If any destination induces FOMO (fear of missing out) it’s Papua New Guinea. The island is huge. It boasts 5,150km of coastline, more than 600 islands, few roads, and a thousand cultural clans. All of which logistically makes it impossible in terms of time to do anything else but scratch the surface of a destination requiring a flight halfway around the world.
For first-timers an organized two-week tour offers a gentle introduction to its highlights. Typically a week will be spent in the Highlands birdwatching and enjoying cultural encounters and sing-sings and then down to the lowlands to marvel at the crocodile cult pursued by the river dwellers of the Sepik.
However, travellers are increasingly looking at PNG as a destination to pursue specific activities: from diving and cruises to trekking and nature-quests. A growing number of specialist operators can facilitate this with logistical support and guiding services. Although more independently minded travellers should come prepared with necessary specialised equipment plus sufficient resources as travelling around the Highlands and islands does not come cheap.