Is Port Moresby Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

As a solo female traveler in Port Moresby, you may face certain safety concerns. While it's not impossible to travel safely, it requires caution, preparation, and vigilance. Street crime, pickpocketing, and carjacking are common, especially at night. Women particularly should be careful in isolated areas or when travelling alone. It's strongly encouraged to use hotel shuttles or prearranged transportation, avoid walking alone after dusk, and always be aware of your surroundings. Regular safety measures and precautions that you'd take in any other place should be amplified in this region.

Safety rating

1.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Port Moresby?

Safety at night:Very unsafe

Port Moresby, at night is rated as substantially unsafe. There is a high rate of crime, with frequent occurrence of serious offences like armed robbery, assault, and carjacking, which often targets foreigners. Walking alone at night is highly discouraged due to the heightened risk of such crimes. It is advised to always travel in groups after darkness and arrange for transportation ahead of time, if possible.

Public transportation:Unsafe

Public transportation in Port Moresby, can be challenging. Buses, known locally as PMVs, often lack safety measures and are sometimes targets for petty criminals. For these reasons, they are not generally recommended for solo female travelers. Like in any new environment, it's crucial to stay attentive and follow local advice, particularly from trustworthy sources.

Street harassment:High

Street harassment in Port Moresby is relatively high. Women, especially solo travelers, often face verbal harassment and there are reports of occasional physical harassment. Remaining vigilant and avoiding certain areas at night can minimize such instances. Always advisable to travel in groups when possible and be mindful of local customs and attire.

Petty crimes:Very high

Petty crimes in Port Moresby, are particularly prevalent. Bag snatching, pickpocketing and purse-snatching are common, especially in crowded places. Travelers are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, so it's important to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuable possessions and try to blend in with the locals as much as possible.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Port Moresby is generally not recommended for drinking. It may not be adequately treated and could contain potentially harmful bacteria or parasites. When traveling in Port Moresby, it's safer to opt for bottled water or boil tap water before consumption.

Is Port Moresby safe to travel?

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Is Port Moresby safe right now?

Before your visit to Port Moresby, it's essential to check travel advisories for Papua New Guinea, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

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United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The United States Government advises to reconsider travel to Papua New Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and piracy. It suggests exercising increased caution because of incidents related to kidnapping, unexploded ordnance, inconsistent availability of healthcare services, and potential natural disasters. Some areas entail an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: January 17, 2024

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Canada's Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The Canadian Government advises avoiding non-essential travel to Papua New Guinea due to high levels of crime, inter-ethnic violence, and civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 6, 2024

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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Papua New Guinea overall, due to high levels of serious crime. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 14, 2024