7 recommended tourist attractions in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, was named after British naval officer John Moresby, who was the first Briton to visit the area. It is a port city facing Papua Bay, with natural gas and natural rubber among its primary exports. The surrounding islands are popular for activities such as diving and safaris, making the city a key hub for tropical tourism, attracting many visitors.

Port Moresby has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from December to May and a dry season for the rest of the year. Temperatures generally remain above 25°C throughout the year, and the annual rainfall is approximately 1,000 mm. Now, let's explore some of the top tourist attractions in Port Moresby.

1. Varirata National Park

Located in the suburbs of Port Moresby, Varirata National Park is known as a paradise for birdwatchers. If you love birdwatching, this is a must-visit attraction. Visitors can spot kingfishers, wallabies, cuscuses (marsupials), and other unique wildlife. The park is also famous for being home to the bird-of-paradise, which is featured on the Papua New Guinea national flag. If you visit during the breeding season, you may witness their spectacular courtship dance, where they spread their vibrant feathers.

The park offers four well-maintained trekking routes with several lookout points where you can enjoy panoramic views of Port Moresby and the ocean. If you're staying in Port Moresby, don't miss a trip to Varirata National Park.

2. Adventure Park Papua New Guinea　

Adventure Park PNG, located on the outskirts of Port Moresby, is home to a variety of Papua New Guinea's unique animals, including the bird-of-paradise, tree kangaroos, pelicans, and giant crocodiles. It offers a fascinating experience where you can observe animals that wouldn't naturally coexist in the wild. One of the highlights is the opportunity to see over ten different species of the magnificent bird-of-paradise up close, making it a popular destination for tourists from Port Moresby.

For those who love flowers and nature, the park also features an orchid garden showcasing a variety of orchids native to Papua New Guinea. If you're a nature enthusiast, this is a must-visit attraction in Port Moresby.

3. Papua New Guinea Parliament House

Papua New Guinea has a strong tradition of animism, a belief that spirits reside in all things in nature. Many villages have a central "Spirit House" that serves as a place of spiritual and communal importance. Inspired by this concept, the Papua New Guinea Parliament House was constructed in 1984.

The exterior of the building is adorned with cave-painting-style art, giving it an unconventional yet striking appearance. Inside, you can find portraits of historical figures who have played significant roles in Papua New Guinea’s history. The interior spans four floors, featuring intricate wall and ceiling decorations that create a mysterious and unique atmosphere.

Visitors can also observe the parliamentary chamber from the second floor when sessions are in progress. The debates are translated into multiple languages, including English, allowing visitors to listen in on the discussions. If you have the opportunity, attending a session at the Parliament House could be a fascinating experience.

4. Papua New Guinea National Museum and Art Gallery

The National Museum and Art Gallery in Port Moresby is an essential stop for anyone wanting to learn about the rich history and culture of Papua New Guinea. The museum houses over 30,000 traditional artifacts collected from across the country, ranging from small accessories to large seafaring canoes. Additionally, it displays archaeological finds dating back 50,000 years, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

The museum also has an art section, featuring works by local artists from Port Moresby and beyond. In the modern history section, visitors can learn about Papua New Guinea's colonial history and its role in World War II.

5. Papua New Guinea National Orchid Garden

The National Orchid Garden is a botanical garden dedicated to cultivating orchids native to Papua New Guinea. No matter what time of year you visit, you can always admire the stunning orchids in full bloom, making it a popular destination for tourists. The garden was originally established by Justin Tkatchenko, a well-known politician, television personality, and landscaper in Papua New Guinea.

In addition to its beautifully maintained orchid gardens, visitors can also spot rare wild birds in the area. The garden is home to colorful parrots and the Victoria Crowned Pigeon, the world’s largest pigeon species. This makes it a great place for bird lovers as well. If you’re staying in Port Moresby, this is a must-visit attraction.

6. Loloata Island

Loloata Island is a small island located southeast of Port Moresby. It is easily accessible—just a 30-minute drive from Port Moresby, followed by a 20-minute boat ride. The island is small enough that you can walk around it in about an hour, making it a perfect escape into nature.

Despite its size, Loloata Island is home to wallabies, peacocks, and tree kangaroos, offering visitors a chance to see these fascinating animals up close. However, the island is especially popular among divers, as it offers some of the best diving experiences in Papua New Guinea. The Loloata Island Resort, the island's only hotel, has a dive shop where visitors can arrange diving tours. If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway near Port Moresby, Loloata Island is a great option. Make sure to take the time to visit this hidden paradise.

7. Kokoda Track

Also known as the Kokoda Trail, this historic route was originally developed by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II as a path to advance towards Port Moresby. Stretching 96 km from the inland village of Kokoda at the base of Mount Victoria, it crosses the Stanley Range, reaching Owers' Corner, just 30 km from Port Moresby. The Kokoda Track was infamous for its harsh conditions, often referred to as the "Death March," as it claimed the lives of many soldiers.

Today, the trail is gaining popularity as a historical trekking route, attracting tourists interested in World War II history. Along the trail, visitors can see abandoned military sites, weapons, and memorials. Many Japanese and Australian soldiers who fought here remain buried in the dense jungle. The full trek takes several days and is considered highly challenging. However, there are shorter trekking options for those who want to experience part of the trail without committing to the full journey. If you are interested in wartime history, visiting the Kokoda Track is a powerful and immersive experience.

Summary of tourist attractions in Port Moresby

In this guide, we introduced some of the top tourist attractions in Port Moresby. The city is best known for its nature parks, where you can see rare birds and exotic wildlife, including the bird-of-paradise, which is featured on Papua New Guinea’s national flag.

Beyond nature, Port Moresby also offers historical sites, museums, gardens, and diving experiences. There are also great food spots, shopping centers, churches, and mosques to explore. However, it is important to note that Port Moresby is not the safest city. Tourists should avoid walking alone and take appropriate safety precautions. By planning wisely and staying aware, you can enjoy all the amazing sights and experiences this city has to offer.

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7 recommended tourist attractions in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea