Papua New Guinea Travel Tips

Traveling in Papua, New Guinea:

Papua, New Guinea (PNG) is a land of incredible diversity and beauty. However, navigating the diverse cultures within PNG can be challenging for visitors.

Here are some key travel & cultural etiquette tips for tourists:

General Etiquette:

  • Respect local customs:

    • Dress modestly: In many parts of Papua, New Guinea, people dress in traditional ways, often with minimal clothing. As a visitor, it’s important to dress respectfully, especially when visiting villages or rural areas. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly flashy clothing.
    • Ask for permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, ceremonies, or homes.
    • Seek cultural immersion: Papua New Guinea is a fascinating place to learn about different cultures. Be respectful and curious when interacting with locals, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their traditions and way of life.

  • Greetings: A handshake is the most common greeting for men. Women often greet each other with a smile and nod or a wave. It’s best to ask before initiating any physical contact with a local person, especially if you are not sure of their cultural background.

  • Gifts: Small gifts are always appreciated when visiting a village.

    • Consider bringing gifts like school supplies, clothes, or tools, but avoid anything that could be perceived as a charity handout.

    • Consult with your guide or tour operator about appropriate gifts for the specific community you’re visiting.

    • Bringing locally produced goods (crafts, food items) is usually preferred.

  • Respecting Traditions:

    • Ask your guide about any cultural sensitivities regarding photography, dress codes, interactions with children or elders, and traditional practices of the villages you visit.

Specific Cultural Practices:

  • Traditional Dress: It’s important to be aware that customs and traditions vary widely across different tribes in PNG. Some may welcome visitors with open arms, while others are more reserved.

    • Respecting these cultural differences is crucial for a positive and culturally sensitive experience.

  • “Hausman” (Men’s House):

    In many cultures of Papua New Guinea, it is considered disrespectful to enter a “hausman”, which is a traditional communal house for men.

    • These are often off-limits to women and children**. Be sure to ask your guide about local customs, as they may vary by village.

Other Tips:

  • Learn some basic Tok Pisin: This is the lingua franca of PNG, meaning it’s a common language spoken across different ethnic groups. A simple “hello” (“olgeta” in Tok Pisin), “thank you” (“tankyu”) or “thank you thank you” (“tank yu tru”) will go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture.

  • Be mindful of your belongings: Petty theft can occur, so it’s best to be vigilant with your valuables and avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry or cameras openly.

  • Ask for permission before entering homes or villages:

    Respecting personal space is crucial in Papua New Guinea. It’s a good idea to ask your guide about the appropriate way to approach a village elder for advice or information on local customs and traditions.

  • Bargain respectfully: When purchasing goods from local vendors, bargaining is common practice. Aim for a price that is fair to both you and the seller, and remember that

    • Prices in PNG are often negotiable.

Safety Tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: While PNG is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to be aware of potential risks like petty theft or scams.
  • Travel with a reputable tour operator: This can help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip by providing
    • guidance on local safety practices and trusted contacts.

Respect the Environment:

  • Follow “Leave No Trace” principles: Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
  • Support sustainable tourism practices: Choose tours and accommodations that prioritize eco-friendly initiatives and responsible interactions with the environment and wildlife.

Remember:

  • Always ask for permission before taking photos, as it’s a sign of respect towards local culture.

Following these tips will help you to avoid unintentional cultural faux pas and ensure your trip to Papua, New Guinea is respectful and enriching.

It’s important to note that this information is general in nature. While the tips above are helpful for understanding some basic social norms in PNG, remember that:

  • Every village has its own customs.
  • Respecting local culture means understanding that these customs may be different from what you are used to.

Always approach interactions with a smile and genuine curiosity, and your efforts will be appreciated.