Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Discover Port Moresby, the vibrant capital of Papua New Guinea, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern attractions.

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, is a vibrant city brimming with culture and history. Nestled along the shores of the Coral Sea, this bustling metropolis offers a unique blend of traditional Melanesian charm and modern amenities. As the main entry point to the country, Port Moresby serves as a launchpad for exploring the diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity that Papua New Guinea is renowned for. Begin your exploration at the National Museum and Art Gallery, where you can delve into the fascinating history and traditions of the region. The museum's extensive collection of artifacts, from ancient pottery to tribal masks, provides a deeper understanding of the local culture. For a taste of contemporary life, visit the bustling markets, such as the Boroko Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate in and around Port Moresby. The Port Moresby Nature Park is a must-visit, offering a sanctuary for native wildlife, including the spectacular birds of paradise. For breathtaking views, head to Ela Beach and enjoy a leisurely stroll along its sandy shores. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short trip to the nearby Varirata National Park, which boasts lush rainforests, scenic trails, and panoramic vistas. Port Moresby also offers a glimpse into Papua New Guinea's colonial past. The historic Bomana War Cemetery is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. Meanwhile, the Parliament House, with its striking architecture and traditional motifs, stands as a symbol of the nation's progress and resilience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of your time.
Carry local currency, as not all vendors at markets and smaller shops accept credit cards.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting cultural sites and local communities.
Arrange for transportation in advance, as public transport can be unreliable and taxis may not always be available.
Stay hydrated and use sun protection; the tropical climate can be quite intense.

Explore Port Moresby: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Remembrance Park

Explore Remembrance Park in Port Moresby, a serene monument honoring military sacrifices amid lush landscapes and rich history.

3.8

Coronation Park Port Moresby

Explore the lush landscapes and serene atmosphere of Coronation Park, a tranquil escape in the heart of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

3.3

Lahara Park

Explore Lahara Park, a tranquil escape in Port Moresby filled with lush greenery, walking paths, and serene atmosphere for relaxation and leisure.

3.2

syo parkplace

Syo Parkplace: A serene urban oasis in Port Moresby, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying the beauty of nature amidst city life.

2.9

Best landmarks in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Vision City Mega Mall

Discover the heart of Port Moresby at Vision City Mega Mall - your ultimate shopping and entertainment destination in Papua New Guinea.

4.0

Port Moresby Nature Park

Discover the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Papua New Guinea at Port Moresby Nature Park, a perfect family-friendly destination.

4.3

Jacksons Airport. -Port Moresby

Discover the vibrant charm of Jacksons Airport, your first step into the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Papua New Guinea.

3.7

Sir John Guise Stadium

Discover the excitement at Sir John Guise Stadium, a cultural and sports hub in Port Moresby, where thrilling events bring together locals and tourists alike.

3.9

Best restaurants in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Discover fresh seafood delights at Dynasty Seafood Restaurant in Port Moresby’s Vision City Mega Mall - A must-visit culinary destination.

3.9

Daikoku Japanese Steak House

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

4.0

Fu Gui

Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Fu Gui in Port Moresby - where tradition meets culinary excellence in every dish.

4.0

Edge Cafe Port Moresby

Experience the best brunch in Port Moresby at Edge Cafe, where local flavors meet cozy ambiance for an unforgettable meal.

4.2

Best bars in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming

Discover the lively atmosphere at Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming, where local flavors meet international delights in Port Moresby.

4.1

Alibi Bar & Grill

Savor the essence of Port Moresby at Alibi Bar & Grill, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a vibrant setting.

4.2

Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar

Experience the delightful blend of local flavors and stunning views at Port Terrace Restaurant & Bar in Port Moresby.

4.2

Ozzie’s Bar

Discover Ozzie’s Bar: A vibrant coastal oasis in Port Moresby offering refreshing drinks and stunning ocean views.

3.7

Best nightclubs in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

The Gold Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Port Moresby at The Gold Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

4.0

Club Illusion PNG

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Port Moresby at Club Illusion PNG, where the dance floor comes alive with energy and excitement every night.

3.3

BlackOut Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Port Moresby at BlackOut Night Club, where rhythm meets excitement in the heart of the city.

4.0

Club Regal

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club Regal in Port Moresby, where music, dance, and cultural experiences come together.

3.7

Best shops in Port Moresby

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Stop N Shop Harbour City

Discover a premier shopping destination in Port Moresby with retail, dining, and entertainment at Stop N Shop Harbour City.

3.9

Jack's of PNG

Discover unique Papua New Guinea fashion at Jack's of PNG, where local culture meets contemporary style in Port Moresby.

3.9

Unity Mall & Supermarket

Discover shopping bliss and local flavors at Unity Mall & Supermarket, the heart of Port Moresby’s retail scene.

4.2

Cool Stuf Ltd / Smart Shopper Ltd

Explore Cool Stuf Ltd in Port Moresby for the latest in electronics, gadgets, and local specialties in a vibrant shopping destination.

