The United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand have all issued heightened travel advisories for Papua New Guinea, with crime rates and civil unrest reaching concerning levels in early 2026.

Is Papua New Guinea Safe to Travel to in 2026?

Papua New Guinea presents significant safety challenges for travellers in 2026. The US State Department maintains a Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" advisory, whilst Canada's government advises avoiding non-essential travel entirely. Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs continues to recommend exercising "a high degree of caution" due to high levels of crime, tribal violence and civil unrest, according to Smartraveller.

The security situation has deteriorated sufficiently that US government employees require authorisation before travelling to certain areas, including the central part of Bougainville Island. New Zealand's SafeTravel service notes "more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand."

The Current Situation

Inter-ethnic violence has intensified across multiple provinces in recent months. Tribal conflicts, particularly in the Highlands region, have displaced thousands of residents and created no-go zones for outsiders. The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary reports being stretched thin across the country's 462,840 square kilometres.

Civil unrest has erupted sporadically in urban centres, with Port Moresby experiencing several security incidents since January 2026. The Canadian government specifically cites "high levels of crime, inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest" as primary concerns for travellers.

Piracy remains active in coastal waters, particularly around the Torres Strait and in approaches to major ports. Maritime security incidents have increased 23% compared to 2025 levels, according to regional shipping authorities.

Regional Safety Breakdown

Port Moresby and National Capital District: Armed robberies target both locals and foreigners. Gerehu, Erima, and Saraga suburbs present particularly high risks. The downtown area becomes unsafe after dark.

Western Highlands Province: Mount Hagen and surrounding areas experience frequent tribal warfare. Road travel between settlements requires security escorts. Several international NGOs have suspended operations in the region.

Morobe Province: Lae, the country's second-largest city, sees regular carjackings and break-ins. The Highlands Highway connecting Lae to the interior remains hazardous due to armed holdups.

Bougainville: The autonomous region faces ongoing tensions despite the 2019 independence referendum. US government employees need special authorisation for the central region. Unexploded ordnance from past conflicts poses additional risks.

Southern Highlands: Mendi and Tari districts experience frequent violence between competing groups. Commercial flights to the region operate irregularly due to security concerns.

Coastal areas: Piracy affects waters around Daru, Kerema and Vanimo. Fishing vessels and cargo ships report harassment and boarding attempts.

Crime & Safety

Violent crime affects all areas of Papua New Guinea. Armed robbery, sexual assault, and carjacking occur regularly in urban centres. Criminals often target expatriates and tourists, viewing them as wealthy targets. Home invasions have increased 34% in Port Moresby since 2025, according to police statistics.

Gang activity centres around settlements and urban peripheries. Raskol gangs, some numbering hundreds of members, control territory in major cities. These groups engage in robbery, extortion, and drug trafficking.

Sexual violence presents serious risks, particularly for women travelling alone. The Australian government specifically warns female travellers to exercise extreme caution. Hotel security varies dramatically, with many establishments lacking adequate protection.

Kidnapping for ransom has emerged as a growing threat. Three foreign nationals were abducted in 2025, with two cases involving ransom demands exceeding $100,000. Business executives and aid workers face elevated risks.

Road travel presents multiple dangers beyond crime. The Highlands Highway sees regular holdups, with armed groups blocking traffic to rob passengers. Vehicle condition and driver competence vary wildly outside main centres.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

British nationals require a visa for Papua New Guinea, obtainable on arrival for stays up to 30 days. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travellers from infected areas. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office recommends comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage.

Health risks include malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Medical facilities outside Port Moresby and Lae are extremely limited. Serious medical emergencies require evacuation to Australia, costing upwards of £50,000.

Natural disasters pose additional concerns. Papua New Guinea sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiencing frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Cyclone season runs from December through April, affecting coastal regions and islands.

Infrastructure remains underdeveloped. Power outages occur daily in most areas. Internet connectivity is sporadic outside major centres. Banking services are limited, with ATMs frequently out of service.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Essential travel should proceed only with robust security arrangements. Hire reputable local security companies for transportation and accommodation advice. Maintain regular contact with your embassy or high commission.

Register with your government's travel registration service before departure. Share detailed itineraries with family members and employers. Carry emergency communication devices where mobile coverage is unreliable.

Avoid demonstrations, large gatherings, and areas of tribal tension. Stay in accommodation with adequate security measures. Travel in groups during daylight hours only. Keep low profiles and avoid displaying valuables or expensive equipment.

Obtain comprehensive insurance covering kidnapping, ransom, and emergency evacuation. Verify coverage includes Papua New Guinea, as some policies exclude high-risk destinations.

Consider postponing non-essential travel until security conditions improve. Monitor government travel advisories daily, as situations change rapidly. Maintain flexible departure arrangements in case of emergency evacuation.

Key Facts:

  • US State Department maintains Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" advisory as of March 2026
  • Canada advises avoiding all non-essential travel due to crime and civil unrest
  • Armed robberies in Port Moresby increased 34% compared to 2025 levels
  • US government employees require authorisation for travel to central Bougainville