Is Papua New Guinea Safe for Travelers? 2025 Complete Security Guide - Xplrverse

Introduction: Understanding Safety in Papua New Guinea

The question “Is Papua New Guinea safe?” isn’t one with a simple yes or no answer. After my first visit in 2014, I’ve returned seven times, spending over 18 months exploring this remarkable Oceanic nation. My relationship with PNG began with trepidation and has evolved into deep respect and understanding. I’ll never forget my first night in Port Moresby—sweating in my hotel room, doors triple-locked after reading every terrifying travel advisory. Fast forward to 2024, and I’ve trekked remote highlands, stayed in village homestays, and developed friendships that have fundamentally changed my perspective on this misunderstood country.

Papua New Guinea presents a complex safety landscape that varies dramatically between regions. The nation faces genuine challenges: tribal conflicts in certain highlands areas, urban crime in parts of Port Moresby and Lae, and infrastructure limitations that can complicate emergency responses. However, with proper preparation, awareness, and respect for local customs, thousands of travelers safely experience PNG’s extraordinary cultural richness and natural beauty each year.

This guide draws from my extensive personal experiences and up-to-date 2025 information to provide a realistic assessment of safety concerns, region-specific advice, and practical preparation strategies. My goal is to help you make informed decisions about traveling to this fascinating destination that offers experiences found nowhere else on earth.

The Current Safety Situation (2025 Update)

Papua New Guinea’s safety landscape has evolved significantly since the pandemic. The government has implemented several initiatives to improve tourist security, particularly in Port Moresby and major tourist areas. The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary has increased presence in tourist zones, and the Tourism Promotion Authority now operates a 24/7 tourist assistance hotline (call: +675 7204 0700).

However, civil unrest in January 2024 affected parts of Port Moresby and several highland provinces, resulting in tighter security measures nationwide. While the situation has stabilized, it highlights the importance of staying informed about local conditions.

Recent Safety Improvements

Enhanced security at Jackson International Airport (POM)
Better street lighting in downtown Port Moresby
New tourist police units in major destinations
Improved cellular coverage for emergency communications
Stricter regulation of tour operators and guides

Despite these positive changes, PNG remains a destination where travelers should exercise heightened awareness. The US State Department maintains a Level 2 advisory (Exercise Increased Caution), while Australia’s Smart Traveller advises a similar level of caution.

Safety By Region: Where to Go and Where to Be Extra Cautious

Safety conditions vary dramatically across PNG’s diverse regions. Here’s a breakdown based on my extensive travels and current 2025 information:

Port Moresby (Capital City)

Port Moresby has long had a reputation for crime, but the situation has improved in tourist areas. The central business district, Waigani, and Ela Beach areas are generally safe during daylight hours. The upscale areas of Korobosea and Boroko are relatively secure but still require caution.

However, settlements like Six Mile, Erima, and parts of Gordons should be avoided, especially after dark. Carjackings and robberies remain concerns in these areas.

Highlands Region

The Highlands provinces (Eastern Highlands, Western Highlands, Enga, Southern Highlands) offer incredible cultural experiences but have complex security considerations. Mount Hagen and Goroka towns are relatively safe with proper precautions, but rural areas can experience tribal conflicts.

Enga Province has seen increased tribal fighting in 2024-2025, with tensions between the Ambulin and Kamanda tribes affecting areas around Wabag. The Southern Highlands have also experienced sporadic unrest. Always travel with reputable guides who understand local dynamics.

My own experience in the Highlands has been overwhelmingly positive when traveling with local guides. In 2023, I witnessed a tribal dispute in Tari that could have been dangerous, but my guide’s connections ensured we were protected and safely redirected.

Coastal and Island Provinces

The coastal and island areas generally offer better security conditions than the Highlands or major cities. East New Britain (Rabaul/Kokopo) is considered one of the safest regions for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Milne Bay Province, Madang (though exercise caution in Madang town itself), and New Ireland are also relatively secure.

I spent three weeks island hopping in the Trobriands (Milne Bay Province) in early 2024, often staying in villages without formal accommodation, and experienced nothing but hospitality and warmth.

