Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

A visit to the Port Moresby Nature Park is a must-do for nature lovers. Just a short drive from the port, this beautifully maintained park is home to a superb collection of native animals, including tree kangaroos, cassowaries, and several species of the magnificent bird-of-paradise. The park also features an extensive collection of native orchids and other flora.

To delve into the nation's incredible cultural diversity, head to the National Museum and Art Gallery. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, carvings, and textiles from the many different ethnic groups across Papua New Guinea's 22 provinces. It provides a fascinating insight into the country's rich heritage.

For history buffs, the Bomana War Cemetery is a moving and immaculately kept site. Located about a 30-minute drive from the city center, it is the final resting place for thousands of Allied soldiers who died during the New Guinea campaign in World War II. It serves as a poignant reminder of the region's history.

A popular day trip is to Varirata National Park, Papua New Guinea's first national park, located about an hour's drive from the city. It offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, excellent birdwatching opportunities to spot the famous birds-of-paradise, and well-marked hiking trails through the rainforest.

For a coastal escape, Loloata Island Resort is a private island accessible via a short bus and ferry ride from the mainland. It's a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving in the clear waters, or simply relaxing on the beach away from the city's hustle.

Another nearby area of interest is the Sogeri Plateau, an elevated region that is the starting point for the historic Kokoda Track. The scenic drive itself offers cooler temperatures and a look at the lush, mountainous interior of the country.

The cruise port in Port Moresby is located at the main commercial wharf, situated right in the downtown area. While geographically close to the city's business district, the immediate port area is industrial and lacks passenger amenities like shops or cafes.

Due to security considerations in the city, passengers are strongly discouraged from walking out of the port gates independently. Cruise lines almost always provide shuttle services or organized tours to transport guests safely to key attractions or designated secure locations. Ships typically dock directly at the wharf, but depending on port traffic and the ship's size, tendering may occasionally be required.

The official currency of Papua New Guinea is the Kina (PGK). While some major hotels or pre-booked tour operators may accept US Dollars, it is not common practice, and you should not rely on it. It is highly recommended to have Kina for any local purchases, especially at markets.

ATMs are available in the city, but it's best to use those located inside banks or major shopping centers for security. Currency exchange services can be found at the international airport and major banks. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, some restaurants, and modern shops, but cash is essential for most other transactions.

Port Moresby has a reputation for high crime rates, and visitors must exercise a high degree of caution. It is strongly recommended that cruise passengers only explore the city on official shore excursions organized by the cruise line or a reputable tour operator.

Independent exploration, especially on foot, is not advised. Avoid displaying valuables such as expensive cameras, jewelry, or large amounts of cash. Stick to main roads and well-known tourist areas, and do not venture into residential settlements or walk around after dark. By taking guided tours, passengers can safely experience the highlights of this intriguing city.

Port Moresby has a tropical climate that is hot and humid throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The city experiences a distinct wet season from December to May and a relatively drier season from June to November, which is when most cruises visit.

Even during the dry season, brief tropical showers can occur, so packing a light rain jacket is a good idea. Lightweight, breathable clothing made of cotton or linen is essential, along with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Strong insect repellent is also a must-have for any outdoor excursions.

For cruise passengers, the safest and most reliable way to get around Port Moresby is through organized shore excursions. Cruise lines provide buses that take guests directly to attractions and back to the ship.

While taxis are available, you must negotiate the fare before starting your journey, and it's best to use vehicles recommended by a trusted source. The local public transport consists of Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs), which are small buses or trucks. These are generally not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns and overcrowding. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft do not operate in Port Moresby.

The best shopping opportunities for cruise passengers are the craft markets that are often set up near the port or at major tourist sites on ship days. Here, you can find a wonderful array of authentic local handicrafts. Look for intricately woven string bags called bilums, which are a national icon.

Other popular souvenirs include carved storyboards depicting local legends, tribal masks, pottery, and shell jewelry. The gift shop at the Port Moresby Nature Park is also an excellent place for high-quality, authentic crafts. In local markets, polite haggling is acceptable and expected. For a more modern shopping experience, the Vision City Mega Mall offers fixed-price stores, a supermarket, and food courts.