4.0

Explore Port Moresby on the Map

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

Port Moresby Essentials

Port Moresby is the capital city of Papua New Guinea and is well-connected by air. The main entry point is Jacksons International Airport (POM), which hosts flights from major cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, Singapore, Manila, and Hong Kong. Airlines like Air Niugini, Qantas, and Philippine Airlines operate frequent flights to and from Port Moresby. Once at Jacksons International Airport, taxis and shuttle services are available to take you to your accommodation.
Port Moresby has various transportation options including taxis, buses (locally known as PMVs), and car rentals. Taxis are generally safe but ensure they are from reputable companies like Scarlet Taxis or Comfort Taxis. PMVs are cheaper but can be crowded and less reliable. Car rentals are available at the airport and in the city; driving can be challenging due to the condition of some roads and local driving habits.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are widely available in the city, but be cautious when withdrawing money and avoid using ATMs at night.
Port Moresby has areas with high crime rates, particularly targeting tourists. It is advisable to avoid neighborhoods such as Gordons, Hohola, and Boroko at night. Always be cautious with your belongings, avoid walking alone after dark, and use reputable taxis or transportation services. Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially in the evening.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for police assistance. For medical emergencies, dial 112. The main hospital in Port Moresby is Port Moresby General Hospital, which offers emergency services. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as healthcare facilities may be limited.
Fashion: Do dress modestly; avoid wearing revealing clothing. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal due to the tropical climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting a church or religious site, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be cautious when using PMVs, as they can be crowded and less secure. Avoid them at night. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a friendly demeanor go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Mumu (a traditional baked dish). Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.
To experience Port Moresby like a local, visit Ela Beach and the National Botanical Gardens. Engage with locals at local markets like Gordons Market, but be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t miss the National Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea. For a unique experience, attend a traditional sing-sing (cultural performance) if you get the chance.

When is the best time to visit Port Moresby?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Port Moresby

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

- HelloGutpela dei
  [goot-peh-lah day]
- GoodbyeGutbai
  [goot-bye]
- YesYes
  [yes]
- NoNogat
  [noh-gaht]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
- Thank youTangkyu
  [tang-kyoo]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Yu stap gutpela?
  [yoo stap goot-peh-lah]
- Fine. And you?Mi stap gutpela. Na yu?
  [mee stap goot-peh-lah. nah yoo]
- Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long in-gleesh]
- I don't understandMi nogat save
  [mee noh-gaht sah-veh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee like look-eem meh-noo, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi nogat kaik kaukau
  [mee noh-gaht kah-ee kow-kow]
- Cheers!Cheeeers!
  [chee-eeers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik baim, plis
  [mee like bah-eem, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go long we!
  [go long way]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dohk-tah]
- I'm lostMi lusim rot
  [mee loo-seem roht]
- 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 look-eem]
- How much is it?Em inap long moni?
  [ehm ee-nahp long moh-nee]
- That's too expensiveEm tru long moni
  [ehm troo long moh-nee]
- Can you lower the price?Yu inap kisim daun moni?
  [yoo ee-nahp kee-seem daun moh-nee]
- What time is it?Em taim nau?
  [ehm tah-eem now]
- It's one o'clockEm iwan o'klok
  [ehm ee-wahn oh-klok]
- Half past (10)Haf pasten
  [hahf pahs-tehn]
- MorningMonin
  [moh-neen]
- AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
- EveningEvenin
  [ee-veh-neen]
- YesterdayDei las
  [day lahs]
- TodayDei nau
  [day now]
- TomorrowDei bihain
  [day bee-hine]
- 1Wan
  [wahn]
- 2Tu
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Fo
  [foh]
- 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
- 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
- 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
- 8Eit
  [ate]
- 9Nain
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [tehn]
- Where's a/the...?Em i stap long...
  [ehm ee stap long]
- What's the address?Wanem address?
  [wah-nehm 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)?Wanem taim bus inap kam?
  [wah-nehm tah-eem bus ee-nahp kahm]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wah-n tee-keht long]

History of Port Moresby

The area now known as Port Moresby has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Motu-Koitabu people. These indigenous groups lived in small villages along the coast and were skilled fishermen and traders. They practiced the Hiri trade, a long-distance maritime exchange with the Gulf of Papua, using large, elaborately crafted canoes known as 'lakatoi'.
Port Moresby was first encountered by Europeans in 1873 when Captain John Moresby of the British Royal Navy sailed into the harbor and named it after his father, Admiral Sir Fairfax Moresby. In 1884, the area became part of British New Guinea, and later it was administered by Australia as part of the Territory of Papua and New Guinea following World War I.
During World War II, Port Moresby was a strategic military base for the Allies due to its location between Australia and Southeast Asia. In 1942, Japanese forces attempted to capture Port Moresby in what became known as the Battle of the Coral Sea, the first aircraft carrier battle in history. The Allies' successful defense of the city prevented Japanese advancement into Australia.
After World War II, Port Moresby underwent significant reconstruction and development. It became the administrative capital of the Territory of Papua and New Guinea, which gained full independence in 1975 as the nation of Papua New Guinea. Port Moresby was declared the capital city of the new nation.
Today, Port Moresby is a bustling urban center and the largest city in Papua New Guinea. The city is known for its vibrant mix of cultures and traditions, with numerous landmarks such as the National Parliament House, the Port Moresby Nature Park, and the National Museum and Art Gallery showcasing the country's rich heritage. Despite facing challenges such as urban inequality and crime, Port Moresby continues to grow and develop, playing a crucial role in the nation's economy and governance.