Regional Safety Comparison

Region	Overall Safety	Main Concerns	Recommended Precautions
Port Moresby	Moderate	Street crime, robberies, carjackings	Use hotel transport, avoid walking at night, keep valuables hidden
Highlands	Variable	Tribal conflicts, roadblocks, carjackings	Always use local guides, research current conditions, avoid displays of wealth
East New Britain	Good	Minor theft, natural hazards	Standard precautions, respect local customs
Milne Bay/Islands	Good	Water safety, isolation	Use reputable boat operators, carry basic medical supplies
Bougainville	Moderate	Political tensions, limited infrastructure	Seek current advice, travel with organized tours

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Street Crime and Theft

Opportunistic theft remains the most common security issue for travelers. “Raskols” (criminal gangs) operate in urban areas, particularly Port Moresby and Lae. These groups typically target obvious tourists or those displaying wealth.

During my 2022 visit, I made the mistake of using my phone openly on a street in Boroko (Port Moresby) and was immediately approached by young men interested in “seeing” my device. I quickly put it away and moved to a more populated area. Lesson learned: keep valuable electronics concealed in public.

Insider Tip: In Port Moresby, I always carry a “decoy wallet” with a small amount of cash (around 50-100 Kina) and expired cards. My real valuables stay in a money belt under my clothes. This strategy has served me well across seven visits.

Tribal Conflicts

Tribal conflicts in the Highlands can escalate quickly and sometimes affect travel routes. These disputes are rarely targeted at foreigners, but being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time presents risks. The conflicts are often related to land disputes, elections, or payback for perceived wrongs.

In 2023, I had to cancel a planned trek in Enga Province when fighting broke out between two clans. My local contact advised the situation had become unpredictable, requiring a last-minute change of plans. The flexibility to adjust your itinerary is essential in PNG.

Transportation Risks

Road safety is a significant concern in PNG. Roads are often poorly maintained, and PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are frequently overloaded and poorly maintained. Highway robberies occasionally occur on major routes, particularly:

The Highlands Highway between Lae and Mount Hagen
Roads connecting Port Moresby to nearby provinces
Remote roads in Southern Highlands and Enga

Domestic air travel, while expensive, is generally the safest transportation option. Air Niugini and PNG Air maintain reasonable safety standards, though delays are common due to weather and operational issues.

Natural Hazards

PNG’s remote geography brings natural risks including:

Volcanic activity (particularly around Rabaul)
Earthquakes (significant events occurred in 2018 and 2023)
Malaria and other tropical diseases
Dangerous wildlife (particularly marine creatures and snakes)
Extreme weather during the wet season (November-April)

Essential Safety Preparations for PNG

Before You Travel

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is absolutely essential. Medical facilities outside Port Moresby are extremely limited. I use World Nomads with their highest coverage level for PNG travel.
Vaccinations: Consult a travel doctor at least 8 weeks before departure. Yellow fever certification is required if arriving from endemic countries. I recommend vaccinations for hepatitis A/B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies.
Malaria Prevention: PNG has high malaria risk in all areas below 1800m. I take daily doxycycline (prescribed by my doctor), use 40% DEET repellent, and sleep under treated nets in non-air-conditioned accommodations.
Register with your embassy: The US STEP program or equivalent for other nationalities provides crucial support during emergencies.
Local Contacts: Establish connections with reliable locals or tour operators before arrival. Having someone meet you at the airport makes a significant difference.

Essential Packing for Safety

Beyond standard travel gear, I’ve found these items crucial for safety in PNG:

First aid kit with broad-spectrum antibiotics (prescribed by your doctor)
Satellite communicator (I use a Garmin inReach) for remote areas
Photocopy of passport and important documents (both digital and physical)
Waterproof pouch for valuables during coastal travel
High-quality headlamp or flashlight (power outages are common)
Money belt worn under clothing
Local SIM card with data plan (Digicel has the best coverage)

Money-Saving Safety Tips

Safety and budget considerations often overlap in PNG. Here are my insider tips that will save you money while staying safe:

