Papua New Guinea Global Health Insurance / Travel Advice

Papua New Guinea Travel Advice

• There is a serious risk of Cholera throughout Papua New Guinea, especially in East Sepik, Madang, Morobe, and the Eastern Highlands.

• There is a low threat from terrorism in Papua New Guinea, however, please be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

• There is a low threat of terrorism in Papua New Guinea. However, there remains a global terrorism threat which could potentially target places frequented by tourists and expatriates.

• Crime is an endemic issue throughout Papua New Guinea, particularly in the capital city, Port Moresby. Armed car jackings are increasingly common, as are robberies; robberies have been known to occur inside popular restaurants and bars by perpetrators who are frequently armed with guns or knives.

• Rape and Gang Rape are serious problems throughout Papua New Guinea. Females should avoid going out after nightfall alone, but all travel after dark is strongly discouraged. Avoid squatter settlements and shanty towns, do not involve yourself in public protests or disputes, and keep all valuables in a safe at your residence.

• Tribal fighting is a continuing issue, and conflicts have been known to break out sporadically in the Highlands Provinces and in the capital. You are advised to listen to local media for updates.

• Papua New Guinea experiences a violent tropical storm season from November to May. Travel during this time may be severely stifled due to the conditions of many of the rural roads throughout the country. Heavy rains may cause flooding in low lying areas.

• It is advised that travelers avoid utilizing public buses known as PMVs. Despite the fact that many PMVs are considered not roadworthy, there have been a number of incidents of armed hold ups of these vehicles. Incidents of rape have also been reported on Port Moresby PMV’s.

• If you plan on using a taxi service while in the country you should agree on a fare with the driver prior to entering the vehicle, irrespective of whether the vehicle has a meter or not. Taxis in Papua New Guinea are often poorly maintained; you should check with your hotel or guesthouse as to the reputation of the taxi service you plan on using.

• Travelers who plan on trekking while in the country are advised to contact a reputable trail guide service. There have been cases of robberies and serious attacks at both ends of the Kokoda trail and you should take steps to protect yourself. In addition to this, there remain a large number of unexploded WWII ordinance throughout the country’s jungle.

• Bougainville has recently emerged from a period of separatist conflict. In order to travel to this region you should inform the Bougainville Provincial Administration prior to your journey, and check in with the Administration immediately upon arrival. A large “No-Go-Zone” exists in Bougainville around the Panguna Mine.

• Narcotics are illegal in Papua New Guinea. Being found in possession of narcotic substances, including Marijuana, may mean a prison sentence.

• Homosexual acts are illegal in Papua New Guinea.

• Certain nationalities may require a visa in order to enter Papua New Guinea. Please contact a representative of your home government prior to departure to enquire about visa requirements.

Papua New Guinea Global Health Insurance

If you are traveling or working as an expat in Papua New Guinea, global health insurance plans that Globalsurance works with can provide you with some of the most extensive health insurance coverage you can find. For more information about Papua New Guinea, global health insurance plans we can offer, or to receive a free comprehensive global health insurance quote, please contact us one of our expert representatives today.