International Car Travel Routes

Popular driving routes in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea is a country in Oceania, occupying the eastern part of the island of New Guinea as well as a number of adjacent islands. It is one of the most culturally diverse places on the planet, with over 800 languages. The country is known for its tribal traditions, flower festivals, dense rainforests and unique flora and fauna.

Papua New Guinea is known for its challenging trails and few roads, which can limit road trips. Nevertheless, here are some interesting destinations to visit by car:

Highlands Highway: This is the main road through the central mountainous areas of the country. You can see amazing mountain scenery and experience the traditional culture of the hill tribes.
Queen's Highway Coast: Driving along the coast, you can appreciate the beauty of the tropical beaches and perhaps see traditional villages.

Lae-Mendi: If you head south from Lae town, you will reach Mendi, a central town in the Southern Mountains where you can explore local traditions and culture.

Kokoda Track Road: Although this is mainly a walking route, its starting points can be accessed by car. This place is known for its World War II history and beautiful landscapes.

Port Moresby and the surrounding area: There are several accessible roads in and around the capital city that can be used for short trips to see local parks and beaches.

It is important to keep in mind that many roads in PNG are not paved and can become impassable in bad weather. It is best to plan travel during the dry season and always be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to use the services of local guides or tour companies that are familiar with local conditions.
Roads in PNG can be a challenge for drivers, especially outside of urban areas. Most roads are not paved and can be in poor condition, especially during the rainy season when they become muddy and slippery. The country also has many unimproved bridges and rivers that have to be crossed ford or by ferry.

In terms of traffic regulations, Papua New Guinea, like Australia, is left-hand drive. Drivers are required to carry a driver's license, and it is recommended to have an international driver's license to facilitate interaction with local authorities if necessary. Speed limits and road rules may not always be clearly marked, so it is important to take extra care and attention.

It is also important to remember that road travel in PNG requires careful planning and preparation. It is advisable to have an adequate supply of fuel, water, food and spare parts, as well as communication equipment, as there is no cell phone service in many areas. Drivers should avoid traveling at night and always be prepared for unexpected changes in weather and road conditions.