Goroka, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Discover Goroka: A cultural gem in Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands, known for its annual festival, stunning landscapes, and rich heritage.

Goroka is a vibrant town nestled in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Goroka offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. The town is famous for the Goroka Show, an annual event that showcases the diverse cultures of the region. Visitors are treated to a spectacular display of traditional dances, songs, and costumes from over 100 tribes. Beyond the festival, Goroka is a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Papua New Guinea. The surrounding highlands are covered in lush greenery, dotted with coffee plantations, and crossed by crystal-clear rivers. Adventurous travelers can explore the rugged terrain, visit local villages, and learn about the traditional lifestyles of the indigenous people. Goroka is also home to several educational and cultural institutions. The J.K. McCarthy Museum offers insights into the history and culture of the highlands, while the Raun Raun Theatre provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. The town's markets are bustling with activity, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Goroka's friendly locals and unique atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Papua New Guinea.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit in September to experience the Goroka Show, a vibrant festival celebrating local culture.
Explore the J.K. McCarthy Museum to learn about the history and traditions of the highlands.
Don't miss the local markets for fresh produce and unique handmade crafts.
Take a guided tour to nearby villages to experience traditional highland life.
Stay hydrated and prepared for changing weather conditions in the highlands.

Explore Goroka: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Goroka

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Goroka Main Market

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Papua New Guinea at Goroka Main Market, a lively hub of local commerce and flavors.

3.3

Rotary Park

Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Rotary Park, a serene escape in Goroka's vibrant landscape.

3.4

Iku Kolanota Site Scene and Nature Park Ltd

Experience the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Iku Kolanota Site Scene and Nature Park in Goroka, a must-visit natural wonder in Papua New Guinea.

5.0

National Day Park

Explore National Day Park in Goroka: a tranquil haven of natural beauty and cultural richness in Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands.

4.0

Best landmarks in Goroka

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ANZ Goroka Corporate Centre

Explore Goroka's cultural richness at the ANZ Goroka Corporate Centre, a modern hub in the heart of Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands.

3.9

Pacific Gardens Hotel

Experience the tranquility and rich culture of Goroka at Pacific Gardens Hotel, your perfect retreat in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea.

3.9

Goroka steak house

Discover the best steak in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, at Goroka Steak House - where flavor and hospitality meet in a delightful dining experience.

3.7

Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments

Discover the charm of Goroka at the Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments, your gateway to the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea.

3.7

Best restaurants in Goroka

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Pacific Gardens Hotel

Experience serene comfort and authentic local culture at Pacific Gardens Hotel in Goroka's breathtaking landscapes.

3.9

Goroka steak house

Discover delectable steaks and local flavors at Goroka Steak House in Papua New Guinea's stunning Eastern Highlands.

3.7

Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments

Discover comfort and culture at Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments in Goroka – your perfect retreat in Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands.

3.7

GK Lodge

Experience comfort amidst nature at GK Lodge in Goroka, where local culture meets stunning landscapes for an unforgettable stay.

3.5

Best bars in Goroka

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Goroka steak house

Discover Goroka Steak House, a top dining spot in Papua New Guinea, where premium steaks meet warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.

3.7

Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments

Discover the charm of Goroka at the Bird of Paradise Hotel & Apartments, your perfect retreat in Eastern Highlands, Papua New Guinea.

3.7

Gold Bell Cafe

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Gold Bell Cafe, where local flavors and warm hospitality meet in Goroka's scenic Eastern Highlands.

4.1

UNIGOR RESTAURANT

Discover the rich flavors of Papua New Guinea at Unigor Restaurant, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Goroka

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Goroka Lodge

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Goroka Lodge, a premier dance club in Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands, featuring live performances and an electrifying atmosphere.

3.8

Goroka Yot Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Goroka Yot Club in the Eastern Highlands, where live music and local culture come alive every night.

4.0

Lahani Pokies & Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Lahani Pokies & Bar in Goroka, where entertainment meets local culture in a lively atmosphere.

3.0

Club McKenzie

Discover the lively nightlife at Club McKenzie in Goroka, where vibrant music and dancing create unforgettable experiences.

Best shops in Goroka

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Goroka Main Market

Discover the vibrant culture and flavors of Goroka at the Main Market, a must-visit destination in Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands.

3.3

Brian Bell Home Center

Experience the best of Goroka shopping at Brian Bell Home Center, where local culture meets quality home goods.

3.6

Goroka Papindo Top Town

Discover local flavors and unique products at Goroka Papindo Top Town, your gateway to the culinary delights of the Eastern Highlands.

3.2

Papindo Supercenter, Market

Discover local flavors and essentials at Papindo Supercenter, a vibrant grocery store experience in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province.

