Broke Backpacking In Papua New Guinea: The Ultimate Guide

Papua New Guinea is a country of adventure and raw beauty. With its dense rainforests, towering mountain ranges, and pristine islands, PNG is a haven for backpackers and travelers alike. From the famous Kokoda Track to the vibrant tribal cultures, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences to be had in this island nation.
Despite its many attractions, Papua New Guinea remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path destination, especially for budget travelers. However, with some careful planning and research, it’s entirely possible to explore PNG on a broke budget. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips and advice on how to backpack through PNG without breaking the bank.
From finding affordable accommodation and transportation to fathoming the complexities of PNG’s tribal cultures, we will be covering it all in this blog. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just starting to plan your next adventure, we hope to inspire and inform you as you prepare to embark on the journey of a lifetime in Papua New Guinea.

How to get there:

Papua New Guinea, with its lush rainforests, towering mountain ranges, and vibrant tribal cultures, is a destination that embodies adventure and raw natural beauty. However, getting to this island nation can be a challenge, especially for budget travelers who prefer to use public transportation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the options for reaching Papua New Guinea from neighboring countries using public transportation.

From Indonesia

The most common route to Papua New Guinea from Indonesia is through the border town of Jayapura (formerly known as Hollandia). Here’s how to get there using public transportation:

Fly to Jayapura: From major Indonesian cities like Jakarta or Bali, fly to Sentani Airport (DJJ) in Jayapura. You can use airlines like Garuda Indonesia or Lion Air.
Cross the Border: From Jayapura, take a taxi or public minibus (known as “taksi”) to the Indonesia-PNG border at Skouw. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately IDR 50,000 (USD 3.50).
Enter PNG: After clearing Indonesian immigration, walk across the border to the PNG side, where you’ll need to clear customs and immigration. Be prepared for basic facilities and potential delays.
Reach Port Moresby: From the border, take a public minibus or PMV (Public Motor Vehicle) to Vanimo, the capital of Sandaun Province. From Vanimo, you can fly to Port Moresby (POM), the capital of Papua New Guinea, using airlines like Air Niugini or PNG Air.

From Solomon Islands

While there are no direct public transportation options from the Solomon Islands to Papua New Guinea, you can take a ferry or flight from Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands, to Port Moresby:

Fly to Port Moresby: From Honiara International Airport (HIR), fly to Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport (POM) using airlines like Solomon Airlines or Air Niugini.
Take a Ferry (Not Recommended): Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Honiara to Port Moresby, but this option is not recommended due to the long journey time (around 7-10 days) and limited amenities.

From Australia

While there are no direct public transportation options from Australia to Papua New Guinea, you can take a flight from major Australian cities like Cairns, Brisbane, or Sydney:

Fly to Port Moresby: From major Australian airports, fly to Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport (POM) using airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, or Air Niugini.

When to go:

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is the best time to visit Papua New Guinea, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for:

Trekking and hiking: Enjoy clearer trails and better visibility on iconic treks like the Kokoda Track.
Island-hopping: Explore the stunning islands of the Louisiade Archipelago or the Trobriand Islands.
Cultural events: Attend vibrant festivals like the Goroka Show or the Mount Hagen Show.

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)

The shoulder season offers a good balance between weather and crowds. This period is suitable for:

Budget-conscious travelers: Enjoy lower prices for accommodations and tour packages.
Nature lovers: Witness the beautiful blooming of flowers and lush green landscapes.
Adventure seekers: Take advantage of fewer crowds on popular treks and attractions.

Wet Season (December to March)

The wet season is characterized by heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding. This period is not ideal for:

Trekking and hiking: Trails can be slippery, and landslides may occur.
Road travel: Flooding and landslides can make roads impassable.
Island-hopping: Rough seas and strong winds can make boat travel challenging.

Regional Variations

Keep in mind that Papua New Guinea’s climate varies greatly across different regions:

Islands: Island regions have a more tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity year-round.
Highlands: The highlands experience a milder climate, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall.
Coastal regions: Coastal areas tend to be hotter and more humid, with more pronounced wet and dry seasons.