Insider Money-Saving Tip #1: Instead of expensive hotel airport transfers (often 200+ Kina), arrange pickup with AES Security—a legitimate security company that charges around 80 Kina for airport transfers in Port Moresby. They’re reliable and much safer than taxis. Contact them via Facebook or at +675 7200 5200.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #2: Rather than joining expensive organized tours in East New Britain (often 400+ Kina per day), connect with the East New Britain Tourism Office in Kokopo. They can match you with trustworthy local guides for approximately 150 Kina daily, providing both safety and authentic experiences while supporting the local economy.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #3: In Port Moresby, avoid the exorbitant hotel restaurants where meals often cost 70-100 Kina. Instead, eat at Vision City food court or Duffy Cafe in the afternoon (never after dark), where quality meals cost 25-40 Kina. Always take registered taxis for the journey (approximately 30 Kina round trip) rather than walking, making the savings worthwhile while maintaining safety.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding and respecting local customs is not just culturally appropriate—it’s a crucial safety measure in PNG. With over 800 languages and distinct cultural groups, customs vary widely across the country.

Essential Cultural Protocols

Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people or cultural sites. Some areas have specific photography taboos that can cause serious offense.
Land acknowledgment: All land in PNG has traditional owners. Never wander onto land without permission or appropriate guides.
Gender considerations: In many traditional areas, there are strict separation practices between men and women. Female travelers should be particularly aware of these customs.
Gift giving: Bringing small gifts when visiting villages is appreciated but can create complex obligations. Consult your guide about appropriate gifts.

Useful Tok Pisin Phrases for Safety

Learning basic Tok Pisin (PNG’s lingua franca) can significantly enhance your safety and connection with locals:

Tok Pisin Phrase	Pronunciation	English Meaning
“Nogat wari”	no-gat wa-ri	No problem/Don’t worry
“Plis helpim mi”	pleez hel-pim mee	Please help me
“Em i seif long hia?”	em ee safe long hee-ah	Is it safe here?
“Mi laikim gaid”	mee like-im guide	I need a guide
“Tenk yu tru”	tank you true	Thank you very much

I’ll never forget using “Apinun tru” (Good afternoon) with a group of young men who looked potentially threatening in a Port Moresby market. Their surprised reaction immediately transformed into friendly conversation and offers to help me find what I was looking for.

Special Considerations for Solo and Female Travelers

Solo Travel Safety

Solo travel in PNG presents significant challenges but isn’t impossible with proper preparation. Based on my solo trips:

Arrange airport pickups and accommodation in advance
Join organized day tours rather than exploring independently in high-risk areas
Connect with expat communities through Facebook groups like “Living in PNG” for advice and potential meetups
Consider a personal security escort in Port Moresby (hotels can arrange this)
Maintain regular communication with someone who knows your itinerary

Female Traveler Considerations

PNG presents unique challenges for female travelers due to gender inequality issues and traditional attitudes. While I’m not a female traveler myself, I’ve traveled extensively with female journalists and researchers who’ve shared their experiences:

Dress conservatively (shoulders and knees covered)
Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to reduce unwanted attention
Be aware that in many traditional communities, women may need to interact primarily with other women
Exercise additional caution when using public transportation
Female travelers report feeling very safe in organized tour settings and in areas like East New Britain

My colleague Maria, a photographer who’s visited PNG three times, recommends female travelers connect with local women’s groups like the PNG Women in Business Development Inc. for authentic cultural experiences in safer settings.

Digital Safety and Communication

Staying connected is an important safety measure in PNG, though infrastructure limitations present challenges:

Mobile and Internet Access

Digicel provides the most comprehensive coverage nationwide, though service can be spotty outside urban areas
B-Mobile/Telikom has improved in major towns but offers limited rural coverage
Purchase SIM cards at the airport on arrival (bring your passport for registration)
Data packages are relatively expensive: expect to pay about 30 Kina (≈$8 USD) for 1.5GB

Emergency Communications

For remote travel, a satellite communication device is highly recommended:

Garmin inReach or similar satellite messengers work throughout PNG
Consider renting satellite phones for Highlands or remote island travel
Download offline maps before departure

Important Emergency Contacts

Service	Number/Contact	Notes
National Emergency	000	Effectiveness varies by location
Tourist Police (Port Moresby)	+675 7204 0700	24/7 assistance for tourists
Medivac Services	+675 7411 1302	International SOS (requires membership)
US Embassy	+675 308 2100	For US citizens in emergency
Australian High Commission	+675 7090 0100	For Australian citizens in emergency
Port Moresby General Hospital	+675 324 8200	Main medical facility in the capital

My Personal Safety Mistakes and Lessons

Learning from mistakes is invaluable in a complex destination like PNG. Here are four significant errors I’ve made that you can avoid:

Mistake #1: Underestimating Urban Transportation Risks

In 2018, I decided to save money by taking a PMV (local minibus) from Port Moresby’s Gordons Market back to my hotel. Shortly after boarding, I noticed uncomfortable stares and realized I was the only foreigner. At the next stop, two men boarded and immediately focused on my daypack. Fortunately, I exited quickly and flagged down a security company vehicle that gave me a ride. PMVs are generally unsafe for tourists in major cities.

Lesson: Always use hotel shuttles, registered taxis, or reputable transportation in urban areas. The small savings aren’t worth the significant risk.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Village Protocol in Western Province

During a 2020 visit to a village near Kiunga, I began photographing fascinating traditional architecture without properly introducing myself to the village elders. This created immediate tension, with several men approaching me aggressively. My guide had to intervene, apologize profusely, and negotiate a small payment as compensation.

Lesson: Always follow proper protocol when entering villages. Allow your guide to introduce you to appropriate authorities and explain your presence before taking any photos or wandering around.

Mistake #3: Inadequate Medical Preparation

In 2019, I contracted a serious bacterial infection from a minor cut while trekking near Tufi. I had basic antibiotics but not the broad-spectrum medication needed for tropical infections. The nearest adequate medical facility was in Port Moresby—a difficult journey when ill. I ended up requiring IV antibiotics and was fortunate that my travel insurance covered a medical evacuation flight.

Lesson: Consult a travel doctor before your trip and carry prescription medications specifically for tropical environments. Medical facilities outside major centers are extremely limited.

Mistake #4: Displaying Valuables at a Highland Market

While visiting Mount Hagen’s central market in 2021, I carelessly pulled out my smartphone to check the time, then kept it in my hand as I browsed. Within minutes, I was surrounded by a group of young men making increasingly direct comments about my “nice phone.” The situation grew tense until my guide intervened, creating a distraction that allowed us to move to a safer area.

Lesson: Never display valuable electronics, jewelry, or large amounts of cash in public areas. Use a basic watch for time-keeping and keep your phone concealed except when absolutely necessary.

Sustainable and Ethical Travel Safety

Sustainable tourism practices in PNG not only protect the environment and culture but also enhance your safety by fostering positive relationships with local communities:

Community-Based Tourism for Safety

Opting for community-based tourism initiatives provides both safety benefits and more meaningful experiences:

Tufi Dive Resort’s village homestay program in Oro Province offers organized visits to traditional communities with established safety protocols
The Madang Tourism Bureau connects travelers with vetted village experiences
In East New Britain, the Kokopo Village Tourism Program provides safe cultural immersion

Money-Saving Sustainability Tip: Instead of buying bottled water (expensive at 5-10 Kina per bottle), invest in a quality water purification system like the Grayl Geopress (approximately $90 USD). It will pay for itself within two weeks of travel while eliminating plastic waste. The purified water is completely safe, addressing one of the most common causes of traveler illness.

Ethical Photography Practices for Safety

Photography can create security risks in PNG if not approached thoughtfully:

Always ask permission before photographing people or cultural sites
Be prepared to pay a small fee (10-20 Kina) for photographs in some communities
Avoid photographing military installations, airports, or government buildings
Consider bringing a polaroid-type camera to give immediate prints to subjects—this creates goodwill and positive interactions

When Things Go Wrong: Emergency Response

Despite the best preparations, emergencies can occur. Having a clear response plan is essential:

Medical Emergencies

Healthcare infrastructure in PNG is severely limited:

Port Moresby General Hospital is the best public facility but lacks many resources
Pacific International Hospital (private) offers better care but is extremely expensive
Outside the capital, facilities are basic and often lack essential medicines

For serious medical issues, evacuation to Australia is typically necessary. This can cost $30,000+ without proper insurance.

Crime Response

If you become a victim of crime:

Prioritize your physical safety over possessions—never resist armed robberies
Report incidents to the Tourist Police (Port Moresby: +675 7204 0700)
Contact your embassy or consulate
File a police report for insurance purposes
Replace essential documents before continuing travel

Natural Disaster Response

PNG is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and severe weather:

Follow all evacuation orders immediately
Register with your embassy to receive emergency alerts
For volcanic activity, monitor the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory Facebook page
During tsunamis, move to high ground immediately—don’t wait for official warnings

Conclusion: Is Papua New Guinea Worth the Risk?

