Capital city in National Capital District, Papua New Guinea
Port Moresby for solo travelers
Is Port Moresby good for solo travel?
Papua New Guinea's capital and gateway to Kokoda, and one of the Pacific's higher-risk cities. Visit with a local contact or a vetted tour; do not expect independent travel, cheap prices or easy walking.
Solo travel at a glance
| Solo travel | 2/5 · Challenging solo |
|---|---|
| Locals | Polite but reserved |
| English | Widely spoken |
| Safety | 2/5 · High risk |
| Solo women | Higher risk for women, especially alone. Travel with trusted local contacts or guides, and avoid public transport and walking. |
How to meet people in Port Moresby
Mostly through work, church or expat-community events, dive operators and Kokoda trek operators. Independent solo exploring is not recommended; hire guides and drivers.
Good things to do alone
- Walk the Kokoda Track with an accredited operator
- Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery
- Dive or snorkel with a licensed operator
- Visit Varirata National Park by pre-arranged car
- See the Nature Park with a driver
Where to stay in Port Moresby
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Waigani | Government and business district with secure hotels |
| Town | Hotels, restaurants and the harbour; take taxis only |
| Boroko | Shopping hub and some guesthouses; take care |
| Touaguba–Konedobu | Expats and secured compounds near the center |
Quick answers
Is Port Moresby good for solo travelers?
Challenging solo (2/5). Papua New Guinea's capital and gateway to Kokoda, and one of the Pacific's higher-risk cities.
How do you meet people in Port Moresby?
Mostly through work, church or expat-community events, dive operators and Kokoda trek operators. Independent solo exploring is not recommended; hire guides and drivers. On SoloSquare you can also join small plans with other travelers who are there now.
Do people speak English in Port Moresby?
Widely spoken.
Is Port Moresby safe for solo female travelers?
Higher risk for women, especially alone. Travel with trusted local contacts or guides, and avoid public transport and walking.
More about Port Moresby
Going to Port Moresby solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Port Moresby meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.