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Port Moresby
Arrive in Port Moresby, the capital city
Explore the National Museum and Art Gallery
Visit the famous Ela Beach
Day 2: Sogeri
Take a PMV (Public Motor Vehicle) to Sogeri ( approx. PGK 10-20 / USD 3-6)
Hike to the nearby waterfalls and enjoy the scenic views
Stay overnight at a local guesthouse
Day 3: Return to Port Moresby
Return to Port Moresby by PMV
Visit the Port Moresby Markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping
Depart from Port Moresby

1-Week Itinerary

Day 1-2: Port Moresby
Explore the city, visit the National Museum and Art Gallery, and Ela Beach
Take a day trip to the nearby Varirata National Park
Day 3-4: Goroka
Fly to Goroka (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Visit the famous Goroka Markets and explore the town
Take a day trip to the nearby Asaro Valley
Day 5-6: Mount Hagen
Fly to Mount Hagen (approx. PGK 300-500 / USD 90-150)
Explore the town and visit the Mount Hagen Markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Mount Hagen Rondon Ridge
Day 7: Return to Port Moresby
Fly back to Port Moresby (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Depart from Port Moresby

2-Week Itinerary

Day 1-3: Port Moresby
Explore the city, visit the National Museum and Art Gallery, and Ela Beach
Take a day trip to the nearby Varirata National Park
Day 4-6: Goroka
Fly to Goroka (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Visit the famous Goroka Markets and explore the town
Take a day trip to the nearby Asaro Valley
Day 7-9: Mount Hagen
Fly to Mount Hagen (approx. PGK 300-500 / USD 90-150)
Explore the town and visit the Mount Hagen Markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Mount Hagen Rondon Ridge
Day 10-12: Madang
Fly to Madang (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Explore the town and visit the Madang Markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Balek Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 13-14: Return to Port Moresby
Fly back to Port Moresby (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Depart from Port Moresby

1-Month Itinerary

Week 1: Port Moresby and Central Province

Explore Port Moresby and visit the National Museum and Art Gallery
Take a day trip to the nearby Varirata National Park
Visit the famous Bomana War Cemetery

Week 2: Goroka and the Eastern Highlands

Fly to Goroka (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Visit the famous Goroka Markets and explore the town
Take a day trip to the nearby Asaro Valley

Week 3: Mount Hagen and the Western Highlands

Fly to Mount Hagen (approx. PGK 300-500 / USD 90-150)
Explore the town and visit the Mount Hagen Markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Mount Hagen Rondon Ridge

Week 4: Madang and the Momase Region

Fly to Madang (approx. PGK 500-800 / USD 150-240)
Explore the town and visit the Madang Markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Balek Wildlife Sanctuary

Transportation:

Papua New Guinea, with its rugged terrain and limited infrastructure, can be a challenging destination for travelers. However, with a little planning and patience, you can navigate the country using public transportation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options for getting around Papua New Guinea, from PMVs to ferries.

PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles)

PMVs are the most common form of public transportation in Papua New Guinea. These vehicles, usually Toyota Land Cruisers or similar models, operate on fixed routes and can be hailed from the side of the road.

How to use PMVs:
Find a PMV stop or hail one from the side of the road.
Negotiate the fare with the driver before departing.
Be prepared for crowded conditions and variable driving standards.
Fares:
Short distances (less than 10 km): PGK 5-10 / USD 1.50-3
Medium distances (10-50 km): PGK 10-30 / USD 3-9
Long distances (over 50 km): PGK 30-50 / USD 9-15

Buses

Buses are a less common form of public transportation in Papua New Guinea, but they can be found in major towns and cities.

How to use buses:
Find a bus stop or terminal.
Check the route and fare with the driver or conductor.
Pay the fare when boarding.
Fares:
Short distances: PGK 5-10 / USD 1.50-3
Medium distances: PGK 10-20 / USD 3-6
Long distances: PGK 20-50 / USD 6-15

Ferries

Ferries are a crucial form of transportation in Papua New Guinea, connecting the mainland to the islands.

How to use ferries:
Find a ferry terminal or wharf.
Check the schedule and fare with the ferry operator.
Pay the fare when boarding.
Fares:
Short distances: PGK 20-50 / USD 6-15
Medium distances: PGK 50-100 / USD 15-30
Long distances: PGK 100-200 / USD 30-60

Flights

Flights are a convenient way to travel long distances in Papua New Guinea, especially to remote areas.

