How to get to Lorengau

The picturesque city of Lorengau is located on Manus Island and serves as the capital of the province of the same name in Papua New Guinea. This colourful destination, surrounded by tropical greenery and the ocean, attracts travellers wishing to experience the authentic culture of the Admiralty Islands. Given its island location, Lorengau is primarily accessible by air, making the journey itself the start of an exciting adventure.

Since the city of Lorengau does not have its own airport, the air gateway for tourists is the nearby Momote Airport (MAS). It is located on the neighbouring Los Negros Island, which is connected to Manus by a road bridge, ensuring convenient access to the city.

Regular flights to this region are usually operated from the country's capital, Port Moresby. Flying remains the most reliable and fastest way to reach this part of Papua New Guinea, opening up access to the region's unique nature and culture.

In Lorengau, as on the entire island of Manus, railway services are completely absent. The difficult terrain and the specific island nature of the region have not favoured the development of this mode of transport.

Travellers planning a trip to Papua New Guinea should not rely on trains. Traditionally, light aviation and maritime transport are used here for movement between regions.

It is impossible to reach Lorengau by bus from other major cities in the country, as the city is located on an island separated from the "mainland" by the sea. Intercity bus services in the conventional sense do not exist here.

However, upon arrival on the island, you can use local minibuses known as PMVs (Public Motor Vehicles). They run between the airport, villages, and the city centre, serving as the main and affordable mode of transport for local residents.

Traveling to Lorengau by private car from other regions of Papua New Guinea is not feasible due to the lack of land connections to Manus Island. Roads exist only within the island itself.

For tourists, the most relevant option remains taking a taxi or transfer from Momote Airport to the city. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes, crossing the scenic bridge connecting Los Negros and Manus islands.

When planning a trip to this remote corner of Oceania, it is advisable to prepare in advance for the local way of life and climate. Here are some practical tips to make your visit to Lorengau more comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Gear. Choose light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, as the climate here is hot and humid. Be sure to bring a reliable raincoat or umbrella — tropical downpours can be sudden.
2. Transport. To get around the area, use local PMV minibuses or agree on a fixed price with taxi drivers in advance. Walking is pleasant in the centre, but transport is necessary for longer distances.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Kina (PGK). It is recommended to carry a sufficient supply of cash, as ATMs may not work, and cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Health. The island is in a malaria risk zone. Be sure to use repellents, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs in the evening, and consult a doctor about taking prophylactic medication before your trip.
5. Language. The official language is English, but locals more often communicate in the Creole language Tok Pisin. Knowing a couple of simple phrases in Tok Pisin will earn you respect and smiles from the locals.
6. Respect for Traditions. The population of Manus Island is conservative. Tourists should dress modestly, avoiding overly revealing clothing outside of beach areas. Always ask for permission before photographing people.
7. Safety. Avoid walking alone after dark and do not display expensive gadgets or large sums of money in crowded places.
8. Useful Details. The Lorengau market is the best place to buy fresh fruits and souvenirs. Arrive early in the morning to find the widest selection and observe local life.

Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of Manus Island without unnecessary hassle.