Kokopo, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Discover Kokopo, a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. Explore vibrant markets, war history, and stunning islands.

Kokopo, located in East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical intrigue. Once known as the town of Rabaul before the volcanic eruption in 1994, Kokopo has risen with charm and resilience, becoming a vibrant hub for visitors. The city offers a stunning backdrop of lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches. Tourists can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting the bustling Kokopo Market, where they can find local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. The Kokopo War Museum provides a poignant glimpse into the area's wartime history with relics and artifacts from World War II. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Duke of York Islands is a must. These islands boast crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Kokopo is also a gateway to the active Tavurvur volcano, where adventurous travelers can witness the raw power of nature up close. The city's warm and welcoming locals further enrich the experience, making Kokopo a memorable destination for all who visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Kokopo Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and best selection of local crafts.
Hire a local guide to explore the Tavurvur volcano for a safe and informative experience.
Bring cash as many local vendors and smaller establishments do not accept credit cards.
Respect local customs and traditions; always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen when exploring outdoor attractions.

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

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

Best attractions in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Bitapaka War Cemetery

Explore the poignant history at Bitapaka War Cemetery, a serene tribute to World War II heroes in East New Britain.

4.7

Japanese Barge Tunnel

Explore the captivating Japanese Barge Tunnel in East New Britain Province, a remarkable historical site showcasing World War II maritime artifacts.

4.7

Rababa Hot Springs

Experience the tranquility of Rababa Hot Springs, a natural oasis in Matupit Number 1, where relaxation meets stunning landscapes.

4.3

Hot Volcanic Springs

Experience the therapeutic Hot Volcanic Springs in East New Britain, a stunning natural attraction with relaxation and adventure in every soak.

4.7

Best landmarks in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Bitapaka War Cemetery

Explore the Bitapaka War Cemetery, a serene memorial in East New Britain honoring WWII heroes amidst tranquil landscapes and rich history.

4.7

South Sea Horizons

Explore the beauty of South Sea Horizons, a tranquil church on Makau Esplanade offering spiritual solace and stunning coastal views.

4.9

Kokopo Technical Secondary School

Explore the educational heart of Papua New Guinea at Kokopo Technical Secondary School, where culture and community thrive in harmony.

4.4

Niugini Dive and Tours

Experience the underwater wonders of East New Britain at Niugini Dive and Tours, where adventure and marine beauty await every diver.

4.5

Best restaurants in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Rabaul Yacht Club

Discover the vibrant flavors and stunning vistas at Rabaul Yacht Club in East New Britain Province – where every meal is a celebration of island life.

4.3

Club Coe

Discover Kokopo's vibrant nightlife at Club Coe—where electrifying music meets an unforgettable atmosphere.

5.0

Dinnice Café - Kokopo

Discover authentic Papua New Guinean flavors at Dinnice Café in Kokopo - where every meal is a delightful experience.

5.0

Mondo Cafeteria-Kokopo

Savor the essence of Papua New Guinea at Mondo Cafeteria-Kokopo, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

5.0

Best bars in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Club Coe

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club Coe, Kokopo's premier night club offering unforgettable dancing and entertainment in East New Britain.

5.0

Dinnice Café - Kokopo

Experience the authentic flavors of Papua New Guinea at Dinnice Café in Kokopo, where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.

5.0

Hot Rooster Kokopo

Experience delicious fast food at Hot Rooster Kokopo, featuring local flavors and international favorites in a vibrant dining atmosphere.

4.2

Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort

Discover the tranquility and adventure of Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, a tropical paradise in East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Club Coe

Dive into an unforgettable nightlife experience at Club Coe, the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and local culture in Kokopo, Papua New Guinea.

5.0

Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort

Experience the ultimate tropical getaway at Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, where relaxation meets adventure in stunning coastal surroundings.

4.2

Vavagil Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vavagil Club in Kokopo, where music, dance, and local culture unite for an unforgettable evening.

4.0

Kokopo Golf Course

Experience tranquil golfing at Kokopo Golf Course, surrounded by breathtaking views of Mount Tavurvur in East New Britain Province.

3.9

Best shops in Kokopo

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Kokopo Market East New Britain PNG

Discover the vibrant culture of Papua New Guinea at Kokopo Market, a hub for local crafts and fresh produce in East New Britain.

4.3

Hardware Haus Kokopo

Discover the ultimate DIY destination at Hardware Haus Kokopo, where quality tools and expert advice meet local craftsmanship.

5.0

MontezumaLtd

Explore Montezuma Ltd in Kokopo, East New Britain for unique trophies and souvenirs that capture the spirit of your travels in Papua New Guinea.

5.0

Boroko Motors Kokopo

Discover the heart of automotive excellence at Boroko Motors Kokopo, where quality vehicles and exceptional service meet.

4.4

Explore Kokopo on the Map

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

Kokopo Essentials

Kokopo is located on the northeastern coast of East New Britain in Papua New Guinea. The nearest international airport is Tokua Airport (RAB), which is approximately 20 kilometers from Kokopo. Flights to Tokua Airport are available from Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel transfer to reach Kokopo. The journey from the airport to the city center typically takes around 30 minutes.
In Kokopo, local transportation options include taxis, buses, and minibuses (PMVs). Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. PMVs are a popular and affordable way to get around the city and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car is also an option for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace. Be aware that road conditions can vary, and driving is on the left side of the road.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Kokopo, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kokopo, and it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more remote areas.
Kokopo is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to exercise caution and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in and around Kokopo have higher crime rates, such as Rabaul town, so it is best to stay vigilant and avoid these areas after dark. Always seek advice from locals or your accommodation regarding which areas to avoid.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kokopo. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The St. Mary's Vunapope Hospital is the main healthcare facility in the area.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or sacred sites, dress conservatively and remove your hat. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kokopo like a local, visit the Kokopo Market where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, and traditional PNG crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss a visit to the Kokopo War Museum to learn about the area's World War II history. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Duke of York Islands and enjoy the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

When is the best time to visit Kokopo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kokopo

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

- HelloGutpela dei
  [Goot-peh-lah day]
- GoodbyeGutbai
  [Goot-bye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNogat
  [No-gaht]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [Plis]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [Tehn-kyoo]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [So-ree]
- How are you?Yu stap gutpela?
  [Yoo stahp goot-peh-lah?]
- Fine. And you?Mi stap gutpela. Na yu?
  [Mee stahp goot-peh-lah. Nah yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Yu save long tok Inglis?
  [Yoo sah-veh long tohk Ing-lis?]
- I don't understandMi no save long harim
  [Mee noh sah-veh long hah-reem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [Mee like loo-keem meh-noo, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi no kaik abus
  [Mee noh kah-ik ah-boos]
- Cheers!Glas
  [Glahs]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik baim, plis
  [Mee like bah-eem, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go liklik!
  [Go lee-kleek!]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [Ko-leem Poh-lees!]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [Ko-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 like bah-eem...]
- I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [Mee tah-sol loo-keem]
- How much is it?Em i stap long hamas?
  [Em ee stahp long hah-mas?]
- That's too expensiveEm i luk olsem tok gut
  [Em ee look ol-sehm tohk goot]
- Can you lower the price?Yu inap lusim pris?
  [Yoo ee-nahp loo-seem prees?]
- What time is it?Em i taim?
  [Em ee tah-eem?]
- It's one o'clockEm i wan taim
  [Em ee wahn tah-eem]
- Half past (10)Haf past ten
  [Hahf past tehn]
- MorningMoning
  [Moh-ning]
- AfternoonApinun
  [Ah-pee-noon]
- EveningEvenin
  [Eh-veh-neen]
- YesterdayNaisde
  [Nah-ees-deh]
- TodayTude
  [Too-deh]
- TomorrowTumoro
  [Too-moh-roh]
- 1Wan
  [Wahn]
- 2Tu
  [Too]
- 3Tri
  [Tree]
- 4Fo
  [Foh]
- 5Faiv
  [Fah-eve]
- 6Sikis
  [See-kees]
- 7Seven
  [Seh-vehn]
- 8Eit
  [Ayt]
- 9Nain
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Tehn]
- Where's a/the...?Em i stap long...?
  [Em ee stahp long...?]
- What's the address?Em i adress?
  [Em ee address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu inap soim mi (long map)?
  [Yoo ee-nahp soy-mee mee (long map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Em i namba we? (bas)?
  [Em ee nahm-bah we? (bahs)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (go...)
  [Wahn tee-keht (goh...)]

History of Kokopo

Before European contact, Kokopo and the surrounding Gazelle Peninsula were inhabited by the Tolai people. The Tolai culture is rich with traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. The Tolai were known for their complex social structures, vibrant ceremonies, and the production of shell money, which was used in trade and social transactions.
In the late 19th century, the New Guinea islands, including the area around Kokopo, were claimed by Germany. The town became part of German New Guinea in 1884. During this time, the area saw the establishment of plantations, missionary activities, and administrative centers. German influence can still be seen in some of the architecture and place names in the region.
Following the outbreak of World War I, Australian forces occupied German New Guinea in 1914. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919 formalized this control, and the area was administered by Australia under a League of Nations mandate. During this period, the town of Kokopo served as a key administrative and commercial hub in the region.
Kokopo's history is closely tied to the events of World War II. In January 1942, Japanese forces invaded and occupied the nearby town of Rabaul, turning it into a major military base. Kokopo, located just a few miles away, was also affected by the conflict. Allied forces launched numerous air raids and battles to recapture the area, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. After the war, Kokopo became an important site for recovering artifacts and relics from this tumultuous period.
After World War II, Kokopo underwent a period of reconstruction and development. The town gradually rebuilt its infrastructure and grew in importance as a commercial and administrative center. In 1994, a volcanic eruption destroyed much of the nearby town of Rabaul, leading to a significant population shift to Kokopo. This event accelerated Kokopo's growth and development, transforming it into the region's primary urban center.
In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in preserving and celebrating the traditional cultures of Kokopo and the surrounding areas. Festivals, such as the Mask Festival, showcase traditional Tolai dance, music, and art. Modern Kokopo is a vibrant blend of old and new, where visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy cultural events, and experience the unique beauty of the Gazelle Peninsula.