3.2

Explore Goroka on the Map

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

Goroka Essentials

Goroka is accessible via the Goroka Airport (GKA), which receives flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini and PNG Air are the primary airlines that operate these flights. The flight from Port Moresby to Goroka typically takes around one hour. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus or hire a private car for a scenic but lengthy drive from Port Moresby, which can take approximately 10-12 hours due to road conditions.
Within Goroka, transportation options include local taxis and minibuses known as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles). Taxis can be hired for a day or for specific trips, and it's advisable to agree on a fare beforehand. PMVs are the most common form of public transport and are quite affordable. For exploring the nearby areas, renting a car might be a convenient option. However, be aware that road conditions can vary, and driving can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the region.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Goroka, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Goroka, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Port Moresby if you are planning to explore rural areas where ATMs might be scarce.
Goroka is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard travel precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. The Kakaruk Market area can be busy and crowded, making it a hotspot for pickpocketing, so keep an eye on your belongings. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive items. It's always best to travel in groups and use reputable transportation services.
In case of an emergency, dial 111 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Goroka Base Hospital is the main medical facility in the area. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation handy.
Fashion: Do dress modestly to respect local customs, particularly in rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do be respectful of local religious practices and traditions. When visiting churches or sacred sites, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful when using PMVs. Don’t argue with the drivers or other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A simple 'hello' or 'good morning' in the local language, Tok Pisin, is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food or drink offers, as it can be seen as impolite.
To experience Goroka like a local, visit the Goroka Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don’t miss the annual Goroka Show if you’re visiting in September, where you can witness traditional dances and customs from tribes across the region. For a unique experience, take a trip to the J.K. McCarthy Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the Eastern Highlands.

When is the best time to visit Goroka?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Goroka

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 Goroka. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMoni
  [moh-nee]
- GoodbyeGutpela gut
  [goot-peh-lah goot]
- YesYes
  [yes]
- NoNogat
  [no-gut]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [tenk-yoo]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yoo stap goot]
- Fine. And you?Mi stap gut. Na yu?
  [mee stap goot. nah yoo]
- Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Tok Pisin?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long tohk pee-seen]
- I don't understandMi no save
  [mee no sah-veh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee lie-kim loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi no kaik kapul
  [mee no kai-kahp-ool]
- Cheers!Tingim yu!
  [ting-eem yoo]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik pai, plis
  [mee lie-k pie, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go liklik!
  [go lee-kleek]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dohk-tah]
- I'm lostMi lusim
  [mee loo-seem]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mee lie-k bah-eem]
- I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [mee tah-sohl loo-keem]
- How much is it?Em i klostu hau?
  [em ee klohs-too how]
- That's too expensiveEm i moa 'spensiv
  [em ee moh-ah es-pen-seev]
- Can you lower the price?Yu ken paitim prais?
  [yoo ken pie-teem price]
- What time is it?Hausait taim?
  [how-sah-eet tah-eem]
- It's one o'clockEm i wan o'klak
  [em ee wahn oh-klock]
- Half past (10)Haf pasten (10)
  [hahf pahs-ten]
- MorningMoning
  [moh-neeng]
- AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-veh-neeng]
- YesterdayYesde
  [yes-deh]
- TodayTede
  [teh-deh]
- TomorrowTumoro
  [too-moh-roh]
- 1Wan
  [wahn]
- 2Tu
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Fo
  [foh]
- 5Faiv
  [fahyv]
- 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
- 7Seven
  [seh-ven]
- 8Eit
  [eyt]
- 9Nain
  [nayn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Em istap...
  [em ees-tahp]
- What's the address?Wanem adras?
  [wahn-em ad-rahss]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu ken soim mi (long map)?
  [yoo ken soym mee long map]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanem taim namba?
  [wahn-em tah-eem nahm-bah]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht long]

History of Goroka

Before European contact, the Goroka region was home to several indigenous tribes. These tribes lived in a traditional society, practicing agriculture, hunting, and gathering. They developed unique cultures, languages, and customs that are still evident today.
The first recorded European contact with the Goroka region occurred in the 1930s when Australian gold prospectors ventured into the highlands. This initial contact led to the gradual opening of the area to the outside world.
During World War II, the Goroka region played a significant role as a strategic location for the Allies. The highlands provided a base for the construction of airstrips and support facilities, which were crucial for military operations in the Pacific Theater.
After the war, Goroka began to develop rapidly. The establishment of the Highlands Highway connected the town to the coastal ports, facilitating trade and growth. Goroka became a hub for education, health services, and administrative functions in the Eastern Highlands Province.
The Goroka Show, first held in 1957, is one of Papua New Guinea's most famous cultural events. This spectacular festival showcases the traditional dances, music, and costumes of various tribes from the highlands and beyond. It has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.
Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia in 1975. Since then, Goroka has continued to evolve, balancing traditional practices with modern influences. The town remains an important center for cultural exchange and economic activity in the region.