Port Moresby

Pot Moresby

The capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea, serving as the nation's economic and administrative hub. Despite security concerns in some areas, the city offers museums, markets, waterfront dining, and serves as the gateway for most visitors to the country.

Things to do

• National Museum & Art Gallery — Explore Papua New Guinea's cultural heritage through artifacts, traditional masks, and contemporary Pacific art displayed in this central museum.
• Waigani Lookout — Visit this elevated vantage point offering panoramic views of Port Moresby's cityscape, harbor, and surrounding hills.
• Bomana War Cemetery — Pay respects at this solemn memorial to those who died in World War II, set in manicured gardens with historical significance.
• Ela Beach — Relax at this popular waterfront spot with calm waters, dining options, and views of the Coral Sea, best visited during daylight hours.
• Port Moresby Markets — Experience vibrant local commerce at markets like Boroko and Koki where vendors sell fresh tropical produce, crafts, and everyday goods.
• Parliament House — Admire the distinctive architecture of Papua New Guinea's legislative building, designed to reflect traditional local design principles.

Food to try

• Mumu — A traditional slow-cooked feast of local meats, vegetables, and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves and steamed underground or in large pots.
• Sago and Fish — A staple combination of starchy sago prepared with locally caught reef or river fish, often prepared with coconut cream and served at markets and casual eateries.
• Coconut Crab — A local delicacy featuring the massive terrestrial coconut crab, typically prepared grilled or in coconut-based curries at upscale waterfront restaurants.
• Taro and Greens — Starchy taro root combined with leafy greens and often cooked in coconut milk, representing a common everyday vegetable dish across PNG.
• Betel Nut (Buai) — A mildly stimulating and culturally significant preparation of areca nut wrapped in betel leaf with lime, commonly chewed throughout the city as a social custom.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Personal Safety — Avoid walking alone after dark, use registered taxis or hotel transport, and stay in established tourist areas; petty theft and armed robbery do occur in certain neighborhoods.
• Acknowledge Local Customs — Remove shoes when entering homes, ask permission before photographing people or cultural events, and dress modestly in public spaces away from tourist zones.
• Pidgin English is Spoken — While English is official, Tok Pisin is widely used; learning a few basic phrases shows respect and aids communication in markets and casual settings.
• Sunday Observance — Many businesses close on Sundays and church attendance is culturally important; plan activities accordingly and be respectful of religious observances.

Nearby

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