Papua New Guinea Islands
Enchanting, thrilling & deeply rooted in tradition and spirit
Step into a tropical paradise where lush mountains rise from crystal-clear seas, and vibrant coral gardens flourish below. With over 5,000 kilometres of pristine coastline and powder-white beaches, the Papua New Guinea Islands offer a rare kind of adventure - raw, authentic, and utterly unforgettable.
Beyond the natural wonders, a rich cultural experience awaits. Connect with island communities and witness extraordinary traditions firsthand - from the hypnotic Bainings Firedance to the vibrant pageantry of the Rabaul Mask’s. These are not just moments; they are memories that last a lifetime.
New Britain Island played a pivotal role in World War II, with Rabaul serving as a major Japanese naval and air base. Today, you can explore Admiral Yamamoto’s command bunker, the Rabaul Historical Society Museum, and Bitapaka War Cemetery. Rabaul was largely destroyed by the 1994 twin eruptions of Mount Tavurvur and Mount Vulcan, prompting the relocation of the provincial capital to Kokopo, just 20 km away.
Further northeast, New Ireland and Kavieng also hold echoes of wartime history. Captured early in the war, the area is now known for easily accessible wreck dives and relics, including plane wrecks in shallow waters perfect for snorkelling.
Together, the region offers a striking blend of WWII history, living culture, and dramatic landscapes - where stories of resilience and tradition unfold side by side.
Melanesian Journeys curates bespoke experiences for discerning travellers – explore untouched coral reefs, uncover poignant WWII history, enjoy exhilarating deep-sea fishing, and connect with island cultures through meaningful encounters and powerful traditions.
Let us take you off the map and guide you through this extraordinary paradise.
Activities
The PNG Islands promise unforgettable adventures for every traveler:
WWII History & Relics
Snorkelling
Diving
Fishing
Private Yacht Charters
Exclusive cultural experiences, like the Baining Fire Dance, or the Rabaul Mask Festival
We have handpicked the best available lodges in each area of the Papua New Guinea Islands.
Tour guest accommodation in this area are neat, tidy, and comfortable.
While some areas may be remote, this is deliberate, as we want to provide you with the most amazing authentic experiences possible during your stay.
Accommodation
Navigating the Islands
Travelling to the Papua New Guinea Islands is easy as it is via a direct flight from Port Moresby Airport.
Once you arrive, depending on your tour preferences, you can either travel via short domestic fights to quickly connect you to the Islands or, for those after a slower laid back pace, cruises and yachts are a fantastic way to navigate around and take in all the beauty of the Islands.
Baining Fire Dance
In the village of Gaulim, experience the incredible Baining Fire Dance, where masked "spirit men" perform daring dances through flames. This intense and captivating ritual, held at night, celebrates births, honors the passing of loved ones, and initiates young men into adulthood. It’s one of the most remarkable cultural performances in Papua New Guinea, and Melanesian Journeys offers exclusive, private shows for guests seeking a truly unforgettable experience.
Rabaul Mask Experience
The Rabaul Mask experience is a vibrant celebration of Papua New Guinea's rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional mask dances, music, and performances that showcase the diverse customs and spiritual beliefs of the region's indigenous communities.
