Port Moresby

Pom City

The capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea, serving as the country's economic and political hub. It offers museums, markets, and colonial architecture along with a vibrant expat community and essential services for travelers.

Things to do

• National Museum & Art Gallery — Explore Papua New Guinea's cultural heritage, traditional artifacts, and contemporary art housed in this institution near the Parliament House.
• Bomana War Cemetery — Visit this solemn memorial to World War II servicemen with sweeping views over Port Moresby and manicured gardens.
• Kokoda Track Memorial — Pay respects at this outdoor monument dedicated to the soldiers of the Kokoda Campaign, with informative plaques and peaceful surroundings.
• Port Moresby Nature Park — Encounter native Papua New Guinea wildlife including birds of paradise, tree kangaroos, and crocodiles in a controlled sanctuary setting.
• Varirata National Park — Hike through rainforest with panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline, approximately 40 kilometers from central Port Moresby.
• Central Market — Browse fresh tropical produce, local handicrafts, and traditional goods while experiencing authentic local commerce and culture.
• Parliament House — View the distinctive architecture of Papua New Guinea's legislative building, set in landscaped grounds in the city center.

Food to try

• Mumu — A traditional earth-oven meal featuring pork, chicken, or fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground with sweet potato and taro.
• Sago Pancakes — Starchy flatbreads made from sago starch, typically served with sweet or savory toppings for breakfast or snacks.
• Fresh Barramundi — Locally caught freshwater or saltwater barramundi prepared grilled or fried, reflecting the nation's abundant fish resources.
• Coconut Crab Curry — Tender coconut crab meat simmered in a spiced coconut-based curry sauce, a delicacy found in upscale restaurants and local eateries.
• Betel Nut — A mildly stimulating nut wrapped in betel leaf and lime that locals chew socially; widely available but an acquired taste for visitors.
• Tropical Fruit Smoothies — Refreshing drinks blending fresh pawpaw, pineapple, mango, and passion fruit available from street vendors and cafés.

Local customs & good to know

• Security Awareness — Port Moresby has high crime rates in certain areas; stay in established tourist zones, avoid walking alone after dark, and use trusted transportation services.
• Respectful Photography — Always ask permission before photographing locals or cultural events, as some people and sacred sites consider unauthorized photography disrespectful.
• Informal Settlements — Avoid wandering into informal settlements or squatter communities; these areas are off-limits to tourists and can pose safety risks.
• Dress Conservatively — While Port Moresby is more cosmopolitan than rural areas, wearing modest clothing shows respect for local customs and reduces unwanted attention.

Nearby

• Village Craft Market — 1 km
• Freedom Square — 1 km
• Papua New Guinea National Museum — 1 km
• Hanuabada Village (National Capital District) — 1 km