Under $100: Port Moresby

Papua New Guinea is not a big tourist destination, but it’s known around the world for its untouched beauty and adventure travel. Its capital is surrounded by jungles, villages, mountains and miles of picturesque trails to hike. With 300 PGK to spend, here’s how to enjoy a day in Moresby before setting out on the Kokoda Trail.

Before visiting this country, one must know the major cities have a high rate of crime, and can be dangerous for solo travelers, especially women. For men, getting around is best done in a mini-bus, locally called Public Motor Vehicles. The PMVs are cheap, crowded and drive on a set route, though locals will be happy to help you out. For female travelers, try to arrange pick-ups and drop-offs with your hotel, or better yet, get a personal driver for the day as taxi safety is not reliable.

The Ela Beach Craft Market is a great place to pick up some souvenirs for home. Since Papua New Guinea isn’t really a tourism hub, you’ll find plenty of authentic paintings, weavings, pottery and even kotekas, otherwise known as penis gourds worn by tribes of the New Guinea highlands. You can also try some classic Moresby barbecue for an early lunch while watching traditional Goroka dancers. There is also PNG Art, a warehouse containing an immense collection of cultural artifacts, all of which are available for purchase. The New York Times said it was, “like walking though a museum and being allowed to buy anything you like.”

Goroka Tribesman © Marcovarro | Dreamstime

To get a taste of the wild that lies outside the city, take a visit to Port Moresby Nature Park, which captures a slice of the outlying fauna for less adventurous travelers. More than 150 animals are on display here, including tree kangaroos, cassowaries, alligators and more.

As the sun begins to set, your dinner might best be enjoyed at your hotel, as the city can be unsafe once the day is over, and quite frankly it doesn’t really offer much of a nightlife.