural practices, establishing small, self-sufficient communities that relied on fishing, gardening, and trade.
One of the most significant historical events in Central Province is the Hiri trade expeditions. These annual voyages saw the Motu people build large, sea-worthy canoes called 'lakatoi' to trade clay pots and other goods with the people of the Gulf Province. The Hiri expeditions were not just trading ventures but also crucial cultural exchanges that strengthened ties between different coastal communities.
European contact began in the 19th century, with Portuguese and British explorers mapping the coastline. By the late 1800s, missionaries arrived, aiming to spread Christianity and Western education. The London Missionary Society was particularly influential, establishing schools and churches, which led to significant cultural and social changes in Central Province.
World War II had a profound impact on Central Province. The region became a strategic base for the Allied forces during the Pacific Campaign. The most notable event was the Battle of Milne Bay in 1942, where Australian and American forces successfully repelled a Japanese invasion. This victory was a turning point in the Pacific War and left a lasting mark on the local population, who played a crucial role in supporting the Allied efforts.
Following Papua New Guinea's independence from Australia in 1975, Central Province has experienced significant political and economic changes. The province has focused on improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Additionally, there has been a concerted effort to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities, ensuring that traditions such as the Hiri trade and traditional dances continue to thrive.
Today, Central Province is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Hiri Moale Festival, which celebrates the historical significance of the Hiri trade. These festivals showcase traditional dances, music, and crafts, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The province continues to balance modern development with the preservation of its unique cultural identity.