How to use flights:
Book a flight with a reputable airline, such as Air Niugini or PNG Air.
Check-in at the airport and pay any applicable taxes or fees.
Board the flight and enjoy the scenic views.
Fares:
Domestic flights: PGK 500-1,500 / USD 150-450
International flights: PGK 1,500-5,000 / USD 450-1,500

Taxis

Taxis are available in major towns and cities, but be prepared to negotiate the fare.

How to use taxis:
Find a taxi rank or hail one from the street.
Negotiate the fare with the driver before departing.
Be prepared for variable driving standards and road conditions.
Fares:
Short distances: PGK 10-20 / USD 3-6
Medium distances: PGK 20-50 / USD 6-15
Long distances: PGK 50-100 / USD 15-30

Safety Tips

When using public transportation in Papua New Guinea, keep the following safety tips in mind:

Always negotiate the fare before departing.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Avoid traveling alone at night.
Use reputable transportation services and avoid hitchhiking.
Be prepared for variable driving standards and road conditions.

Navigating Papua New Guinea using public transportation requires patience, flexibility, and a sense of adventure. By understanding the various options available, from PMVs to ferries, you can explore this incredible country without breaking the bank. Remember to stay safe, be respectful of local customs, and enjoy the scenic views.

Top things to do:

Port Moresby and Central Province

National Museum and Art Gallery: Learn about PNG’s history and culture (free admission)
Ela Beach: Relax on this popular beach (free admission)
Bomana War Cemetery: Pay respects to WWII soldiers (free admission)
Varirata National Park: Hike and spot birdlife (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Port Moresby Markets: Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs (free admission)
Koki Market: Explore this bustling market for fresh produce and local goods (free admission)
Papua New Guinea National Botanic Gardens: Stroll through these beautiful gardens (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Idubada Island: Take a day trip to this nearby island for snorkeling and swimming (PGK 50 / USD 15 per person)

Goroka and the Eastern Highlands

Goroka Markets: Experience the famous Saturday market (free admission)
Asaro Valley: Hike and spot traditional tribal villages (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Kaindi Village: Visit this traditional tribal village (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Goroka Golf Course: Play a round of golf with scenic views (PGK 50 / USD 15 green fee)
Eastern Highlands Province Cultural Centre: Learn about local culture and traditions (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Daulo Pass: Hike to this scenic pass for stunning views (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Goroka Town: Explore the town and its many shops and markets (free admission)
Lufa Town: Visit this nearby town for its scenic views and traditional tribal villages (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)

Mount Hagen and the Western Highlands

Mount Hagen Markets: Explore the bustling market (free admission)
Mount Hagen Rondon Ridge: Hike and enjoy scenic views (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Kuk Early Agricultural Site: Visit this ancient agricultural site (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Western Highlands Province Cultural Centre: Learn about local culture and traditions (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)
Mount Hagen Town: Explore the town and its many shops and markets (free admission)
Kagamuga Airport: Visit this airport for its scenic views and traditional tribal villages (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Waghi Valley: Hike and spot traditional tribal villages (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Mount Wilhelm: Hike to the highest peak in Papua New Guinea (PGK 50 / USD 15 entrance fee)

Madang and the Momase Region

Madang Markets: Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs (free admission)
Balek Wildlife Sanctuary: Spot birdlife and other wildlife (PGK 20 / USD 6 entrance fee)
Madang Harbour: Take a boat tour of the harbour (PGK 50 / USD 15 per person)
Siassi Islands: Take a day trip to these nearby islands (PGK 100 / USD 30 per person)
Madang Town: Explore the town and its many shops and markets (free admission)
Karkar Island: Visit this nearby island for its scenic views and traditional tribal villages (PGK 50 / USD 15 per person)
Bagabag Island: Take a day trip to this nearby island for snorkeling and swimming (PGK 100 / USD 30 per person)
Madang Province Cultural Centre: Learn about local culture and traditions (PGK 10 / USD 3 entrance fee)

