“Many worlds in one world” is an apt description for the little island nation of Papua New Guinea. The country has diverse and magnificent scenery with the ocean, mountains, different forests, savannahs, sub-alpine grasslands, and more dotting the landscape. This is one of the main reasons why tourists flock to this beautiful nation.
Papua New Guinea is among the world’s most heterogeneous nations, and also among the most rural. Only about 13% of its population lives in the cities. There are more than 840 known languages spoken in the country. Researchers believe that there still are indigenous tribes and species of flora and fauna in the interiors of Papua New Guinea that are waiting to be discovered.
If you’re vacationing here, you’re in for a treat. But before you leave, be sure to purchase travel insurance or travel medical insurance to stay covered in case of an unexpected accident, illnesses, or injury.
Papua New Guinea Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
While traveling across Papua New Guinea would be an enjoyable experience for you, you might fall sick or suffer from injuries without notice. Such an unfortunate incident would not only ruin your vacation, but it could also cost you substantial money for treatment and/or evacuation.
To avoid such financial pressure, it’s best to opt for travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Papua New Guinea?
Getting travel medical insurance is not an entry condition for Papua New Guinea. Having said that, it certainly makes a lot of sense to have this kind of insurance. It saves you from any financial hassles while getting medical treatment there.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Papua New Guinea?
A mishap might strike you at any time during your vacation. While you can’t prevent it, you have to get treatment for it. That entails additional expenses. To avoid such expenses, buy travel medical insurance before you make the trip.
Papua New Guinea Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
An unwelcome incident like trip cancellation is usually the consequence of a last-minute emergency. Workplace exigencies, a death in the family, any disturbance at the destination, etc. are some of the common reasons for cancellation.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Papua New Guinea?
There’s the risk of you losing all the money that you paid in advance, including flight tickets and destination hotel booking. However, trip cancellation insurance can protect you from this financial loss if you have to cancel for a covered reason as listed in the certificate wording of your policy.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Papua New Guinea?
Most standard trip cancellation policies cover the most common reasons for cancellation. They can reimburse you for any prepaid, non-refundable expenses you put down in preparation for your travels. But before you buy travel insurance, do check the fine print regarding cancellation coverage clauses.
Things to Do for Travelers in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea offers different options for travelers of every type. The adventure-seekers can do a lot of serious trekking and climbing, while those looking for a quieter time can find peace in lazing around. But whatever you indulge in, a trip to this “last frontier” will be worth it.
- Scuba Diving: This is one of the most famous activities for tourists in Papua New Guinea. The nation is composed of more than 600 volcanic islands, making it an ideal activity zone for divers. The barrier reefs and coral walls make for excellent views. You can also check out the World War II wreck dive sites, where you will get to see ships, submarines, and aircraft.
- Bomana War Cemetery: A tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in action here during World War II, this is the resting place of these brave souls. There are more than 3,000 burials here. On April 25, the ANZAC Day memorial service takes in memory of the Australian and New Zealander soldiers.
- Hike to Mount Garbuna Volcano: You would need to hike through verdant forests for 3 hours to reach the foothills. You would get to see a rich variety of flora and fauna during this trek. Climb up the mountain ridge to the base of the sulfur pits. Excellent views of the landscape await you from the top of the mountain. However, make this trip only with the help of a guide.
- National Museum and Gallery: This is among the best places to get insight into the fascinating history and culture of Papua New Guinea. There are more than 25,000 archaeological artifacts here that are a treasure trove of the diverse and ancient culture of the island. There are also more than 20,000 war relics, a reminder of the turbulent World War II days.
- Rabaul Hot Springs: Papua New Guinea lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire zone. The Rabaul volcano in New Britain Island is among the active ones here. In the nearby town of Rabaul, hot springs can be found, where you can enjoy a nice and refreshing bubbling bath. From the observatory there, take in beautiful views of the Blanche Bay. The fire dances of the Baining tribe here are an added attraction.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guineans are hospitable people, and tourists are welcome to this unique and culturally diverse country. However, international travelers shouldn’t be caught off guard when it comes to adopting safety measures.
- Don’t venture out alone late at night, and avoid the deserted parts of the cities, as there are risks of purse-snatchings in such locations.
- Don’t carry too much cash or any other valuables with you. Pickpockets abound in crowded locations. Keep a close watch on your purse or backpack at such locations.
- Incidents of carjackings are not infrequent, especially in the areas outside city limits. Apart from snatching the car, these criminals can also cause you bodily harm. Stay only on the main roads, and if you feel like venturing into uncharted territory, do so only with armed escorts accompanying you.
- Papua New Guinea lies in a seismically active zone, with risks of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and possible resultant tsunamis. Pay heed to all related warnings and co-operate with the government agencies in the event of evacuations.
- Public protests and demonstrations might turn violent without notice. If such a gathering starts to form, leave the area immediately if possible.
Before You Travel to Papua New Guinea - Do This
Get yourself a pair of sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain in Papua New Guinea is either rocky or marshy.
Stay updated about the weather and political conditions there.
Buy travel medical insurance to stay protected. Enter some basic personal information, browse a wide variety of plans, and select the one that best fits the needs of your particular trip.