Introduction: Papua New Guinea’s Photographic Paradise
The first time I stepped out of the plane at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby, the humid air hit me like a wall. That was back in 2014, and I had no idea I’d be returning to Papua New Guinea almost every year since. What started as a one-off photography assignment turned into a decade-long love affair with one of the most visually stunning yet least photographed countries in the world.
I still remember frantically adjusting my camera settings during my first Sing-sing festival, overwhelmed by the explosion of colors and movement, nearly missing some of the best shots because I was simply in awe. After 11 trips across this island nation, I’ve finally compiled what I believe are truly the most Instagram-worthy locations in PNG – places that have consistently filled my feed with images that make friends ask, “Wait, that’s really Papua New Guinea?”
Beyond the standard tourist spots, this guide dives into locations where the combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences create perfect photographic moments. From remote islands with crystal waters to highland villages where traditions remain vibrant, these spots offer authentic visual stories rarely seen on social media.
Cultural Photography: Traditional Villages and Festivals
The Highlands: Huli Wigmen of Tari Basin
Nothing in my previous travel experience prepared me for the visual feast of the Huli Wigmen. Located in the Southern Highlands province near Tari, these warriors with their elaborate yellow and red painted faces and ornate wigs made from their own hair create some of the most striking portraits you’ll ever capture.
On my third visit, I finally learned the difference between a tourist performance and an authentic ceremony. For the best photographs, arrange through a local guide (I recommend James Wandia at K350/day) to visit during preparation time around 7:00 AM when the men apply their face paint. The contrast between their focused expressions and the vibrant colors makes for powerful close-up shots.
“Wanbel tasol” (One mind only) – a local phrase that represents the unity you’ll witness during Huli ceremonies, where hundreds move as one.
Goroka Show: The Ultimate Cultural Festival
If you’re planning just one cultural photography opportunity in PNG, time your visit for the Goroka Show in mid-September. This gathering of over 100 tribes creates a photographer’s paradise with a riot of feathers, shells, body paint, and traditional bilas (decorations).
I made the rookie mistake of using auto settings my first year and missed the vibrancy of the colors. For best results, slightly boost your saturation when shooting and position yourself at the eastern end of the showground before 10 AM for optimal lighting against the backdrop of the Eastern Highlands.
Insider tip: While everyone crowds around the main performance area, slip away to the preparation zones behind the grandstands. Here, you’ll capture intimate moments of performers adjusting their headdresses and painting each other’s faces – authentic interactions that tell a deeper story than the staged performances.
Rabaul: Mask Festival and Volcanic Landscapes
East New Britain’s National Mask Festival in July combines cultural photography with dramatic volcanic landscapes. The Dukduk and Tubuan mask dancers emerging from the ocean at dawn create silhouettes against the rising sun that are pure Instagram gold.
The festival occurs near Rabaul, a town partially destroyed by volcanic eruptions in 1994. This creates a unique opportunity to photograph cultural performances with the still-smoking Mt. Tavurvur in the background – a juxtaposition of living culture against nature’s power that always earns heavy engagement on social media.
I nearly missed the dawn ceremony my first visit because I stayed in Kokopo (the new provincial capital) rather than closer to Simpson Harbor. Book accommodation at Rabaul Hotel (K450/night) despite its dated appearance – its proximity is worth the trade-off in luxury.
Natural Wonders: Landscapes and Wildlife
Tavurvur and Rabaul’s Volcanic Landscape
The apocalyptic landscapes around active Mt. Tavurvur near Rabaul create photographs that look otherworldly. The volcano’s perfectly cone-shaped silhouette against the blue sky, with wisps of smoke continuously drifting upward, makes for striking landscape shots.
For the most dramatic images, hire a boat (around K200 for two hours) to take you across Simpson Harbor at sunrise. The golden light hitting the volcanic ash creates an almost Mars-like landscape. Bring a zoom lens – on my last visit in late 2023, we got close enough to photograph the bright orange lava rocks tumbling down the slopes during a minor eruption.
A wide-angle lens captures the scale of destruction in the abandoned parts of Rabaul, where buildings remain half-buried in ash nearly three decades after the major eruption, creating an eerie, photogenic ghost town atmosphere.
Varirata National Park: Birds of Paradise
Just 42km outside Port Moresby, Varirata National Park offers your best chance to photograph the elusive birds of paradise without trekking deep into remote rainforest. The Raggiana bird of paradise (PNG’s national bird) displays its spectacular plumage here regularly.
Visit between 6:00-8:00 AM when birds are most active. I spent three consecutive mornings at the Koiari Road entrance lookout spot before finally capturing a male in full display. Pack a minimum 300mm lens, preferably longer, and a tripod. Entry costs K20, and hiring a local guide (K150/day) dramatically increases your chances of spotting these birds.