Island Regions

Trobriand Islands: Visit these famous islands for their unique culture and traditions (PGK 500 / USD 150 per person for a day trip)
Louisiade Archipelago: Explore these beautiful islands and their stunning beaches (PGK 500 / USD 150 per person for a day trip)
Bougainville Island: Visit this island for its unique culture and history (PGK 500 / USD 150 per person for a day trip)
New Britain Island: Explore this island’s stunning natural beauty and unique culture (PGK 500 / USD 150 per person for a day trip)

Food:

Papua New Guinea is a country proud of its culture, and this reflects in its food. As a poor backpacker, you will be glad to hear that eating in Papua New Guinea can be very affordable and delicious. Traditional Papua New Guinean cuisine is highly inspired by the Melanesian heritage and the country’s geographical positioning in the Pacific. Most meals feature staples like sweet potatoes, taro, and yams, often served with fresh fish and seafood, as well as chicken and pork.
One of the best ways to experience the local cuisine is by visiting the many markets found throughout the country. These busy markets provide everything in fresh produce-from the more bizarre fruits such as durian and rambutan down to traditional Papua New Guinean cuisine. Try some of the local foods that are offered around you, like mumu-a kind of traditional Papua New Guinean feast that contains slow-cooked meat and vegetables in banana leaves. You might also come across some more unusual dishes, like kukulakuka, a type of frog that’s considered a delicacy in some parts of the country.
In addition to traditional Papua New Guinean cuisine, you will find a number of international restaurants, particularly in the larger towns and cities. These restaurants often have menus of Western and Asian cuisine, including burgers, pizza, and stir-fries. Keep in mind that eating out can be quite expensive compared to the local food.
You will be very relieved to know that as a poor backpacker, there is budget eating possible in Papua New Guinea. You find street foods easily around the country selling everything from grilled fish and meat skewers to traditional Papua New Guinean food- saksak is one, a form of fermented sago pudding. Just be sure to eat at stalls and markets that are popular with locals, as these tend to be the safest and most hygienic options.
In rural areas, you may also get a chance to try some of the traditional Papua New Guinean bush foods. These can range from everything to wild yams and sweet potatoes to bush meats like wallaby and possum. Just be sure to only eat foods that have been properly prepared and cooked, and avoid eating anything that may have been contaminated or spoiled.
It is also very important to be aware of the local etiquette and traditions when eating in Papua New Guinea. For example, there are areas where it is considered rude to eat with your left hand, as the left hand is associated with personal hygiene. Similarly, when eating with locals, wait for an invitation from the host to start eating.
Despite the many culinary delights on offer, eating in Papua New Guinea can come with some real challenges. Food hygiene is sometimes lacking, particularly in rural areas where access to clean water and sanitation may be limited. Some foods may be completely unpalatable, even to the Western palate. However, if one is open-minded and affable, he or she can really have a culinary experience of a lifetime in Papua New Guinea.
Speaking of drinks, PNG offers an array of categories to suit every taste. For those who want something cold and refreshing, coconut water is widely available, which is very appropriate to hydrate the human body under the tropical heat. For those who want something a bit stronger, Papua New Guinea offers a range of local beers, the most popular being SP Lager. However, drinking is a significant expense, and in rural areas, it may be an expensive affair due to the difficulty in accessing alcohol.
Those who have a sweet tooth will find a variety of desserts that they can try. An easily recognisable and most popular one: there is the traditional Papua New Guinea dessert known as “saksak”; basically made from fermented sago pudding and generally served with fresh fruit or nuts. Another famous one goes by the name “kina shell” cake; made from the cover of kina, some types of sea urchins, mostly covered with a sweet coconut cream sauce.
In addition to these traditional sweets, Papua New Guinea also boasts various modern bakeries and cafes; most of these are found within larger towns and cities. Within the bakeries and cafes, they can sell all kinds of delectable treats: cakes, pastries, and bread. However, bear in mind that these are more costly when compared to traditional desserts within Papua New Guinea.

