Gude! Papua New Guinea is only a short distance from the northern tip of Queensland. Its capital of Port Moresby is approximately 1 hour flight from Cairns and 2.5 hours from Brisbane.
Most of the country is covered by tropical rainforests, towering mountain peaks and wild rivers. There is, however, another side to this spectacular country – an undersea world of great beauty and adventure. Papua New Guinea offers world class diving with a staggering choice of unspoiled dive sites. This unique destination includes vibrant coral reefs, World War II ship and aircraft wrecks, sunken live volcanoes and a massive array of marine life in crystal clear waters.
Wherever you dive in Papua New Guinea, there is something new to see. Many of the bays and islands have rarely been dived before, so each trip can become a personal journey of discovery.
Dive Destinations In Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Liveaboards
General Information
- Entry Requirements
- Money
- Language
- Electricity
- Time Zone
- Clothing
- Climate
- Water Temperature
- Departure Tax
- Tipping
All visitors require a visa. In Australia visas are available from their consular offices in Canberra or Brisbane – visa forms can be downloaded below. Visas can also be obtained on arrival (payable in Kina only) but this is not recommended as transit times can be short and planes can be delayed. The current visa fee is $35 AUD.
For more information and for holders of other passports, please refer to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website for the latest travel advice.
The Kina (PGK) is the unit of currency. One Australian Dollar is worth approximately 2 Kina. There are ATMs in Port Moresby Airport and in the major towns, and foreign currency can be exchanged at Port Moresby Airport or in town. Most resorts accept major credit cards and may charge a fee.
English and Pidgin are the official languages, however hundreds of local dialects are spoken in the provinces.
220-240V and uses the Australian plug type.
GMT + 10 (same time as Sydney).
Light casual clothing is recommended. Women should dress moderately in public places. Please note that some bars and restaurants will not allow thongs, sneakers or sandshoes.
Equatorial – humid year-round with average air temperature of 28°C. The dry season is from May to December.
Around 28°C in most parts of the country, however can be as low as 25°C near Port Moresby.
Included in airfares as at 15 April 2019
Tipping is generally not expected or encouraged. However, if you would like to tip, please give to the hotel or dive centre manager to be distributed amongst all staff.