Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is probably the most diverse yet least explored country in the Asia-Pacific region. This British Commonwealth country, which gained independence from Australia in 1975, was also once a German colony, and has long fascinated travelers and adventurers. By 2011 it had become the seventh fastest growing economy in the entire world, mainly due to its vast mining and natural resource industry.
PNG has over 600 islands and more than 800 different cultural groups that have a wide range of dialects, art, music, dance, fashion and architecture. Over 95 percent of the almost 6 million people are Christians, though many combine this faith with their indigenous animism. Seashells were the official currency until 1933. PNG is less than a tenth of the size of Australia but has just as many species of animals. This is a place where the kangaroos live in trees and the marsupials are plentiful.
PNG is physically spectacular, with lush rainforests, flooded deltas, pristine highlands, thick jungles, active volcanoes and picturesque mountains (the highest peak is 14,793 feet). Military historians will enjoy visiting various sites which saw fierce combat during World War II – especially around Rabaul. Destinations include Alotau, the Sing Sing festivals at Mount Hagan, Goroka, world-class diving in Madang, Simbai/Kaironk Valley, Ambunti, canoe trips on the Sepik River and the capital of Port Moresby.
Papua New Guinea Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Weather in Papua New Guinea
The best time to visit Papua New Guinea is between May and October, when the weather is dry and most of the festivals are held.
- The temperature is hot and humid in lowland and coastal areas, and it generally hovers around 75°F to 95°F.
- In highland regions it is cooler, ranging between 54°F to 82°F and with significantly lower humidity.
- Clouds tend to appear in the afternoon, and it typically rains in the late afternoon and evening.
- Although Papua New Guinea is said to have dry (June to September) and wet (December to March) seasons, rainfall is actually common throughout both seasons.
- Sunshine is abundant and rainfall is minimal throughout May, June, and July, making these very popular months for travel.
Multi-Country Specialists
Papua New Guinea Goes Well With
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Getting Tribal in Papua New Guinea
- Author
- Travelogues
The relatively untouched jungles and highlands of Papua New Guinea are a haven for wildlife and a diverse array of tribal cultures unlike anywhere else in the world.
Tanks and Zeroes: Wreck Diving in Papua New Guinea
- Author
- Juanita Pienaar
There’s no doubt that PNG is one of the most exotic destinations in Asia, but things get even more exciting under the waves; diving in Papua New Guinea is a WWII adventure in one of Asia’s lesser traveled destinations.
Boys’ Trip in Papua New Guinea
- Author
- Remote Lands
Planning an adventurous getaway with the guys? Looking for a destination to challenge and amaze you? Why not get off the beaten path and check out one of the most untouched and exciting places in the world: Papua New Guinea.