Where to Stay in Port Moresby
Papua New Guinea
|Pop. 284K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Port Moresby at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Port Moresby
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Always arrange transport in advance, preferably through your hotel or a reputable service. Avoid flagging down informal taxis, especially at night.
Getting Around
Given the safety concerns and spread-out nature of the city, relying on taxis or pre-arranged transport is highly advised over walking or using PMVs for tourist purposes.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by taxi drivers (always agree on fare beforehand)
Solo Female Travel
Solo female travelers should exercise extreme caution. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, and always be aware of your surroundings. Stick to reputable hotels and transport.
Hidden Gems in Port Moresby
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Bomana War Cemetery
FREEThis serene cemetery is a poignant memorial to the soldiers who fought and died in Papua New Guinea during World War II. It's a beautifully maintained and peaceful place for reflection.
Koki Market
A vibrant and bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and a true slice of Port Moresby life. It's a great place to interact with vendors and sample local snacks.
National Museum and Art Gallery
While it might seem obvious, many tourists overlook this museum which houses an incredible collection of artifacts, traditional art, and cultural exhibits that tell the story of Papua New Guinea's diverse heritage.
Royal Papua Yacht Club
This club offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning waterfront views, a favorite spot for locals to unwind. Enjoy a drink while watching the boats and soaking in the tropical ambiance.
Ela Beach
FREEMore than just a beach, Ela Beach is a popular spot for locals to exercise, socialize, and enjoy the sea breeze, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. It offers great views of the harbor.
Sir John Guise Stadium
FREEWhile primarily a sports venue, the surrounding area and upper levels of the stadium offer surprisingly good panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills, especially during off-peak hours.
What It Costs in Port Moresby
Daily budget per person in PGK
💡Similar cost to major European cities
PGK 300/day
PGK 600/day
PGK 1200/day
Where to Stay in Port Moresby
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Pros
- +Scenic ocean views and promenade
- +Proximity to key business and government areas
- +Access to restaurants and hotels
Cons
- -Can be relatively quiet at night
- -Limited public transport access
Top stays in Ela Beach
Hilton Port Moresby
$$$Modern amenities and excellent city views, located within a secure compound.
Stanley Hotel & Suites
$$$Features a rooftop pool and bar with panoramic city and harbor views.
Ela Beach Hotel & Apartments
$$A long-standing hotel with direct beach access and a popular bar.
Best for
Walk to
- Boroko Market10 min
- Local Shops5 min
Pros
- +Access to local markets and authentic food
- +More affordable accommodation and dining options
- +Central location with good transport links
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Safety requires heightened awareness, especially around markets
Top stays in Boroko
Gateway Hotel
$$Conveniently located near the airport, offering good facilities for transit travelers.
Melanesian Hotel
$$A well-established hotel with a central location and a tropical garden setting.
Lamana Hotel
$$Known for its lively atmosphere and popular casino and nightclub.
Best for
Walk to
- National Museum15 min
- Parliament House10 min
- Ela Beach20 min
Pros
- +Proximity to government and business services
- +Access to some cultural institutions
- +Generally more structured environment during business hours
Cons
- -Very quiet and deserted after business hours
- -Limited dining and entertainment options outside of business hours
Areas to be cautious
- Gerehu: Known for higher crime rates and can be chaotic, especially at night. Lacks tourist infrastructure.
- Marginal Settlements (Slums): These areas, often on the outskirts, have very limited tourist infrastructure and significant safety concerns due to poverty and associated crime.
Insider tip: Always arrange transport in advance, preferably through your hotel or a reputable service. Avoid flagging down informal taxis, especially at night.
Safety in Port Moresby
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Solo female travelers should exercise extreme caution. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, and always be aware of your surroundings. Stick to reputable hotels and transport.
At Night
Nighttime carries significant risk. Avoid being out alone, especially in poorly lit areas or away from established hotels and restaurants. Travel by pre-booked taxi or hotel transfer only.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by taxi drivers (always agree on fare beforehand)
- 2Requests for money from 'stranded tourists' or 'officials' needing assistance
- 3Distraction theft, especially in crowded markets
Getting Around Port Moresby
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxis are available (approx. 40-60 Kina, 30-45 mins depending on traffic). Pre-booked hotel transfers are recommended for reliability.
🎫
Day Pass
No official day pass system for PMVs. Single rides are cheap (approx. 2-3 Kina).
Single: PMV: 2-3 Kina. Taxi: Negotiate, expect 20-40 Kina for short trips within the city.
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededUber, Grab
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps
Public Transport
PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles) are the main form of public transport - minibuses on fixed routes. Taxis are also common but negotiate fares.
Ride-share
No major rideshare apps like Uber or Grab. Use hotel-arranged taxis or reputable private hire services.
Transport Tip
Given the safety concerns and spread-out nature of the city, relying on taxis or pre-arranged transport is highly advised over walking or using PMVs for tourist purposes.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Larger hotels, some cafes and restaurants (often requires purchase)
Coworking
Limited options. Some business centers in hotels may offer day passes (e.g., The Stanley Hotel - approx. 50-100 Kina/day).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jun, Jul, Aug
Hotels & Accommodation in Port Moresby
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Who Is Port Moresby Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Business Travelers
Offers proximity to business districts and high-quality hotels with necessary amenities.
First-Timers
Provides a more controlled environment with better hotel options and easier access to key tourist points.
Foodies
Access to local markets and a variety of smaller, more authentic eateries.
Budget Travelers
Generally offers more affordable accommodation and food options compared to other areas.
About Port Moresby
Port Moresby ( ; Tok Pisin: Pot Mosbi), also referred to as Pom City or simply Moresby, is the capital and largest city of Papua New Guinea. It is one of the largest cities in the southwestern Pacific (along with Jayapura) outside of Australia and New Zealand. It is located on the shores of the Gulf of Papua, on the south-western coast of the Papuan Peninsula of the island of New Guinea.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Moresby
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Port Moresby Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel