How to get to Madang

Madang is often called one of the most picturesque cities in the South Pacific. Located on the northern coast of Papua New Guinea, this resort is surrounded by turquoise waters and lush tropical greenery, creating the atmosphere of a secluded paradise.

The city is known for its deep-water harbours and numerous lagoons, making it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. Diving in Madang is considered some of the best in the region: here you can see not only colourful coral reefs but also sunken ships from the Second World War. Beyond underwater beauty, travelers are attracted by cozy parks, views of volcanic islands, and the distinctive culture of the local inhabitants.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the resort is by plane. Unlike many remote corners of the country, it has its own air gateway — Madang Airport (MAG), located just a few kilometres from the city centre, which eliminates the need for long ground transfers.

Since the airport primarily serves domestic airlines, travelers from abroad typically require a transfer. The main transit hub is Port Moresby, from where regular flights to Madang operate. The flight over the picturesque landscapes of Papua New Guinea takes about an hour and offers the opportunity to see the island's beauty from a bird's-eye view.

Planning a trip to Madang by train is not feasible, as the city lacks a railway station. Due to the complex mountainous terrain and dense jungles, passenger rail service in Papua New Guinea is practically undeveloped, and this mode of transport is unavailable to tourists.

Even in neighboring major cities, you will not find an operating station, as the railway network here does not connect major settlements. Therefore, looking for train tickets to nearby points such as Goroka, Mount Hagen, or Lae is pointless — it is better to use a plane or road transport.

Traveling by bus or local public transport (PMV) to Madang will be a true adventure, allowing you to witness shifting landscapes from misty mountains to the tropical coast. The most popular route connects the resort with the city of Lae: covering a distance of about 320 kilometres along the Ramu Highway usually takes from 5 to 7 hours, although travel time heavily depends on road conditions and weather.

For those departing from the highlands, trips are available from Goroka, from where the scenic descent to the ocean takes approximately 8 hours. A longer and more tiring journey awaits tourists from Mount Hagen: this route, spanning over 400 kilometres, can take the entire daylight day but is compensated by breathtaking views of valleys and dense jungles.

Traveling to Madang by car allows you to see a stunning transition of natural zones, especially if the route begins in the city of Lae. The drive along the famous Ramu Highway, spanning about 320 kilometres, usually takes 5–6 hours, passing through picturesque valleys and tropical forests. For comfortable travel, it is recommended to rent a reliable SUV with a local driver, as road conditions can be unpredictable and navigation complex.

Routes from mountain regions, such as Goroka and Mount Hagen, are significantly longer and suitable for lovers of true adventure. The road from Goroka will take about 8 hours, while the journey from Mount Hagen, covering over 400 kilometres, will require a full daylight day. The cost of a private taxi for such distances is high and always negotiated individually, so many travelers prefer to coordinate and share the cost of transport rental.

A trip to Madang requires some preparation to ensure your holiday is as comfortable and pleasant as possible. We have collected practical recommendations to help you navigate local features and fully enjoy your visit to this picturesque corner of Papua New Guinea.

1. Clothing and Gear: Opt for light clothing made from natural breathable fabrics (cotton, linen), as the climate here is hot and humid. Be sure to bring a raincoat, a hat, and comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking. Please respect local customs: outside of hotel grounds and beaches, it is recommended to dress modestly and avoid overly revealing outfits.
2. Transport: The safest and most reliable way to move around the city and its surroundings is a transfer organized by your hotel or renting a car with a local driver. Public transport (PMV vans) is cheap but often overcrowded and unpredictable in terms of timing, so it is not always convenient for tourists.
3. Finance: The national currency is the Kina. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted only in major hotels, restaurants, and diving centres. For purchases at markets, souvenir shops, and payment for minor services, always carry cash, preferably in small denominations.
4. Health and Safety: The region carries a risk of malaria, so the use of repellents and wearing long-sleeved clothing in the evenings is mandatory. Drink only bottled water, avoid ice in drinks at street cafes, and always carry a basic first aid kit.
5. Communication: English is an official language and is well understood in tourist areas and government institutions. However, Tok Pisin is widely used in daily life; learning a few simple greeting phrases in it will help you establish contact with locals faster.
6. Local Etiquette: The residents of Madang are friendly but conservative. Always ask for permission before photographing a person, children, or private property. A greeting is usually accompanied by a handshake and a smile; aggressive behavior is not accepted here.
7. What to Avoid: It is not recommended to walk around the city alone after dark or enter remote residential areas without a guide. Also, avoid openly displaying expensive cameras, phones, and jewelry in crowded public places.
8. Extra Tip: If you plan to buy souvenirs, look for the famous woven "bilum" bags or wood carvings at local markets. It is best to go shopping early in the morning before the intense heat sets in and the selection of goods is at its maximum.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on the main thing — exploring the rich underwater world and the unique culture of the coast.