The park also offers panoramic views of Port Moresby and the Coral Sea from several lookouts, providing landscape photography opportunities alongside wildlife shots.
Tufi Fjords: Dramatic Coastlines
Often called the “fjords of the tropics,” Tufi’s ancient volcanic fingers reaching into the Solomon Sea create dramatic aerial shots. I spent extra on a scenic flight (K2,500 for a 45-minute flight) from Tufi Resort, and it remains some of the best money I’ve ever spent on photography.
The contrast between the deep blue waters, coral reefs visible beneath the surface, and dense rainforest covering the steep slopes creates multi-layered compositions that perform exceptionally well on Instagram. The isolated traditional villages perched on these fjords add human elements to your landscape shots.
For water-level perspectives, kayaking tours from Tufi Resort (K350 for half-day) allow you to capture the steep walls rising straight from the ocean – though watch your gear carefully as the occasional splash is inevitable!
Island Paradise: Beaches and Marine Life
Kimbe Bay: Pristine Coral Reefs
On the north coast of New Britain Island, Kimbe Bay hosts some of the most pristine and photogenic coral reefs in the world. Operating from Walindi Plantation Resort, I’ve captured underwater landscapes that rival the Maldives or Great Barrier Reef, but without another diver in the frame.
Even with just a GoPro or underwater smartphone housing, you can capture vibrant coral gardens and schools of tropical fish in the shallow reef areas. For serious underwater photographers, Walindi rents full camera equipment and offers specialized photography diving trips to sites like Bradford Shoals, where enormous schools of barracuda create silver tornados against the blue backdrop.
My best tip: schedule an afternoon boat trip to Restorf Island (K350), where the combination of white sand beach, crystal waters, and dense jungle creates both above and below-water photo opportunities in one location. The contrast between underwater reef shots and palm-fringed beach scenes creates a diverse Instagram story.
Lissenung Island: Over-Water Sunsets
Near Kavieng in New Ireland Province, tiny Lissenung Island delivers those classic tropical paradise shots that perform so well on social media. The small Lissenung Island Resort features overwater bungalows with stairs directly into the crystal-clear lagoon.
For Instagram perfection, catch the sunset from the western jetty, where the wooden walkway extends over transparent turquoise water. Back-light your subject against the setting sun for silhouettes, or use a polarizing filter during mid-day to enhance the already-stunning water colors.
I missed bringing my drone on my first visit and regretted it terribly. The aerial perspective showing the small island surrounded by different shades of blue water creates stunning patterns, especially at low tide when the reef patterns become visible.
Duke of York Islands: Traditional Canoes
Between New Britain and New Ireland, the Duke of York Islands provide opportunities to photograph traditional outrigger canoes against pristine beach backgrounds. These elegantly designed vessels with their distinctive sails make foreground subjects that add cultural context to your paradise shots.
Arrange a day trip from Kokopo (K500 including boat transfer) and ask to visit Mioko Island specifically. Here, fishermen still build and use the traditional sailaus (canoes), and for a small gift or payment (K50-100), they’re usually happy to position their vessels for your photographs.
Time your visit for early morning when the water is calmest and the light soft. I’ve found that a polarizing filter is essential here to cut through water reflections and reveal the reef beneath the canoes, adding another dimension to your compositions.
Urban and Historic Sites
Kokopo War Museum: WWII Relics
The outdoor exhibits at Kokopo War Museum feature abandoned Japanese tanks, aircraft parts, and artillery positioned against tropical backgrounds, creating haunting juxtapositions for historical photography. Entry costs just K25, and the museum has no restrictions on photography or tripod use.
Visit in late afternoon when the golden light adds atmosphere to these rusting war machines. The contrast of destructive military equipment slowly being reclaimed by vibrant tropical vegetation creates thought-provoking images that tell a story beyond mere beauty.
For something unique, ask the caretaker Benjamin (he’s usually there most afternoons) to show you the collection of sake bottles and personal items recovered from Japanese camps. These smaller artifacts photographed with macro lenses create intimate glimpses into history that complement the larger equipment shots.
Port Moresby: Ela Beach and APEC Haus
Port Moresby isn’t known as a photography destination, but the redeveloped Ela Beach and striking APEC Haus building provide urban architectural shots unlike anywhere else in the Pacific. The recently completed Ela Beach redevelopment features a curved boardwalk that creates leading lines toward the city skyline.
The APEC Haus, built for the 2018 APEC summit, sits on stilts over the water and is designed to resemble a traditional lakatoi sail. Visit at sunset when the building’s white structure turns golden, and capture reflections in the surrounding water. Security has become stricter, but photography from the public areas is still permitted.
I’ve found that a 24-70mm lens works best for these urban landscapes, capturing both architectural details and wider cityscapes with the distinctive PNG hills as backdrop.
| Location | Best Time to Visit | Photography Highlights | Approximate Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goroka Show | Mid-September | Cultural performances, traditional costumes | K150 entry fee per day |
| Tufi Fjords | May-November (dry season) | Dramatic coastal landscapes, traditional villages | K2,500 for scenic flight |
| Kimbe Bay | October-April (best visibility) | Pristine coral reefs, marine life | K350 for boat trip to Restorf Island |
| Huli Wigmen villages | Year-round | Traditional face painting, ceremonial dress | K350 for guide per day |
| Varirata National Park | Early morning (6-8 AM) | Birds of paradise, rainforest, city views | K20 entry + K150 for guide |
Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path
Karawari River: Sepik Villages
The remote Karawari River in East Sepik Province offers photography opportunities of traditional river life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Small villages built entirely on stilts over the water, with daily life played out in dugout canoes, create authentic documentary images rarely seen on Instagram.
Access is challenging, which is precisely why the images are so unique. I arranged a river expedition through Trans Niugini Tours (expensive at around K2,000 per day, but inclusive of everything). A cheaper option is flying to Wewak and negotiating with local boat operators, though this requires more time and flexibility.
Capture daily life: children paddling to school, women fishing from canoes, and traditional sago processing. Early morning offers the best light and atmospheric mist rising from the river. I use a weather-sealed camera here as protection against the high humidity and occasional rain showers.
Baining Fire Dance: Mt. Sinivit
In the foothills of East New Britain’s Mt. Sinivit area, the Baining tribe performs extraordinary fire dances that create mesmerizing night photography opportunities. Masked dancers leap through blazing fires, creating showers of sparks and dramatic silhouettes.
These ceremonies aren’t regularly scheduled for tourists like other cultural shows, making them more authentic but harder to access. I’ve had success contacting the East New Britain Tourism Bureau in Kokopo at least a month in advance to arrange a viewing (typically costs K500-1000 for a group as a contribution to the village).
Photographically, this is challenging: you’ll need high ISO capabilities (at least 3200-6400), a fast lens (f/2.8 or wider), and ideally some flash equipment for fill light. The dance typically starts around 10 PM and continues into the early morning hours. My first attempt produced only blurry images because I wasn’t prepared for the low light conditions.
Sirunki Highland Gardens: Agricultural Patterns
Near Enga Province’s capital of Wabag, the highland valley of Sirunki features remarkable agricultural landscapes where traditional gardening techniques create geometric patterns across the hillsides. These meticulously maintained gardens, growing sweet potatoes and other vegetables, create abstract landscape compositions from elevated viewpoints.
The area receives few foreign visitors, so arrangements should be made through the Enga Cultural Center in Wabag. Morning fog often fills the valleys, creating layered landscapes as it burns off and reveals the patchwork gardens below. A drone (with appropriate permissions) captures these patterns best, though good vantage points can be reached on foot with local guidance.
I’ve found that including the local farmers tending their plots adds scale and human interest to these otherwise abstract landscape shots.
Practical Photography Tips for PNG
Equipment Considerations
- Weather protection is essential – The high humidity and frequent rain showers in PNG can damage equipment. I learned this the hard way when my first DSLR developed fungus on the sensor after just one trip. Now I travel with weather-sealed bodies and lenses, silica gel packets, and airtight storage cases.
- Versatile zoom lenses are preferable – Given the unpredictable nature of cultural events and wildlife sightings, I’ve found a 24-70mm and 70-200mm combination covers most situations without requiring frequent lens changes in dusty or humid conditions.
- Power solutions – Many areas have unreliable electricity. Pack extra batteries and solar charging options for extended stays in remote areas. The Powertraveller Solar Charger has saved my photography multiple times in villages without power.
- Backup storage – Limited internet access means cloud backup isn’t always possible. I carry multiple SD cards and a portable hard drive with separate storage locations in case of theft or damage.
Cultural Sensitivity in Photography
Papua New Guinea has over 800 distinct cultural groups, each with different attitudes toward photography. Some general guidelines I’ve learned through occasional missteps:
- Always ask permission before photographing individuals – The local phrase “Mi ken kisim poto?” (Can I take a photo?) is one of the most useful to learn.
- Be prepared to pay for photographs in some circumstances – Particularly in areas frequently visited by tourists, there may be expectations of payment (K5-20 is typical for posed portraits).
- Some ceremonies or objects may be off-limits – Certain spiritual artifacts or rituals may be taboo to photograph. I once had memory cards confiscated after unknowingly photographing a men’s house in the Sepik region.
- Show respect by sharing images – When possible, show people their photographs on your camera’s screen. For longer stays, bringing a portable printer or returning prints during subsequent visits creates tremendous goodwill.
“Lukim yu bihain” (See you later) is not just a farewell phrase in PNG – it’s a promise I try to keep by returning to communities with prints of the photos I’ve taken, maintaining relationships that lead to more authentic photographic opportunities.
Money-Saving Photography Tips
- Group charter flights – For accessing remote photogenic locations like Tufi or Karawari, connect with other photographers through Facebook groups like “PNG Tourism” to share charter flight costs, potentially saving thousands of kina.
- Homestays over resorts – In locations like Madang or Kavieng, family homestays (K100-200/night versus K500+ at resorts) often provide better access to authentic village life and photographic opportunities unavailable to resort guests.
- Hire local photography assistants – Instead of expensive guides, hire local youth interested in photography (K50-100/day) who can both carry equipment and facilitate community access. I’ve trained several who now work as photographers themselves.
Best Times for Photography in Papua New Guinea
Seasonal Considerations
Papua New Guinea’s climate varies considerably by region, affecting photography conditions:
- Highlands (Goroka, Mt. Hagen, Tari) – May to October offers clearer skies with less afternoon rainfall, ideal for landscape photography. The major cultural shows (Goroka, Hagen) occur in September, aligning perfectly with good weather.
- Coastal and Island Areas – The “dry” season from May to November generally offers better visibility for underwater photography in places like Kimbe Bay and Tufi. However, I’ve found that December to February often provides the most dramatic skies for sunset beach shots due to scattered storm clouds.
- Rainforest Regions (Sepik, Karawari) – July to September offers slightly less rainfall, making river travel more predictable. However, the “wet” season (November-March) creates atmospheric mist and fuller waterfalls that can be worth the occasional downpour.
Cultural Festival Calendar
Plan your photography trip around these visually spectacular cultural events:
| Festival | Location | Dates | Photographic Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Hagen Cultural Show | Mount Hagen, Western Highlands | August (third weekend) | Largest sing-sing, elaborate headdresses, vibrant body paint |
| Goroka Show | Goroka, Eastern Highlands | September (around Independence Day, Sept 16) | Over 100 tribal groups, intimate setting, good lighting |
| Mask Festival | Kokopo/Rabaul, East New Britain | July (mid-month) | Dukduk and Tubuan spirits, dawn beach ceremonies |
| Crocodile Festival | Ambunti, East Sepik | August | River culture, crocodile hunting traditions, canoe races |
| Kundu & Canoe Festival | Alotau, Milne Bay | November | Traditional war canoes, maritime traditions, coastal landscapes |
I’ve photographed all these events multiple times and found that arriving 2-3 days before the official program offers behind-the-scenes preparation shots that often outshine the performances themselves.
Conclusion: Your PNG Photography Action Plan
After a decade of photographing this remarkable country, I’m still discovering new visual stories with every visit. Papua New Guinea offers a photographic diversity unlike anywhere else I’ve traveled – from smoky volcanic landscapes to vibrant cultural traditions and pristine marine environments.
The challenging logistics and limited tourism infrastructure that deter many travelers are precisely what preserve PNG’s photographic authenticity. Every difficult journey to a remote village or pre-dawn hike to a bird-watching spot has rewarded me with images that couldn’t be captured anywhere else on earth.
5-Step Action Plan for Your PNG Photography Adventure
- Start planning at least 6 months ahead – Book accommodations early, especially for cultural shows when options fill quickly. Research required permits for drone usage if applicable.
- Build a relationship with a local fixer/guide – Establish contact through tourism offices or hotel recommendations before arrival. A trusted local connection makes the difference between tourist snapshots and authentic cultural access.
- Prepare your gear for tropical conditions – Invest in weather sealing, extra batteries, and proper storage. Consider insurance that covers remote locations.
- Learn basic Tok Pisin phrases – Beyond “mi ken kisim poto” (can I take your photo), learn “tenku tru” (thank you very much) and “dispela poto em naispela tumas” (this photo is very nice). Language efforts open doors.
- Commit to ethical photography practices – Plan to share images with communities, respect cultural sensitivities, and represent PNG authentically without perpetuating stereotypes.
Remember that the most Instagrammable spots in PNG aren’t just about the location – they’re about capturing authentic moments of connection in one of the world’s most diverse yet least understood countries. The photos that perform best on my feed aren’t always the most technically perfect, but those that tell genuine stories of this remarkable place.
