Travel Vaccines and Advice for Papua New Guinea

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Papua New Guinea. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Papua New Guinea: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Japanese encephalitis is a threat to travellers to various parts of Papua New Guinea. The best protection is through vaccination.

Malaria and dengue are two other common mosquito-borne diseases found in the country. Make sure you’re protected by using mosquito-netting and insect repellents. Antimalarials may also be recommended depending on your itinerary.

You will need to take medication before, during, and after you trip to Papua New Guinea, as there is risk of contracting the disease year-round.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.

Papua New Guinea does require a visa for entry. This can be obtained upon arrival. But, it is better to have your visa processed and ready before you leave for your trip.

Papua New Guinea Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Papua New Guinea?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Papua New Guinea and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Travellers need a valid passport that will remain valid at least six months after the date of arrival in Papua New Guinea.

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

The climate of Papua New Guinea is tropical. Coastal areas are in the 20’s and the inland and mountain regions average are a bit warmer. The humidity is quite high as well, due to consistent rainfall.

The rainy seasons in Papua New Guinea are erratic. The country experiences typhoons on a somewhat regular basis. The typhoons are most likely to occur between December and mid-March. This is generally regarded as the rainy season, with June to September being the dry season. Weather can vary based on typhoon activity.

It is rainiest in the western and northern parts of the island.

Due to high unemployment on the island, there street gangs are common in Port Moresby. Before taking a tour, it be aware of the safety level of the area. Do not travel outside after dark, and refrain from openly handling money in public areas.

Saltwater crocodiles are a daily threat in Papua New Guinea. They can grow to be quite large, and may attack and consume humans unprovoked. It is best to avoid them completely. The same warning applies to areas of volcanic activity.

If travelling to the mountainous regions, be aware of poor road conditions. Avoid villages in the mountainous regions, as tribal warfare is unpredictable can happen at any time.

If swimming off the coast of the island, be aware of shark activity. Sharks are abundant in the Pacific Ocean. Observe where locals are avoiding swimming areas, and follow suit.

There is quite a bit to see in Papua New Guinea from the air. Many tourists take a small plane around some of the island’s more remote airstrips. While not particularly safe, these trips are thrilling and usually inexpensive.

There are generally no safety regulations when it comes to the airstrips in Papua New Guinea. Many can sometimes be in poor condition. Be sure to consult with your pilot before making any sudden landings.

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Papua New Guinea:

• Breathable Clothing — The climate is often hot and humid. Wear clothing that is not too thick, and that you would mind getting wet.
• Proof of Return Ticket – Travellers will not be allowed to enter the country without proof of a return ticket. Make sure you have this on hand upon entrance.
• Basic Health Supplies – Supplies like bandages and aspirin can be hard to come by, so be sure to pack them.
• Life Insurance – Especially important to invest in before your trip, especially if you are planning on flight-seeing.
• Rain Gear – Depending on when you visit, there is a good chance you will be experiencing rainfall.

Canada has no resident office in Papua New Guinea. Consular assistance may be received from the High Commission of Australia in Port Moresby under the Canada – Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.

Australian High Commission – Papua New Guinea
Godwit Road, Waigani NCD,
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Telephone: (675) 7090 0100

If you have any questions about travelling to Papua New Guinea or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today!