£1 PGK 5.78
Today
2:02 pm
+10h from you
Travel warning
There are intense tribal conflicts in parts of the country, with fighting zones, checkpoints, and curfews that make travel there very dangerous.
Weather in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea
15°
Slight rain showers
Wed
13
15
Thu
12
16
Fri
13
16
Sat
13
17
Sun
14
18
SPF level in Papua New Guinea
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Papua New Guinea
Tipping in Papua New Guinea
Tipping is not a widespread custom in Papua New Guinea, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. While not expected, small tips for good service are appreciated.
Restaurant
5-10% for exceptional service
Bar/Café
Small change or rounding up the bill
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated
Hotel Porter
2-5 PGK per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
5-10 PGK per day
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price for a good service
Safety in Papua New Guinea
Tips for British travellers
Papua New Guinea is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not display valuables like laptops, cameras, or mobile phones in public to avoid attracting thieves.
Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in towns and cities, due to the high risk of robbery and assault.
Be extremely cautious with alcohol as drinks contaminated with methanol can cause serious illness or death.
When driving, do not stop or remain at the scene of an accident as crowds can quickly turn violent.
Stay away from areas known for tribal fighting, even in tourist areas, as violence can escalate rapidly.
Bonus tips:
Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid making large withdrawals from ATMs, especially at night.
Be aware that the roads are often in very poor condition and driving standards can be erratic.
Driving in Papua New Guinea
A UK driving license is valid for 3 months. An international driving permit is required after that.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
65 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
111
Save 111 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Papua New Guinea
Voltage
240V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type I
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The electricity supply in Papua New Guinea is 240V at 50Hz. Plug type I is used. British travelers will require an adapter.
Cards & payments
Limited
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1094
ATMs in Papua New Guinea
Limited
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are mainly available in major towns and cities. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when travelling to more remote areas. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in Papua New Guinea. Contact your mobile provider before travelling to understand the costs. EU roaming agreements no longer apply post-Brexit, so UK visitors will be subject to international roaming rates.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 50 PGK (~£11)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Digicel, bmobile
WiFi & internet
Limited
Average speed
8 Mbps
WiFi is available in some hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major towns and cities, but coverage can be unreliable. Mobile data is the more common way to access the internet.
Health & vaccinations in Papua New Guinea
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including evacuation, as medical facilities in Papua New Guinea are limited. GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Papua New Guinea.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Malaria: Risk is high throughout the year. Consult your doctor about recommended prophylaxis.
Medical facilities in Papua New Guinea are limited, particularly outside of Port Moresby. Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance and necessary vaccinations. Seek medical advice well in advance of your trip.
Calling Papua New Guinea
Country code
+675
To call Papua New Guinea from the UK, dial 00 675 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Port Moresby from the UK, dial 00 675 325 1643.
To call Papua New Guinea, you will need the exit code for the UK (00), the country code for Papua New Guinea (675), and the local number.
UK Embassy in Papua New Guinea
British High Commission Port Moresby
Kiroki Street, Waigani, NCD, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Airports in Papua New Guinea
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.