Whether you’re capturing the fiery glow of Mt. Tavurvur at sunrise or the weathered face of a Huli elder preparing for ceremony, approach each photographic opportunity with respect and openness. Papua New Guinea will challenge you as a photographer and reward you with images few others have captured.
As they say in Tok Pisin, “Poto i toktok” – the photo speaks. Let your images from PNG tell stories that go far beyond the typical travel feed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Papua New Guinea safe for photographers?
While PNG has a reputation for security issues, I’ve found that targeted photographer-specific concerns are minimal when taking proper precautions. Don’t display expensive equipment in urban areas like Port Moresby, travel with local guides in unfamiliar regions, and secure proper permits for commercial photography. The main risks I’ve encountered were environmental (rough roads, boat journeys) rather than security-related. Rural areas and smaller islands typically pose fewer safety concerns than urban centers.
What photography equipment should I bring to PNG?
Based on my experience, prioritize weather-sealed equipment due to high humidity and frequent rain. A versatile 24-70mm f/2.8 covers most cultural photography, while a 70-200mm f/2.8 is essential for wildlife and performance photography. For underwater opportunities, a quality underwater housing or action camera is worthwhile. Consider a drone for landscape perspectives, but check current regulations as they’ve tightened recently. I’ve found that traveling with more than two camera bodies and 3-4 lenses becomes cumbersome given the transportation challenges.
Do I need to pay people for taking their photos in PNG?
This varies by region and context. In remote areas rarely visited by tourists, gifts of useful items (fishing line, medicine, school supplies) are often more appreciated than money. At cultural shows and in tourism-developed areas, monetary compensation (K5-20 per person) may be expected for posed portraits. I’ve found the best approach is to ask your local guide about appropriate compensation before beginning photography. When possible, sharing printed photos during return visits creates tremendous goodwill and often leads to better photographic access.
What are the current drone regulations in Papua New Guinea?
As of early 2024, drone regulations have become stricter. Foreign visitors must obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of PNG (CASA) before bringing drones into the country. Applications should be submitted at least 30 days before arrival. Additionally, many cultural sites and national parks have their own restrictions. I’ve had success by contacting specific resorts or tour operators beforehand, as some have blanket permissions for their properties. Always respect local communities’ wishes regarding drone usage, as some traditional areas consider aerial photography intrusive.
What’s the best way to access remote photographic locations in PNG?
PNG’s limited infrastructure makes accessing remote locations challenging but rewarding. For highlands destinations like Tari (Huli Wigmen), scheduled flights with Air Niugini or PNG Air connect from Port Moresby. For coastal areas like Tufi or Kavieng, combining commercial flights with chartered boats offers the best flexibility. The most remote locations (Middle Sepik, Trobriand Islands) typically require either expensive chartered flights or combination journeys using commercial flights, vehicles, and boats. I’ve found that joining small group photography tours can significantly reduce costs through shared transportation expenses.
How can I photograph birds of paradise without an expensive guided tour?
While specialized birding tours charge premium prices (often K15,000+), I’ve had success with a more affordable approach. Varirata National Park near Port Moresby offers reliable sightings of the Raggiana bird of paradise with just a K20 entry fee. Hire a local guide at the entrance (K150-200/day) rather than booking through tour agencies. For other species, contact provincial tourism offices directly to connect with local bird guides. Community-run guesthouses near known bird of paradise sites in the highlands often have resident guides familiar with local display trees at a fraction of commercial tour prices.
References
- Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority – Official tourism website with updated festival dates and location information.
- Papua New Guinea Association of Australia – Historical context and cultural information useful for photographic storytelling.
- World Nomads: Traditions and Customs in PNG – Helpful guide for understanding cultural sensitivities relevant to photographers.
- Lonely Planet: Papua New Guinea – Practical information on transportation and accommodation options.
- National Geographic: Papua New Guinea Images – Inspirational photography and ethical approaches to cultural documentation.
- Civil Aviation Safety Authority of PNG – Current regulations for drone photography in PNG.
- Trans Niugini Tours – Logistics provider for accessing remote photography locations.
- Digital Photo Mentor: Photography Guide to PNG – Technical advice specific to photography challenges in PNG.
- Walindi Plantation Resort – Information on underwater photography opportunities in Kimbe Bay.
- Underwater Photography Guide: Kimbe Bay – Specialized information for underwater photographers visiting PNG.
- Adventure Travel Magazine: PNG Culture – Photography-focused coverage of cultural festivals.
- Birding PNG – Specialized resource for photographing PNG’s bird species including birds of paradise.