Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a uniquely diverse country occupying the eastern half of New Guinea Island, one of the largest in the South Pacific, and more than 600 smaller islands south of the equator. The western portion of the island is Indonesia's Irian Jaya. Volcanic activity is common in the Owen Stanley Range, an east-west mountain range with peaks over 3,999 meters (13,120 feet). Seismic and tsunami activities also occur. Tropical rainforests cover three-quarters of the country, with delta plains, mangrove swamps and savanna occupying the remainder.
The tropical weather and climate is generally hot, humid and wet with the mountainous regions experiencing colder temperatures.
The country is untamed and exotic with a wide variance in climate and terrain. The first inhabitants are believed to have migrated from Southeast Asia 50,000 years ago. Unique communities have evolved in mountain and island isolation, unknown to one another until recently. Each isolated settlement has its own culture and language with over 700 languages spoken in the country. English is the official language with Pidgin (Tok Pisin) and Motu the more popular alternatives. The geographic isolation, along with unusual and amazing flora and fauna, attracts interest among explorers, naturalists, anthropologists and intrepid travelers. It has also fostered national division in the form of tribal conflict.
Independent since 1975, Papua New Guinea is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy led by the Queen of England, represented by a Governor General elected by Parliament. Elected governments have had difficulty remaining in office for a five-year term because of political instability, disagreement among numerous parties and no-confidence votes. A cease-fire truce remains in effect since the 1998 Bougainville Island rebellion as leaders work toward provincial government elections under United Nations and regional peace monitoring observation.
Flights arrive at Port Moresby's Jackson International Airport from Australia, Singapore, Guam, Honiara (Solomon Islands) and Jayapura (Irian Jaya, Indonesia). Numerous airlines provide service to the country. Although fairly expensive, air travel within the country is the safest and most efficient way to reach remote regions. The official currency of Papua New Guinea is the kina (PGK), comprised of 100 toea. Cash will be required for travel to remote areas; credit cards are not widely accepted and ATMs are not readily available. Bargaining and tipping are not customary. Telephone service is adequate and cellular access is available. Internet, television and radio services are limited but adequate.
The traditional fishing and farming subsistence economy and a gradual population drift toward Port Moresby, and other urban areas like Lae, Madang, Goroka and Mount Hagen, exacerbate social problems such as unemployment, auto theft, petty and violent crime. Walking at night, even in groups, is dangerous. Arrange all transportation through your hotel. Women should dress conservatively and remain especially vigilant. "Rascal gangs" operate in the capital city of Port Moresby and other urban centers.
Violent and petty crimes are common in urban and rural areas. Travelers to Papua New Guinea are urged to exercise extreme caution and travel in organized tour groups whenever possible. Bandits operate highway roadblocks. Community clan wars are prominent in the Highlands.
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