Port Moresby Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Port Moresby.
Healthcare System
Papua New Guinea's public healthcare system is under-resourced and faces significant challenges. In Port Moresby, private medical facilities offer a better standard of care but are still limited compared to Western or regional Asian standards. Critical or complex conditions typically require medical evacuation.
Hospitals
Pacific International Hospital (PIH) is the main private hospital used by expatriates and tourists. Port Moresby General Hospital is the public hospital and should be considered only as a last resort due to severe overcrowding and resource constraints. For any serious issue, medical evacuation is the standard protocol.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (often called 'chemists') are available in shopping centers like Vision City and Boroko. They stock basic medications, but brand availability is inconsistent. Always travel with a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you require, along with a copy of the prescription and a doctor's letter.
Insurance
COMPULSORY. Complete travel insurance with a high-limit medical evacuation clause to Australia or Singapore is an absolute non-negotiable requirement for visiting Port Moresby. Proof of insurance may be requested on arrival.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a complete medical kit including antibiotics, anti-diarrheal, rehydration salts, and strong insect repellent.
- Ensure all routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, etc.) are up to date and consider Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis. Malaria prophylaxis is essential for Port Moresby.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Opportunistic armed robberies, often involving knives or firearms, can occur anywhere, including in vehicles stopped at traffic lights ('carjacking') and in shopping center parking lots. Criminals often target visibly wealthy individuals or foreigners.
Quick-grab theft of bags, phones, and wallets is extremely common, often perpetrated by individuals on foot or from moving vehicles.
Violent crime by criminal gangs (locally referred to as 'raskols') is a serious problem. Home invasions, armed hold-ups, and sexual assault are significant risks, after dark.
Road conditions are poor, with potholes, inadequate lighting, and erratic driving. Drunk driving is common, on weekends. Pedestrians have no right of way.
Port Moresby is a malaria transmission area. Dengue fever is also present and transmitted by mosquitoes.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as police officers stop vehicles, often at night or on isolated roads, to 'check documents' or 'investigate a crime.' Their goal is to extort money or rob the occupants.
One person distracts you (asking for directions, causing a minor commotion) while an accomplice steals your wallet, bag, or items from your car or table.
An overly friendly stranger in a bar or social setting may offer a drink that has been spiked with drugs, leading to robbery or assault.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation
- Arrange all airport transfers through your hotel or a reputable company in advance. Do not use unmarked taxis.
- Never use public motor vehicles (PMVs - public buses) or walk as a means of transport.
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows up at all times when moving.
Accommodation & Daily Life
- Choose accommodation in secure compounds with 24/7 guards, gated access, and perimeter walls (e.g., hotels in downtown, Waigani, or near the airport).
- Do not venture out on foot, even for short distances. Always use a car for even the shortest trip.
- Keep a low profile. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches, and use discreet bags for cameras/electronics.
Money & Documents
- Carry only small amounts of cash (PGK) needed for the day. Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables.
- Be discreet when withdrawing money from ATMs, which should ideally be located inside shopping malls or banks during daylight hours.
- Carry photocopies of your passport and visa separately from the originals. Email digital copies to yourself.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers face significantly higher risks, including verbal harassment and a serious threat of sexual assault. Solo female travel is strongly discouraged. Extreme vigilance and conservative, security-focused behavior are essential.
- Do not travel alone under any circumstances. Always be accompanied by a trusted male colleague, guide, or in a group.
- Avoid bars and clubs entirely unless in a secure hotel and with a known group.
- Never accept rides, drinks, or invitations from strangers.
- Use hotel room service rather than going out for meals alone.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Male homosexual activity is illegal under PNG law, with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment. The law is rarely enforced against foreigners, but it provides a legal basis for discrimination and harassment. There are no legal protections against discrimination.
- Exercise extreme discretion. Avoid any public displays of affection or discussions of sexual orientation.
- Be cautious on dating apps, as they can be used to entrap or target individuals.
- Same-sex couples should avoid sharing a room in smaller, family-run guesthouses; larger international hotels are generally more discreet.
Travel Insurance
It is absolutely critical due to the limited local medical facilities and the high likelihood that a serious illness or injury will require a medically-equipped evacuation flight to Australia (Cairns/Brisbane) or Singapore.
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