Papua New Guinea
Summary
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to Hela and Southern Highlands provinces because of ongoing tribal fighting.
COVID-19 entry restrictions for Papua New Guinea
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Papua New Guinea’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
Travelling from and returning to the UK
Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting. If you will pass through a red list country, book your hotel quarantine package before travelling to the UK.
If you’re planning travel to Papua New Guinea, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO guidance on foreign travel insurance.
For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.
There are high levels of tribal fighting in Hela and Southern Highlands provinces. If you’re planning to travel there, you should take greater care than usual and consider enhanced security precautions.
Outbreaks of tribal violence may occur anywhere with little warning and may escalate very quickly. You should avoid large crowds and public gatherings as they may turn violent. See Crime
There is a high level of serious and violent crime. Law and order is poor or very poor in many parts of the country. Pay close attention to your personal security, particularly after dark, and monitor the media for possible new security risks. See Crime and Local travel
Carjacking is an ever present threat, particularly in Port Moresby and Lae. Lock car doors and keep windows up at all times. If possible travel in convoy or with a security escort after dark. See Crime
UK health authorities have classified Papua New Guinea as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.
Papua New Guinea is prone to seasonal natural disasters including tropical cyclones and flash flooding. Monitor the latest weather reports. See Natural disasters
Monsoon season in Papua New Guinea runs from November to May. This could lead to flooding and landslides. See Natural disasters
Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Papua New Guinea, attacks cannot be ruled out. See Terrorism
If you need consular support, contact the British High Commission in Port Moresby.
Consular support is limited outside of Port Moresby.