Culture:

Papua New Guinea is a country with rich and diverse cultural heritage, having over 800 languages spoken and more than 1,000 ethnic groups. The culture of the country is a unique blend of traditional and modern practices, with strong community and family ties. The essence of Papua New Guinean culture is enshrined in the concept of “wantok,” which refers to sharing and reciprocity. This is reflected in the myriad of traditional ceremonies and rituals occurring throughout the country, where food and goods, as well as services, are shared among the community members.
Traditional Papua New Guinean society is based on clans and tribes, with each having its own culture, language, and customs. In many rural areas, traditional practices and customs continue to play an important role in daily life, with many communities still relying on subsistence farming and fishing to survive. In these communities, traditional rituals and ceremonies continue to be an important part of life, with events such as births, weddings, and funerals often being marked with elaborate ceremonies and feasts.
One of the most distinctive features of Papua New Guinea is traditional dress and adornment. In many rural areas, men and women still wear traditional dress, such as grass skirts, loincloths, and headdresses. These traditional garments are often made up with detailed patterns and designs, which are specific to each region and tribe. Besides traditional clothes, people of Papua New Guinea are also famous for their headwears and decorations, which are usually made from feathers, some species of shells, and other natural materials.
Music and dance also feature prominently in the culture of Papua New Guinea, with traditional songs and dances accompanying all manner of ceremonial and celebratory occasions. Traditional instruments include drums, flutes, and stringed instruments of many types. In many rural areas, traditional music and dance remain a big part of everyday life, where communities will often gather together to sing and dance.
In the last decade, Papua New Guinea has been experiencing fast modernization and urbanization, which influenced the culture of the country. Now, many young Papua New Guineans are moving into urban areas in search of educational and job opportunities, leading to a more modern and cosmopolitan culture. However, with these changes, traditional Papua New Guinean culture still survives, with many communities working to preserve and promote their unique customs and practices.
The government of the people of Papua New Guinea also recognized the importance of its preservation and promotion of its rich cultural heritage. Over the years, the government has put in place a number of initiatives towards the preservation of traditional cultures and promotion of cultural exchange. Such initiatives include the establishment of cultural festivals and events, as well as setting up cultural centers and museums.
Besides these, there are also numerous non-governmental organizations and community groups that work towards preserving and promoting Papua New Guinean culture. These usually work with the local people in developing and implementing projects on the preservation of culture, such as language documentation and cultural festivals. They also work to promote Papua New Guinean culture internationally, through cultural exchange programs and exhibitions.
Papua New Guinea is also home to a number of important cultural festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Probably the most important of these festivals is the Sing-Sing, a traditional gathering of tribes from across the country. During the Sing-Sing, participants don their most impressive traditional finery and perform traditional songs and dances. The festival is an important celebration of Papua New Guinean culture and is a popular tourist attraction.
Another important cultural festival in Papua New Guinea is the Hiri Moale Festival, which takes place in Port Moresby. The festival is a celebration of the country’s maritime culture and features traditional sailing canoes, music, and dance. The festival is an important part of Papua New Guinean cultural heritage and is a popular event among locals and tourists alike.
Besides these festivals, there are several important cultural sites and landmarks in Papua New Guinea. One of the most important sites is the National Museum and Art Gallery in Port Moresby, which features a wide range of Papua New Guinean artifacts and artworks. The museum is an important cultural institution in Papua New Guinea and is a popular tourist attraction.
Besides, Papua New Guinea has a number of important traditional villages that are quite significant for visitors in relation to the country’s rich cultural history. Among them is Tavurvur Village in East New Britain, which is famed for its very beautiful traditional architecture combined with stunning natural beauty. It is a popular tourist destination that has been availed to visitors for them to experience traditional Papua New Guinean culture.

Accommodations:

