New Britain

The largest island of Papua New Guinea, New Britain is a land of fiery volcanoes, unspoiled corals, and rainforests sheathed in mist. During World War II, New Britain was the site of fierce fighting between Imperial Japanese and Allied forces, each seeking to establish supremacy over the surrounding seas. As such, the area is home to a series of wrecks, derelict aircraft, and underground tunnels. The region today is a calm, picturesque area, the tranquility shattered only by an occasional volcanic eruption.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Baia Sports Fishing Lodge

Gather at the Baia Sports Fishing Lodge, located on the northern coast of New Britain. While snorkeling and boat trips are available through the lodge, the main activity, as the name suggests, centers mainly around fishing; three types of bass swim within the river. More adventurous anglers may wish to try offshore fishing in the nearby seas.

Baining Mountains

Hike the rugged, isolated Baining Mountains, home to a series of villages inhabited by tribes indigenous to Papua New Guinea. For the complete experience, stay the night accompanied by your guide in a villager’s home.

Helicopter Over Volcanoes

Fly by helicopter over Tavurvur and Vulcan, two looming picturesque volcanoes that erupted spectacularly in 1994. While today they are quiet, the 1994 eruption caused the evacuation of Rabaul, then the provincial capital, and spewed smoke and ash 60,000 feet (18,288 meters) into the air. Admire the forbidding splendor of the two volcanoes from the air, especially the giant, steaming caldera within Tavurvur.

Japanese Tunnels

Visit the extensive, maze-like tunnels in and around Rabaul’s harbor, which measure 435 miles (700 kilometers) in total length. Dug by the Japanese to protect themselves from aerial bombardment, these tunnels include barracks and sleeping quarters, hospitals, and even hiding places for vehicles and barges.

Mount Garbuna

Despite being an active volcano, Mount Garbuna is an excellent hike. Because of its periodic eruptions, the area around the volcano is lush and verdant – due to the incredibly fertile volcanic ash ejected from Garbuna during each eruption. After you reach the top, gaze upon the surrounding forests and lowlands; on a clear day, hikers can see all the way to the coast.

Reef Diving

Make your way to Kimbe, a rapidly expanding harbor city overlooking the idyllic waves of the South Pacific. With over 900 species of fish and 400 species of coral, all situated in famously clear waters, Kimbe is an ideal location for intermediate and advanced divers.

Wreck Diving

During World War II, Rabaul, then the capital of New Britain province, served as a naval base and was the site of many battles. As a result, the nearby waters are littered with the hulks of sunken ships and shattered aircraft. Of particular interest is a Mitsubishi Zero fighter plane, which lies in 56 feet (17 meters) of water, nestled amidst rocks on the shallow sea floor, and overgrown with corals, barnacles, and other marine life.

Papua New Guinea Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

New Britain Itineraries

Sepik Highlands Safari

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
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Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort

Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort

New Britain, Papua New Guinea

Nestled along the coastline of Blanche Bay, Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort boasts sweeping views of New Ireland, the unspoiled Duke of York Islands and the volcanoes surrounding Rabaul town. Its private bungalows all come with air conditioning and private balconies, as well as satellite TV, iron/board, WiFi and IDD telephone. Suites also have separate living room and self-catering facilities. The restaurant is built in an authentic traditional Haus-win style with local timber poles and a sago roof, and provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, whilst the bar is a great place to relax with a local beer.
Gazelle International Hotel

Gazelle International Hotel

New Britain, Papua New Guinea

Built on the historic site of the official residence of Queen Emma of the South Seas, and still housing some of the original features, the Gazelle International is a modern 52-room hotel overlooking Blanche Bay. Its 52 rooms all have balconies and also include satellite TV, tea/coffee facilities, iron/board, internet and fridges. Premium rooms overlook Blanch Bay and have views of Tavurvur, East New Britain’s smoking volcano. Food and beverage outlets include Emma's, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine; Chino's Espresso Lounge, and Club Coe.
Kokopo Village Resort

Kokopo Village Resort

New Britain, Papua New Guinea

Situated in the heart of Kokopo Town, Kokopo Village Resort is only 20 minutes' drive from the Tokua airport and a convenient 10 minutes' walk from the famous Kokopo War and Cultural Museum and the Kokopo Golf Course. The resort is set in lush, tropical gardens and beautifully sits above a magnificent beachfront overlooking the Duke Of York Islands. Its rooms and bungalows all come with tea/coffee facilities, direct dial phones, cable TV, ironing facilities and daily newspaper. The resort also has a bar and restaurant.
Walindi Plantation Resort

Walindi Plantation Resort

New Britain, Papua New Guinea


This Papua New Guinea resort Ideally-located on the shores of Kimbe Bay, on the island of New Britain. The resort also plays home base to its boutique Liveaboard dive vessel, MV FeBrina, which plies the turquoise waters of Kimbe Bay in search of vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life. Guests can expect to be greeted by friendly, helpful staff, and enter into a relaxed resort with an informal atmosphere fitting of its beach surroundings. Rooms come in the form of bungalows and “Plantation House” rooms, spread along the beachfront or surrounded by well-manicured gardens. The hotel’s Casuarina Restaurant serves up Western and Asian dishes with fresh, local ingredients. A bar and a library lounge are also available for guests’ use. Adjacent to the lounge is the resort’s inviting pool. 


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