Official NameIndependent State of Papua New Guinea
CapitalPort Moresby
Population11.8 million
Area462,840 km² (178,703 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, Hiri Motu, Tok Pisin
CurrencyPapua New Guinean kina (K)
TimezoneUTC+10:00
RegionOceania / Melanesia
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$4,875 (2024)
Inflation Rate0.6% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$85 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend8.6% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)0.8% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of transportation in Papua New Guinea varies greatly depending on the mode of transport, with a monthly transit pass costing around $30 USD and a taxi start rate of $5 USD.
Quick Facts
Monthly Transit Pass($30 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($5 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.20 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(Yes — Grab, PMV)
CurrencyPGK
Getting Around Overview
Papua New Guinea has a limited but developing transportation network, with most people relying on public motor vehicles (PMVs), which are privately owned buses and minivans that operate on fixed routes. The quality of public transit varies greatly between cities, with Port Moresby having a more extensive network than other urban areas. However, the lack of a comprehensive public transportation system means that many people rely on walking or cycling for short trips, while others use taxis or ride-hailing services for longer journeys.
The country's rugged terrain and limited infrastructure make it challenging to develop a comprehensive transportation network. However, efforts are being made to improve the road network and expand public transportation services. In the meantime, visitors and locals alike must be prepared for varying levels of service quality and costs depending on the location and mode of transport. For example, in Port Moresby, the capital city, there are several bus companies that operate on fixed routes, while in other cities, minibuses and taxis are more commonly used.
Public Transportation
Transport Type
Single Fare (USD)
Monthly Pass (USD)
Notes
City Bus
$0.50-$1.00
$20-$30
Limited coverage, variable quality
Metro / Subway
N/A
N/A
Not available
Minibus / Shared Taxi
$1.00-$2.00
N/A
Extensive network, variable quality
Commuter Train
N/A
N/A
Not available
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Service
Base Fare (USD)
Per km (USD)
Typical City Ride (USD)
Notes
Metered Taxi
$5.00
$1.50
$10-$20
Limited availability
Ride-Hailing App
$3.00
$1.00
$8-$15
Grab, PMV available
Airport Transfer
N/A
N/A
$20-$30
To city center, variable prices
Fuel & Driving Costs
Item
Cost (USD)
Notes
Gasoline (per liter)
$1.20
Diesel (per liter)
$1.10
Car Rental (per day)
$60-$100
Economy car, variable prices
Parking (per hour, city)
$1.00-$2.00
Limited availability
Toll Roads (typical)
$2.00-$5.00
Limited network, variable prices
Intercity & Long-Distance
Route Type
Cost Range (USD)
Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)
$10-$30
Limited availability, variable quality
Domestic Flight
$100-$300
Typical route, variable prices
Train (long-distance)
N/A
Not available
Transport Tips
To save money on transport, consider using public motor vehicles (PMVs) or minibuses, which are often cheaper than taxis or ride-hailing services.
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PMV to book taxis or private cars, which can be more convenient and safer than hailing on the street.
Always negotiate the fare before starting a journey, especially when using taxis or PMVs.
Be aware of safety concerns, such as traffic accidents and petty crime, and take necessary precautions to stay safe while traveling.
Consider renting a car for longer trips or to explore rural areas, but be aware of the variable road conditions and limited infrastructure.
Use local currency (PGK) when possible, as not all businesses accept foreign currency, and be prepared for price variations between cities and regions.