Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Port Moresby
Experience authentic local culture on a shoestring budget with hostels, street food, and public transport
Daily Budget: $53-140 per day
Complete breakdown of costs for budget/backpacker travel in Port Moresby
Accommodation
$25-60 per night
Basic guesthouses, budget lodges, and shared facilities in residential areas
Food & Dining
$15-35 per day
Local markets, street food vendors, basic cafeterias, and self-catering
Transportation
$8-20 per day
Public buses (PMVs), shared taxis, and walking for short distances
Activities
$5-25 per day
Free beaches, local markets, hiking trails, and occasional museum visits
Currency: PGK Papua New Guinea Kina (prices shown in USD equivalent for international travelers)
Budget/Backpacker Activities in Port Moresby
Curated experiences perfect for your budget/backpacker travel style
Money-Saving Tips
Eat at local markets and street vendors instead of hotel restaurants (typically 60-80% cheaper)
Use public PMV buses instead of taxis for regular transport (saves 70-85% on daily transport costs)
Book accommodation in residential areas rather than tourist zones (typically 30-50% lower rates)
Shop at local markets for snacks and water instead of hotel shops (usually 200-300% markup avoided)
Join group tours instead of private tours (generally 40-60% cost reduction per person)
Visit free attractions like beaches and hiking trails to balance paid activities
Book accommodation and tours during low season for significant discounts
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
Relying solely on taxis and avoiding public transport (increases daily transport costs by 300-500%)
Eating exclusively at hotel restaurants and tourist areas (typically doubles food expenses)
Booking last-minute accommodation during peak periods (usually 50-100% price premium)
Not researching free activities and overspending on paid attractions daily