After a decade of exploring PNG, my answer is a qualified yes—for prepared travelers. Papua New Guinea offers extraordinary experiences unavailable anywhere else: pristine diving, authentic cultural immersion with traditional societies, spectacular birdwatching, and landscapes of breathtaking beauty.

The security concerns are real but are often exaggerated in international media. With proper preparation, awareness, and respect for local customs, thousands of travelers safely experience PNG each year. The key is understanding that this isn’t a destination for casual or improvised travel—it rewards careful planning and a mindful approach.

Throughout my journeys across PNG’s islands, highlands, and coastal regions, the warmth and generosity of local people have consistently been my strongest memory. Yes, I’ve had uncomfortable moments and a few close calls, but these have been far outweighed by extraordinary positive experiences and life-changing encounters.

5-Step Action Plan for Safe PNG Travel

Research and Select Regions Carefully: Begin with safer areas like East New Britain or Milne Bay before considering more challenging regions like the Highlands.
Establish Local Connections: Contact the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority and regional tourism offices to connect with reputable guides and operators before arrival.
Prepare Comprehensive Documentation: Secure travel insurance with evacuation coverage, register with your embassy, prepare digital and physical copies of all important documents.
Create a Detailed Health Plan: Visit a travel doctor, obtain necessary vaccinations and prescriptions, pack a comprehensive medical kit.
Develop a Communication Strategy: Purchase a local SIM card immediately on arrival, set up regular check-in times with someone at home, consider satellite communication for remote areas.

Papua New Guinea will challenge you, occasionally frustrate you, but ultimately reward you with experiences of astonishing authenticity in a world where such opportunities are increasingly rare. If you approach it with respect, preparation, and an open mind, you’ll discover why those of us who have fallen under PNG’s spell keep returning despite the challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Port Moresby safe for tourists in 2025?

Port Moresby requires caution but has improved safety conditions in tourist areas. Stick to recommended neighborhoods (Ela Beach, Town, Waigani), use reputable transportation, and avoid walking at night. The new tourist police presence has made a positive difference in central areas.

Which parts of Papua New Guinea are safest to visit?

East New Britain Province (Rabaul/Kokopo area) is widely considered the safest region for tourists, with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure by PNG standards. The islands of Milne Bay Province, New Ireland (especially Kavieng), and parts of Madang Province also offer relatively secure environments for travelers.

Do I need armed security in Papua New Guinea?

Armed security is not necessary or recommended for most tourist activities. However, security escorts (unarmed) are advisable for certain activities in Port Moresby and when traveling to some parts of the Highlands. Reputable hotels can arrange appropriate security services when needed.

Is it safe to use public transportation in PNG?

PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are generally not recommended for tourists in urban areas due to safety concerns. In Port Moresby and Lae, use hotel shuttles, authorized taxis arranged by your accommodation, or reputable transportation services. In smaller towns and rural areas, PMVs may be safer but still exercise caution.

How common are violent crimes against tourists in PNG?

Violent crimes specifically targeting tourists are relatively rare in PNG, especially outside Port Moresby and Lae. Most security incidents involving foreigners are property crimes. However, the risk increases significantly when travelers ignore safety advice, display wealth openly, or venture into known high-risk areas.

Is it safe to hike the Kokoda Track in 2025?

The Kokoda Track, when hiked with registered operators, maintains a good safety record. The Kokoda Track Authority has implemented better regulation of tour companies since 2023. Always choose operators registered with the KTA and check recent reviews. The main risks are environmental and medical rather than security-related.

What should I do if I’m robbed in Papua New Guinea?

If confronted by robbers, prioritize your safety by complying with demands—possessions are replaceable, your safety isn’t. Afterward, report the incident to the Tourist Police (Port Moresby: +675 7204 0700), contact your embassy, and file an official police report for insurance purposes.

Is it safe to travel to PNG with children?

I don’t recommend Papua New Guinea for family travel with young children except in very specific circumstances—such as organized tours in East New Britain or resort stays in Tufi or Madang. The limited medical facilities, transportation challenges, and security considerations make it better suited for experienced adult travelers.