Port Moresby (population 145,000) is the dry dusty capital of PNG. It is located on a beautiful natural harbour on the southern coast of the Island with many hills offering spectacular views of the coast.

It is a city of two stories. Port Moresby does suffer from an image problem with frequent news reports of crime and rascal gangs and houses surrounded by razor wire and guard dogs. The other Port Moresby is a laid-back, fascinating place with cosmopolitan markets, the smell of frangipani, tropical islands and interesting villages.

Some of the attractions are - Parliament House (built in traditional Maprik haus tambaran or spirit-house style); the local markets at Gordons and Koki selling traditional produce and fresh fish; theNational Museum & Art Gallery; Idler's Bay and Local Island with beautiful reefs and white, sandy beaches.

Other excursions out from the city are the spectacular Rouna Falls to the north and nearby Varirata National Park, the first national park in PNG. Crystal Rapids and Brown River are popular spots for swimming, rafting and picnics. The famous Kokoda Trail, which links the northern and southern coasts, starts at Sogeri and is a very challenging walking track. It was the site of fierce fighting between the Japanese and Allied forces in WWII and can take up to a week to traverse in good weather.

Local Children