Need to know
Port Moresby is the capital of Papua New Guinea and the largest city in the South Pacific. The island city has changed considerably since the arrival of its English namesake, Captain John Moresby, in 1873.
There are many beautiful natural attractions in the area surrounding Port Moresby, including its beaches and bays with stunning ocean vistas. Scuba dive through brightly coloured coral reefs and wrecks at nearby Loloata Island or head to at Port Moresby Nature Park to walk through over 2 km of walkways knitted under and through the jungle canopy and spot native wildlife such as tree kangaroos, hornbills and cassowaries. You can also get close to nature and enjoy a better understanding of the island’s history by hiking through rainforest, valleys and by mountain streams along the legendary 96 km trail known as the Kokoda Track.
Those hoping to get a glimpse of traditional Motu culture should consider visiting villages such as Hanuabada and Elevala, while Ela Beach Craft Market and Boroko Market are both great places to find and purchase local artworks, crafts and souvenirs. Be sure to set aside some time to check out the fascinating architecture of Parliament Haus, from its lizard skin door handles to its glass displays of the nation’s astonishing native insects.
Getting around
Hiring a car is the best way to see all of Port Moresby, however, the roads turn into muddy trails the further out you drive, so a 4x4 is advised for long trips. Most attractions in the city are quite spread out, so walking isn’t always an option. You can enjoy walking along the beach and market areas, but most travellers find they do need to use another, more efficient mode of transport. There are lots of taxis available, but it is important to remember that they don’t use meters, so it can be hard to agree on a price. Be sure to book taxis through your hotel to ensure they are safe.
Port Moresby has a very tropical climate so it is generally hot and humid all year round, with the temperature mainly staying between 23 and 34 degrees.
Port Moresby has two distinct seasons - the wet season from December to March and the dry season from May to October. June to September are the best times to visit as the city’s warm and humid climate is easier to tolerate.
Jacksons International Airport
Established in 1946, Jacksons International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Papua New Guinea. The airport is also known as Port Moresby Airport and can be found 8 km outside Port Moresby. Flights make their way to Jacksons International Airport from a wide selection of destinations including Brisbane, Singapore, Cairns and Manila. Cairns, Brisbane and Darwin all offer direct flights from Australia to Port Moresby.
