Travel advice for Papua New Guinea

The perception that outsiders have of Papua New Guinea basically remains unchanged over the years. According to the Australian Government, a friend and close neighbour, PNG remains a violent, dangerous and extremely risky country to travel. Is this only perception or is there some truth to this? I have always said that PNG is all of these things – much of the violence stemming from the tribal nature of its people (instant justice) and the fact that Papua New Guinea(ns) continues to be abused and violated by the ruling elite despite clinching to independence over 30 years ago. Imposed poverty breeds social unrest.

Having said all of the above – PNG is a special place. One of the last countries on Earth where tribal protocol, custom and the “old” ways prevail. A country with more humanity, interaction and friendliness than what you will find elsewhere. Tribal folks lived in balance with their environment for tens of thousands of years, in harmony with mother nature. Here we are the “smart” ones, the technocrats and the corporates – a whole planet on the brink of collapse after only 100 years of industrialisation.

As published on the Australian Government Smart Traveller website…

The Travel Advice for PNG has been reviewed and reissued as at 27 October 2008. It contains new information under Safety and Security: Local Travel (update), and Entry and Exit Requirements (quarantine restrictions). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

Summary

• We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Papua New Guinea because of the high levels of serious crime.
• Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
• Crime rates are high in the capital Port Moresby and in other areas of Papua New Guinea, especially in Lae, Mt Hagen and other parts of the Highland provinces.
• Local land and compensation disputes occasionally lead to threats by landowners to close the Kokoda Track. When walking the Kokoda Track, Australians are advised to travel only with guides from reputable trekking companies. See the Local Travel section for more advice and information.

For additional travel advice for Australians on Papua New Guinea visit the Smart Traveller website at: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/