Papua New Guinea is definitely not for the faint of heart. It’s a place to which the adventurous and bold come to have a truly unique experience. When it comes to accommodations, the hostel situation in Papua New Guinea is no exception.
For broke backpackers, Papua New Guinea can be somewhat of a daunting destination. The cost of living is reasonably high, and the accommodations can sometimes be expensive. But for those who take a chance and make a booking with the cheapest options, the reward can often be immense.
When you book a budget hostel in Papua New Guinea, you’re not simply booking a bed: you’re buying an experience. You are getting the opportunity to engage with the locals and their way of life, meet fellow travelers who are just as adventurous as you, and sleep in some of the most unique and crazy hostels you’ll ever have come across.
These are usually family-run hostels, and the owners and the staff are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. They’ll invite you to join them for meals, to participate in traditional ceremonies, and to explore the local area with them.
These hostels are simple and rustic in most ways, charmingly so. You may sleep in a dormitory-style room that doesn’t have any windows or share a bathroom with a dozen other travelers. But while rough around the edges, these hostels have a certain appeal that’s just not as readily found in higher-scale establishments.
Then there are the other travelers: Papua New Guinea is not for the faint of heart, so the people you meet in these hostels are often some of the most interesting and adventurous travelers you’ll ever meet. You’ll hear stories of their journeys, about challenges they’ve faced, and the incredible experiences they’ve had.
You could meet a solo traveler who has been on the road for months or a couple traveling around the world. You could meet a group of friends on a mission to explore every corner of Papua New Guinea or a lone adventurer in search of the most remote and inaccessible destinations.
Whatever the case, persons met in these hostels will be some of the most fascinating and inspiring individuals you will ever meet. They will share their stories with you, share their advice, and experiences; thus, you will leave Papua New Guinea with a fresh look and appreciation of the world and its many wonders.
So, if you’re a broke backpacker looking for a unique and amazing experience in Papua New Guinea, don’t be afraid to book the cheapest hostel option you can find. It might not be the most luxurious or comfortable place to stay, but it will be an experience you’ll never forget. You’ll meet incredible people, have amazing experiences, and get a glimpse into a way of life that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
In Papua New Guinea, the hostel situation is not just about finding a place to sleep, it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture and having an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. So don’t be afraid to take a chance and book that cheap hostel. You never know what amazing experiences and memories you’ll create.
As you make your way around the hostels in Papua New Guinea, you will start to realize that the country is a journey rather than a destination. A journey of discovery, of exploration, of immersion. It’s one that will challenge you and inspire you, leaving you with newfound appreciation for the world and its many wonders.
If you’re ready for the most exciting lifetime experience, if you want to get up close with unique and very captivating culture, or if you want to encounter probably the greatest people ever, Papua New Guinea will be a fantastic place. And don’t hesitate when looking around for somewhere to sleep, because that can easily be done at probably the cheapest option out of hostels you could find. It might just be the best decision you’ll ever make.

Nightlife:

Papua New Guinea is a country that is often misunderstood by travelers. While it’s true that the country has a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, the reality is that Papua New Guinea has a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene that’s just waiting to be explored.
As the sun sets over the mountains and the cities come alive, Papua New Guinea becomes a whole different world. The streets are filled with the sound of laughter and music, and the smell of fresh food wafts through the air. It’s a time when the locals let their hair down and come out to play, and visitors are welcomed with open arms.
The best thing that happens to nightlife in Papua New Guinea is the friendliness and sense of community at every gathering. Whether in a crowded bar or tiny village, locals always try to include you in the fun. You will be dancing with strangers, telling stories with newfound friends, and laughing till your belly hurts.
Of course, not every night in Papua New Guinea involves quietly staying in with your friends. There’s everything here: from noisy bars to night clubs open till morning. You can be taken to live DJs, local bands playing traditional tunes, or sometimes just an impromptu sing-along.
But what really makes Papua New Guinea stand out from the crowd is the peculiar cultural background in which all the nightlife happens. The country holds a rich and varied cultural heritage, with more than 800 languages spoken and over 1,000 ethnic groups. This variety extends to the nightlife, where different regions and communities have their own peculiar traditions and customs.
As you explore the nightlife in Papua New Guinea, you’ll begin to appreciate the complexity and richness of the country’s cultural landscape. You’ll see traditional dancers performing in modern bars, hear local musicians playing Western-style instruments, and experience the unique blend of traditional and modern culture that defines Papua New Guinea.
With all the wonders of nightlife in Papua New Guinea, one must remember that it is not the easiest country to travel through. Infrastructure is often minimal, and safety concerns do arise in certain areas. However, with a little planning and caution, it is completely possible to have a safe and enjoyable nightlife experience in Papua New Guinea.
In fact, the best thing about nightlife in Papua New Guinea is the feeling of adventure that you get when you are moving around in a new and unfamiliar territory. Whether taking in the crowded streets of Port Moresby or dancing the night away in a remote village, you will always feel like you’re experiencing something new and exciting.
As the night wears on and the music louder, you will be swept up in the infectious energy of Papua New Guinea’s nightlife. You will dance with strangers, sing along to traditional songs, and experience the unique cultural heritage of this incredible country. And when the sun finally rises over the mountains, you’ll know that you’ve experienced something truly special – the nightlife of Papua New Guinea.
The colonial past strongly influences the nightlife of the country, with many bars and clubs playing both traditional and Western music. You might hear a local band playing a traditional song, followed by a DJ spinning the latest Western hits. This blend of cultures is what characterizes nightlife in Papua New Guinea, and it is something different from other destinations.
By night, Papua New Guinea has a different life, but that gives you a great opportunity to try all the unique local drinks of the country-from traditional beers made from fermented fruits and grains to modern cocktails with the inclusion of local flavors and ingredients. With the emphasis on community and sharing, you’re often drinking with and socializing with locals, who are always happy to share culture and traditions with visitors.
But, besides its vivid nightlife, Papua New Guinea also has a number of unique and interesting cultural events and festivals. From the famous Sing-Sing festivals, which showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, to the more modern events like the Papua New Guinea Music Festival, there’s always something happening in the country’s nightlife scene.
And by the time the night wears on and the music gets louder, it is definitely infectious. Dancing with strangers, singing along to the traditional songs, you feel the culture of this incredible country. And when the sun finally rises over the mountains, you’ll know that you’ve experienced something truly special-the nightlife of Papua New Guinea.
The nightlife of the country is also attached with the traditional culture and customs of the land. Nightlife in most rural areas is part of the community way of life, where people come together in the evenings to socialize, tell stories, and enjoy traditional music and dance.

Backpacking Papua New Guinea costs:

Daily Expenses

Accommodation: $5-10 per night for a basic hostel or guesthouse, or $10-15 per night for a slightly better option
Food: $3-5 per meal for street food or local eateries, or $5-10 per meal for mid-range restaurants
Transportation: $1-3 per ride for public transportation, or $5-10 per day for renting a bike
Activities: $5-10 per person for entrance fees to national parks or cultural attractions
Miscellaneous: $2-5 per day for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals

Total daily budget: $15-30 per day

Weekly Expenses

Accommodation: $35-70 per week for a basic hostel or guesthouse, or $70-105 per week for a slightly better option
Food: $21-35 per week for street food or local eateries, or $35-70 per week for mid-range restaurants
Transportation: $7-21 per week for public transportation, or $35-70 per week for renting a bike
Activities: $35-70 per week for entrance fees to national parks or cultural attractions
Miscellaneous: $14-35 per week for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals

Total weekly budget: $105-245 per week

To stay within this budget, consider the following tips:

Stay in basic hostels or guesthouses, or consider camping or Couchsurfing
Eat street food or cook your own meals instead of eating at mid-range restaurants
Use public transportation or rent a bike instead of taking taxis or renting cars
Avoid touristy areas and opt for free or low-cost activities instead of expensive tours or attractions
Bargain and negotiate prices for accommodations, transportation, and activities

By being mindful of your expenses and making a few sacrifices, you can have a great time exploring Papua New Guinea on a budget of $15-30 per day.

Conclusion:

By the end of your broke adventure through Papua New Guinea, you will most likely look back on your experiences with a mixture of awe, wonder, and maybe a few battle scars. Broke backpacking in Papua New Guinea is not for the faint of heart, but if one does take the leap, then the rewards are immeasurable.
From the sheer beauty of the Highlands down to the vibrant cultural scenes of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea will have you exploring breathlessly and wanting for more. And despite the challenges that come from traveling on a budget, you will find that the people, the places, and the experiences you have along the way will make every sacrifice worth it.
As you reflect on your journey, you’ll realize that broke backpacking in Papua New Guinea is not just about saving money or seeing sights – it’s about immersing yourself in a culture that is both familiar and foreign, and allowing yourself to be transformed by the experience.
So, if you are thinking about taking a broke backpacking journey through Papua New Guinea, let nothing like fear and uncertainty be the reason for turning back. Approach it with an open mind, ready to take risks-a healthy dose of humor will carry you far-and you shall find that this amazing country is able to alter you in ways you never thought imaginable.