Is Papua New Guinea Safe to Travel to in 2026?
Risk level: Extreme risk
Last updated
Overview
One of the most dangerous countries in the world for travelers. High levels of violent crime, tribal conflict, kidnapping, and carjackings make independent travel extremely risky. Tribes will have shoot-outs (usually with bows) mid-day in the streets.
Best time to visit
Drier months roughly May to October in many areas; rains and local conditions vary a lot by region.
Safety
Extremely high risk. Violent crime, armed robbery, and kidnapping are common. Tribal fighting occurs in many rural areas. Carjackings and express kidnappings are frequent, even in daylight. Police presence is limited and often ineffective.
Recommendations
Do not travel to Papua New Guinea unless absolutely necessary. If you must go, only visit with professional security and stick to heavily secured tourist areas. Avoid Port Moresby and the Highlands entirely.
Health and tap water
Tap water: Not recommended — use bottled or filtered water.
Very limited healthcare infrastructure. High risk of malaria and other tropical diseases. Medical evacuation is usually required for serious issues.
Entry and exit
Visa required. Travel is strongly discouraged by most governments.
Laws
Rule of law is weak in many areas. Corruption is widespread. Foreigners have been kidnapped and killed.
Other notes
Papua New Guinea has incredible cultural and natural diversity, but the security situation makes it one of the most difficult and dangerous countries to visit. Tourism is extremely limited and usually requires armed security. The country is not suitable for independent or casual travel.
Emergency numbers: Police 112, Ambulance 112, Fire 112.
Regional risk notes for Papua New Guinea
- National Capital District (Port Moresby) — Extreme risk: Capital city. Extremely high rates of violent crime, carjackings, and kidnapping. Very dangerous even during the day.
- Hela Province — Extreme risk: High levels of tribal fighting and armed violence. One of the most dangerous provinces.
- Southern Highlands Province — Extreme risk: Frequent tribal warfare and armed conflict. Very high risk.
- Enga Province — Extreme risk: Significant tribal fighting and criminal activity. Extremely dangerous.
- Western Highlands Province — Extreme risk: Ongoing tribal conflict and high violent crime rates.
- Morobe Province — Extreme risk: High crime and some tribal tensions. Lae city is particularly dangerous.
- Madang Province — High risk: Significant crime and occasional tribal violence. High risk for travelers.
- East Sepik Province — Extreme risk: Remote with limited state control. High risk of crime and tribal issues.
- Milne Bay Province — High risk: Some tourist activity but still high risk of crime and violence.
- East New Britain Province — Extreme risk: Includes Rabaul. Some tourism but significant crime and instability.
- Autonomous Region of Bougainville — High risk: History of conflict. Ongoing tensions and high risk of violence.
- Other provinces — Extreme risk: Most of Papua New Guinea is affected by high levels of violent crime, tribal fighting, or weak state control. Travel is not recommended in any region without heavy security.
Independent assessment — not a government advisory. Feedback: [email protected]