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Lots of scams

Melanesia

Tourist scams in Papua New Guinea

The main risks in Papua New Guinea are robbery, carjacking and occasional card fraud. Street crime is a particular concern in Port Moresby and Lae, and foreigners are sometimes targeted in Port Moresby. Arrange trusted drivers through your accommodation and get local advice before going out.
  1. 1 TheftCommonStreet mugging and robberyAttackers threaten or use force to take belongings. Muggings are common in Port Moresby, where foreigners are sometimes specifically targeted. Walking alone in Lae carries a crime risk even in busy shopping areas.Port Moresby, Lae 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonCarjackingCriminals take a vehicle by force or threats. Numerous carjackings have occurred in the Waigani area.Port Moresby 2Read
  3. 3 TaxisOccasionalRobbery linked to an untrusted taxiTaking a taxi with an unknown driver carries a genuine risk of robbery. Having your hotel arrange a reliable driver means someone knows who you left with.Port Moresby 2Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalArmed robbery on the Highlands HighwayArmed bandits make road travel on the Highlands Highway risky. Travellers may face threats and robbery during a road journey.GorokaRead
  5. 5 Cards and ATMsOccasionalCredit card fraudOccasional card fraud is reported where credit cards are accepted. The exact method is not specified.Card payments in larger shops, hotels and restaurants, including large stores in Goroka. 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Waigani traffic lights, Port MoresbyThe surrounding area has experienced numerous carjackings.
  • Area around Port Moresby Golf ClubThis part of Waigani is linked to numerous carjackings.
  • Streets and crowded shopping areas, LaeWalking alone carries a crime risk, even where shops are busy.
  • Highlands HighwayArmed bandits make road travel risky on the route described between Lae, Kainantu, Goroka and Mount Hagen.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • In Port Moresby, ask your hotel to arrange a reliable driver and note who you leave with.
  • Agree on the fare before setting off. Taxi meters are rarely used.
  • Keep a reliable driver's number for later journeys.
  • For airport collection, give your hotel your arrival time and the correct terminal.
  • In Madang, arrange both the outward ride and pickup before an evening outing. Getting transport after 6PM is very difficult.

Money

  • Carry small change for market purchases.
  • Check the exchange rate and any fees before changing money. Poor rates alone do not prove fraud.
  • Use kina for everyday spending. Foreign currencies are not accepted everywhere.
  • Keep some cash separate from your main wallet.

Cards and ATMs

  • Read ATM fee notices before confirming a withdrawal.
  • Have a backup payment method. Some international cards do not work at airport ATMs.
  • Check card payment amounts and keep receipts.
  • Cover your PIN and enable transaction alerts.
  • Use a secure ATM location and put cash away before leaving.

Your belongings

  • Keep valuables out of sight and carry only what you need.
  • Avoid walking between locations in Port Moresby.
  • Do not walk alone in Lae, even in crowded shopping areas.
  • Avoid going out after dark and ask locally about areas to avoid.

Nights out

  • Arrange a trusted driver for both parts of an evening trip.
  • Avoid people who appear drunk or aggressive.
  • In Port Moresby, hotel bars and sports club bars generally have a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • In Goroka, the DJ Bar at the Bird of Paradise Hotel may be unsafe without local friends.

Where you stay

  • Use your accommodation as a first contact for local security advice.
  • Ask staff to arrange airport transfers and reliable drivers.
  • Check how you will return to your accommodation before going out.
  • Keep copies of important documents separately from the originals.

Tours and guides

  • Ask your hotel or accommodation provider about city outings.
  • Check whether staff can accompany you or arrange a driver.
  • Get advice from someone familiar with the area before visiting an unfamiliar neighbourhood.

What travellers say about Papua New Guinea

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What is the biggest risk for a first-time visitor?

Robbery and carjacking are the main concerns, especially in Port Moresby. Arrange trusted transport and ask your accommodation about the local security situation.

How can I choose a safer taxi in Port Moresby?

Ask your hotel or a trusted friend to call a reliable driver. Make sure your hotel knows who you leave with, and keep a good driver's number.

Does an unused taxi meter mean I am being scammed?

No. Meters are rarely used in Port Moresby. Agree on the fare before leaving. Listed ordinary fares include K10–20 for short trips, K40–50 from Waigani to Ela Beach and K50–100 to the airport.

Where should I be especially careful about carjacking?

Waigani in Port Moresby has experienced numerous carjackings, particularly around the traffic lights and Port Moresby Golf Club. Ask a trusted driver about the route.

Can I walk around Lae if the streets are busy?

Do not assume crowds make walking alone safe. Crime is a concern even in crowded shopping areas. Ask whether a hotel guard can accompany you on a short walk.

Is credit card fraud a concern?

Yes. There are occasional reports, including in large stores in Goroka. Check payment amounts, keep receipts and review transaction alerts.

Are high ATM fees or poor exchange rates scams?

They do not by themselves show fraud. Some ATMs charge high fees, and money changers may offer poor rates. Check the terms before accepting.

Is the Highlands Highway safe from robbery?

Armed bandits are a stated risk. Check current local conditions with trusted contacts before a road journey and discuss transport options with your accommodation.

How should I plan an evening out in Madang?

Pre-arrange a driver to take you and collect you. Getting around after 6PM is very difficult, there are no taxis, and walking after dark is not advised.

What should I do if someone threatens me for my belongings?

Do not fight over property or make sudden movements. Reach a secure place when possible, ask for help, block affected cards and report the incident when safe.

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